It looks cool too.
Polar is a familiar brand for those who like to exercise, but despite the corona crisis, many people were impressed by the release of three new outdoor smartwatches last year. maybe.
From such Polar, this time the new smart watch "Polar Grit X Pro" ($ 499.95 ~: about 56,600 yen ~), which is an evolved version of "Grit X", and the existing product "Vantage V2" (domestic price 76,780 yen ~), "Unite" (domestic price 21,780 yen) function update newly appeared. Let's check what it is.
Evolution of the Grit X: Grit X Pro
First, the new smartwatch Polar Grit X Pro features features of last year's Grit X (with details exclusive to Polar). activity indicators, performance tests, sleep tracking, navigation, and recovery data), improved durability with a sapphire glass lens, two always-on display dashboards (location, sunrise/sunset times), and routes as new navigation features. and altitude display are newly added. Battery life remains unchanged at 40 hours.
Grit X Pro comes in three colors: Nordic Copper, Black DLC, and Arctic Gold. In addition, a titanium model like the image above also appeared. The price will be $100 more, but it is said to be made of aircraft-grade titanium material that is expected to be "super" resistant. The case is 12% lighter and the band is made of extra perforated leather.
Overall, it's an update that can be expected to improve functionality rather than being innovative, but the always-on screen should be especially useful for outdoor sports.
New features in "Vantage V2"
Also, more interestingly, the Vantage V2's outdoor functions have been enhanced with a software update. Always-on screen displays altimeter, location coordinates and sunrise/sunset times. It also adds Grit X's trackback feature that allows you to plan your route using the new profile. You'll also be able to use the Vantage V2 as a heart rate sensor on gym machines and mobile apps.
As for the design, the Vantage V2 "Shift" edition is newly released, and the band part can be easily replaced. It costs $550 ($50 more than the regular V2). Existing V2 users can upgrade with a $50 "Shift Edition Bundle" (some would argue that this easy-to-swap band should have been on the Vantage V2 from the start! ). By the way, it seems that there is also a red version.
Unite also updated
Unite also comes with new red and teal colors and a software update with weekly summary, energy source details during workouts, and more at the gym. function that can be used as a heart rate sensor, etc.).
Focus on Polar's unique route
The question here is why Polar is trying to enter the outdoor field. The company says that going to new places has many health benefits, including a 13% increase in sleep and a lower average heart rate while running.
Of course, with so many wearable products out there, it could be a strategy to differentiate from other companies. After all, while the Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 are great-looking, sleek, and advanced devices, they're not exactly good enough for a few hours of poor signal on a hike. Because I can. If these flagship models are getting smarter and more engaging with casual users, it makes sense that fitness-first brands such as Garmin, Suunto and Polar will move into more niche areas. It may be a movement that can be said.
