Several Apple Watch models are on display. (Photo : Reuters)
More smartwatches are turning up despite the upcoming Apple Watch. Olio is entering the wearable business with its Olio Model One smartwatch.
Just like Apple, Olio is targeting consumers that want luxury accessories. The San Francisco-based company launched two collections today, including limited edition models which feature high-class materials that rival even the high-end Swiss watches.
It is no surprise that the company has come up with a smartwatch to rival the Apple Watch. Olio is composed of several employees that worked for industry giants such as Apple, Pixar, Movado, Google, Amazon, HP and even NASA.
Olio CEO and founder Steve Jacobs was formerly a head of product management at Google, Beats and Apple, according to Phone Dog.
"Olio was founded to create thoughtfully crafted products for the discerning individual who wants the latest technology, but on their own terms," said Jacobs.
The Olio Model One is the first smartwatch from the company. Interested customers can now pre-order from its first batch of 500 units.
Olio launched two different variations of the Model One: a $595 silver watch face unit, and a much more expensive $745 black watch face.
Similar to the Apple Watch, each of Olio's smartwatches are available with different-colored leather and steel link bank.
One of its main features is a streamlined notification scheme, which aims to not overload the user with tons of notifications at any given time. The Olio Model One adjusts its notifications as it learns from the user over time, according to Geek Wire.
Another feature it boasts is its Olio Assist, which is a cloud-powered digital assistant that provides the users with suggestions depending on the user's preferences.
The Olio Model One also has its Control Hub feature that allows the user to make payments, adjust connected lights, thermostats, speakers and more. It also allows the user to sync with any Apple device such as an iPhone, iPad, MacBook Air, and any Android smartphone.
