Asus VivoWatch SP Hands On: Killer Battery Life, Dull Display
BERLIN—Following the launch of the VivoWatch BP(Opens in a new window) at IFA 2018, Asus this year introduced the stylish VivoWatch SP. While both smartwatches measure ECG and PPG, the new SP watch looks more like an everyday accessory than the BP model’s medical device vibe.
The VivoWatch SP also comes with extensive fitness-tracking features.
At first glance, the VivoWatch SP looks like a standard smartwatch. The rounded case has a ceramic top ring and plastic bottom, along with a touch-screen display (more on that, later). But embedded into the sides are two sensors, one to measure ECG and another for PPG (optical heart rate sensor). With one situated on the top right and the other on the bottom left, it makes it comfortable to place both your thumb and finger on the case to take readings simultaneously.
Both sensors can also track pulse transit time (PTT) info, autonomic nervous system index (ANS age), pulse O2 level, sleep, and stress. While Asus says it can also track blood pressure, the feature will be limited to certain countries and regions.
With GPS and an altimeter, the VivoWatch SP tracks workouts as well. Scrolling through on the watch, I swiped through widgets like step count, exercise, heart rate, sleep, and calories burned. Hikers and climbers can also use the watch to check their elevation gain and oxygen saturation.
When you’re done, your activity syncs to the Asus HealthConnect app, where you’ll be able to view more in-depth stats including speed, distance, altitude, and duration, along with activity maps. Using your health metrics and workout history, the app also provides you with customized tips and advice.
But the most impressive SP feature is its battery life. The smartwatch lasts up to two weeks tracking both activity and sleep, which means you don’t have to worry about charging it every night. However, that’s partly due to the reflective touch-screen display. It’s full color, but content looks dark and the interface a bit dated. Since this model was a prototype, we’ll likely see improvement on the final version.
Asus has yet to release pricing and availability information.
First Look at the Apple Watch Series 4
First Look at the Apple Watch Series 4
Get Our Best Stories!
Sign up for What’s New Now to get our top stories delivered to your inbox every morning.
This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time.
Thanks for signing up!
Your subscription has been confirmed. Keep an eye on your inbox!
Sign up for other newsletters
