The Asus ZenWatch 3 is probably the most exciting Android Wear device announced in recent times, not hard considering it’s also one of the only devices announced recently. That notwithstanding the new all round smartwatch from Asus is definitely on or near the top of the currently announced Android Wear devices, and it just went up for pre-order in the USA, and considering Australia won’t be getting it for at least a few months it’s tempting to import one.
The ZenWatch has gone up for preorder on both the US Asus site and more importantly for Australia BH Photo, who ship directly to Australia. At present only the Gunmetal with Dark Brown leather strap model is available from either site. Assuming the full range eventually come to market we should also be seeing a silver and rose gold option.
How many of your hard earned Australia Dollars will you need to hand over? $302.23 + $46.66 to a total of $348.89 AUD. We have to imagine that with that RRP + GST + Australia Tax that this may well still be cheaper than buying in Australia when it does eventually become available. Remember that if you buy overseas that’s where your warranty and consumer protection lies, you’re also deflating the Australian sales which could result in a softer market response and more goodies not officially coming our way.
If you need a quick refresher on the specs check them out below.
| Key Specifications: | Asus ZenWatch 3 |
|---|---|
| Screen size | 1.39-inch |
| Screen technology | AMOLED |
| Resolution | 400 x 400 |
| PPI | 287 |
| Chipset | Snapdragon Wear 2100 |
| Core config | 1.2 GHz x 4 |
| RAM | 512MB |
| Storage | 4GB |
| MicroSD | — |
| Battery | 340 mAh |
| Charging method | Charging Dock (Magnetic) |
| Cellular | No |
| NFC | — |
| Speaker | Yes |
| Android OS | Android |
| Dimensions | 45 x 45 x 9.95 ~ 10.75 mm |
| Colours |
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| Build materials | Stainless Steel |
| Band colours |
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| Band materials |
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| Band swappable | Yes |
Overall I am very excited for the ZenWatch 3, and it is taking every fibre of my being to not click buy it now. I will at least temper my enthusiasm until we can get some hands-on time with one, or the colour I really want becomes available. We’re still not sure how the watch bands work or if there will be a range of different bands from Asus or other partners, so I’m also waiting to hear more on that. And if you were wanting the battery backup module that was announced, we all we know is it’s an option, no pricing or availability just yet.
We’ll keep watching (pun intended!) the ZenWatch 3 space and let you know if more details become available in time….
I’m not really sure what all the fuss is about with this watch. No GPS, no heart rate monitor and potentially poor battery life. I’m still looking forward to the Gear S3. When does that go on sale, by the way? If they don’t get a wriggle on they’ll miss Christmas.
Samsung fanboy much??? Also are you sure you want the gear S3, it might blow off your wrist!!!!!
Crikey, hadn’t thought of that!