BLOCKS is the world’s first modular smartwatch. Compared to our phones, smartwatches are small and have limited space inside. This means that other smartwatch companies are having to compromise on which features they to put into a tiny little device that fits around your wrist. We wanted to give that power back to you, the user, to choose what features are important just for you.
BLOCKS breaks away from compromise with a unique design. Start simply with the watchface, also known as the Core, which is a fully functioning smartwatch on its own, then add Modules into the strap to enhance functionality of your watch. You can choose ANY Modules you want and connect them together to build a smartwatch unique to you.
BLOCKS looks a lot like other smartwatches. It has a 1.4 inch, 400 x 400 pixel round AMOLED display and a Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 2100 processor. The watch itself runs a custom version of Android (not Android Wear), and can display notifications and alerts from your phone and comes preloaded with a number of other apps.
What makes the watch unusual is the strap, which is made up of a series of modules that you can snap together. Each can house a sensor, a battery, or other hardware.
A handful of modules will be available at launch, including a heart rate sensor, environment sensor, extra battery, GPS, flashlight, and programmable button. Some upcoming modules are expected to include SIM card, NFC, fingerprint, and gesture control hardware.
The idea is that you can not only buy the exact hardware you want for your watch, but also that you don’t need to use the same modules all the time.
It’s hot swappable and easily replaceable. Swap in and out any Module in seconds. You don’t need to restart the watch when you connect a Module, and it will work straight away. Easily swap in a battery Module if you notice that your smartwatch is running low on power, or connect a heart rate Module before heading to the gym.
As an open platform, BLOCKS allows other select companies or individuals to develop Modules. There can be Modules for gaming, sports, healthcare, the workplace, or even experimental ones for academic research. All this means even more choice for you.
Easily customize the appearance of your watch with removable covers to suit your taste and any occasion. Select designers or individuals would be able to build even more customizable covers for the smartwatch. 3D printed precious materials, stones such as ruby or sapphire or carved from wood, would all be possible with the open design.
Blocks Modular Smartwatch Modules:
You can pre-order a BLOCKS smartwatch plus four modules for $330. Most modules are expected to sell for around $30 to $50.
