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CES 2015: A Smartwatch Show

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If there's one product category that is more than well represented at CES 2015 that's the smartwatch, with offerings in all shapes and sizes launched by companies perhaps less known for dabbling in such technology.

Alcatel Onetouch WatchOne such example is Garmin, who revealed not one, not two, but three smartwatches. These are the Vivoactive (the company's first dedicated smartwatch), the rugged Fenix3 and the GLONASS-enabled Epix. All feature the usual email/text/social media notification features, as well as Garmin-powered navigation and a newly launched Connect IQ app store.

Meanwhile budget mobile maker Alcatel presents an affordable smartwatch-- the Onetouch Watch, a sub-€100 device previously known as the "Wave." Available in either plastic or all-metal versions, the Watch features a round 1.2-inch display and runs on proprietary software.

Another smartwatch surprise comes from Audi, who collaborated with LG to present a beefed up version of the circular-screened LG G Watch R. Still lacking an official name (as far as we know), the device can unlock the newest Audi autos via NFC and the cloud, and, most surprisingly, runs on webOS even as it pairs with Android smartphones.

VIBE BandPC maker Lenovo is also taking on smart wearables, as seen with the Vibe Band VB10-- a premium device featuring metal construction (in black, gold or white) and a curved always-on eInk display promising up to 7 days of use on a single charge. Functionality-wise it monitors steps, calories, travel distance and sleep quality, as well as display smartphone notifications via Bluetooth LE connection.

In watch-like yet technically less smart devices German connected device Withings presents a budget version of the Activité, the health tracker hidden inside an analogue watch. Dubbed the Activité Pop, the device features a silicone strap and a PVD-coated watchcase (in "azure", "shark grey" and "sand" colours) while keeping the same activity and sleep tracking features of its older sibling.

So, as seen from CES smartwatches will be just about everywhere this year. Will customers actually go for them, though? Do let us know once the above mentioned devices hit your store shelves…

Go Garmin Wearables

Go Alcatel at CES 2015

Go Audi at CES 2015

Go Lenovo at CES 2015

Go Withings Activité Pop