The Asus ZenWatch was one of our favourite Android Wear smartwatches of last year, and it looks set to get even better with Asus' brand-new ZenWatch 2. Announced today at Computex 2015, Asus has clearly been paying lots of attention to the Apple Watch, as the ZenWatch 2 will come with a new metal crown and two different size options.
Available in both 45mm and 49mm, the ZenWatch 2 is a little larger than Apple's 38mm and 42mm Watch options, but at least each model is made from stainless steel. There will be three colours to choose from (silver, gunmetal grey or rose gold) and up to 18 different strap options that come in leather, stainless steel and rubber, so you shouldn't have too much trouble finding one that suits you.
If you fancy a bit of extra bling, Asus has even announced a partnership with Swarovski Professional to produce a leather strap accented by Swarovski crystals and an embossed diamond pattern. The ZenWatch 2 also comes with a brand-new magnetic charger, which Asus says should "dramatically improve recharge times".
Sadly, the crown isn't a physical scroll wheel like the Apple Watch, but at least it will give you an extra button in addition to the main touchscreen. Like the original model, the ZenWatch 2 will have a 2.5D curved AMOLED display that uses Corning Gorilla Glass 3 to protect it against knocks and scratches. It's also IP67 water resistant, so you'll be able to wear it in the shower or during exercise without risk of damage.
Powered by an undisclosed Qualcomm processor, it runs the latest version of Android Wear, so you'll be able to view incoming calls, messages and notifications from your wrist without having to take your phone out of your bag. Asus has included several of its own apps as well, including ZenUI integration, FoneHelper, an activity and fitness tracker and an improved remote camera app. According to Asus, the remote camera app now offers faster performance, a greater range and gives you the ability to switch between the phone's front and rear camera.
It may be some time before we see the ZenWatch 2 in the UK, though, as The Verge is reporting that Asus plans to reveal full details, including price, specs and availability, during its IFA press conference in September. Still, if the price is anything like the £200 original, Asus could definitely have another winner on its hands when it eventually launches later this year.
