Stark: a hybrid smartwatch for those on a budget

February 28, 2017 Marko Maslakovic Crowdfunding, Smartwatch, Wearables 2 min read

Hybrid watches are the smart bet right now for those looking to get into the wearables game. Timepieces that combine the look and functionality of a traditional watch with abilities that are evident in today’s smartwatches are expected to grow their share of the smartwatch market from 30% to 40% by 2021.

While there is certainly no shortage of devices and smartwatch manufacturers, a new project on Kickstarter called Stark is taking a novel approach. This slick looking but minimalist gadget brings all the core functionality you’d expect from a hybrid watch, for an affordable $50.

Inside the water-resistant, stainless steel casing you’ll find an accelerometer for tracking your daily activity. Although there is no heart rate monitor, the watch will dish out information on steps, calories, distance and sleep. It will also give you a nudge when you’ve been siting on the sofa for too long, allow you to set fitness goals and sync with Apple Health. There is, of course, an accompanying app that keeps tabs on your fitness and activity.

Smartphone connectivity for iOS and Android includes text, sms and calls, which presumably come through the LEDs on the face of the watch. Other features include “Anti-Lost” tech, a camera remote control and various alarms.

The best feature of all is probably the battery life. To give you more flexibility, the watch has two separate batteries. The one that powers the movement will keep going for 2 years, while the Bluetooth 4.0 smart module lasts over 4 months at a time. An extra smart module battery is provided with every watch.