Amazon To Focus On Wearables With A Dedicated Online Store

Amazon.com, the world’s largest online retailer, has launched a dedicated store for wearable technology that already features more than 100 devices.

They include activity trackers, smartwatches, smart glasses, heart rate and blood pressure monitors and wearable cameras. Users can also pre-order some of the more unusual items, like the wireless charging trousers created by London-based designer Adrien Sauvage in partnership with Microsoft.

“The advances in wearable technology mean that customers can now charge their phone through their clothing, monitor their sleep patterns and even track their pets,” commented Xavier Garambois, vice president of EU Retail at Amazon.

Wear me

“This new store allows customers to find whatever they are looking for in one place – whether that is tracking fitness, staying connected through smart watches or capturing every adventure with wearable cameras.”

Amazon’s new store was created to serve as a single destination for all wearable technology needs. It features product details, reviews, buying guides and information on devices that are yet to appear on the market. Visitors can also pre-order new wearable hardware, like sports clothing with integrated cardio sensors.

Amazon says that part of the store will be stocked by companies already established in the wearable space, such as Sony and Nike, but it will also promote start-ups like Misfit, which designs activity tracking jewellery, and Basis, a health-focused smartwatch manufacturer recently acquired by Intel.

“Sales of wearable technology devices have taken off in the last year with many customers already using them on a daily basis,” said Andrew Milliken, director of Consumer Electronics at Amazon.

“With designs continually becoming simpler, smaller, and more stylish, devices have become increasingly useful and fit seamlessly into everyday life. As well as offering the biggest selection, the focus is also on providing customers with all the information they need to understand these new devices and make the best possible choice.”

Last month, Google revealed the first three smartwatches running a specialised version of Android OS called Android Wear – LG G Watch, Samsung Gear Live and Moto 360. The new software is expected to dramatically boost the adoption of wearable technology.

Apple and Microsoft are rumoured to be working on their own smartwatch designs, but no official details have been made public yet.

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