Intrigued by the allure of having your phone notifications sync to your wrist watch, but not ready to give up that old Timex yet? I have just the thing you are looking for.
The Chronos is a “smart disc that attaches to the back of any watch,” allowing your previously dumb watch to perform smart features such as; health and fitness tracking, music controls, notification alerts and a “find your phone” option via a tap on the face of your watch.
You will also be able to use your Chronos watch to take pictures and silence calls.
All of the Chronos “smart” features can be controlled via their application, which is available on iOS at the time of this writing. Android is currently stated as coming soon.
The Chronos, since it lacks a display and is placed onto the base of your watch, alerts you by using lights and vibrations. Both of which are controlled via the aforementioned Chronos application.
The Chronos uses “micro-suction” for the adhesive tech to hold the device to your watch and they claim compatibility with “any watch.” If you’re not sure what “micro-suction” is, it is somewhat akin to the sticky and washable adhesives found on most windshield mountable phone/GPS mounts. If the section loses its ability to stick, simply wash it gently under cold water.
Chronos uses a rechargeable lithium polymer battery that should last about two days on a full charge. Chronos does recommend charging it when you sleep, but it only takes about 30 minutes to fully charge, so don’t worry too much if you need to pop it on the charger while in the shower or having your morning coffee.
Charging is done by dropping the Chronos, while connected to your watch, onto the included wireless charging cradle.
The Chronos is not waterproof but is IP67 rated. Meaning that it is water-resistant, but should not be submerged for extended periods. Wearing your watch while doing dishes or out in the rain for a short period should not cause any damage. Keep in mind though that the micro-suction tech that secures the Chronos with your watch may weaken during contact with water.
The Chronos certainly is an interesting device and could certainly prove useful if you still enjoy the traditional wrist watch. One caveat to using this device, though, is that it will add thickness and weight to what is usually an already cumbersome watch. Coming in at 3mm thick and 10g in weight, the impact may not be significant, but is certainly something to consider.
What do you think? Is the Chronos something you may take into account while you hold out for true smartwatches to improve? Or, simply because you prefer the traditional watch look and feel while longing for a few extra features?
GadgetSyrup 