The Asus ZenWatch 2 is a much-hyped device in the market today, although, it is a basic smartwatch featuring limited capability, due to Google Android Wear’s limited functionality. The device, however, has a few tricks up its sleeve and sports a highly competitive price margin.
Asus has launched the ZenWatch 2 in two variants and the larger model measures 49.9 mm x 40.7 mm. The smaller variant shaves off a few mm off these dimensions. People might be bent on larger screen sizes, but I prefer the smaller screen variant as opposed to its behemoth counterpart, for the sole reason that the larger device covers your entire wrist.
It might not look out of place, but is surely uncomfortable when you are wearing it for prolonged durations. However, despite its large size, the bezel covers most of the exterior surface, meaning that the display is quite small as compared to the overall screen size.
Even though the Asus ZenWatch 2 is relatively cheaper than the other wearable smartwatches available in the market, the device features options such as Bluetooth 4.1, alongside onboard sensors that detect movement and gestures.
The device is also water-resistant to a certain extent. Hence, even though you might not be able to go swimming while wearing the ZenWatch 2, you do not need to panic in case of an accidental splash.
The device is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 processor, which powers quite a few other smartwatches in the market. The device is covered in a protective layer of Gorilla Glass, protecting it from scratches while lending it a robust feel. The ZenWatch 2 is pet-resistant too, in case the little guy gets a little too curious about the queer new object in the house!
The best part about the device, according to me, is the fact that you do not need to constantly worry about the charge draining out. The ZenWatch 2 has a decent enough battery life and lasts for up to two days of heavy usage.
Asus claims that the quick-charging battery needs to be plonked into the charger for approximately 40 minutes to get the ZenWatch 2 up and running again, in case you’re in an emergency!
Android Wear’s low-power watchface mode is a savior since it allows people to view all notifications on the smartwatch, without having to sacrifice precious battery life. Lower power creates a ghostly impression of the notifications on the screen, which is not too hard on your vision.
If you want to head out of battery saver mode, a simple flick to the wrist will bring the ZenWatch 2 out of hibernation and the display will pop back to life, sporting high-resolution color combinations. Google has made no major changes to the Android Wear’s user interface. Hence, you still swipe up to view the notifications, swipe left to see apps and double tap to view.
Google has made some notable changes to their Wearable Android OS, which now supports a greater number of apps than it previously could. One such major improvement has been made to Google Maps, which now works perfectly on the device.
Every functionality has been synchronized perfectly with the ZenWatch 2, which now supports location pinpoint while showing you the shortest route to your destination. Google has also enhanced their Maps for monitoring traffic.
Like every other wearable device in the market, the Asus ZenWatch 2 has its share of downsides. For example, the device cannot tell when you are leaning against the wall or interacting deliberately with the device. There are times when you want to view notifications, but the ZenWatch 2 automatically switches watch faces.