Swatch turns to Microsoft Smart Watch technology

By Matt Whipp

Posted on 21 Oct 2004 at 17:33

Swatch has announced its Paparazzi watch featuring Microsoft's Smart Watch technology that wirelessly feeds in data via a US network of FM radio signals.

The Paparazzi will go on sale for $150 and give wearers access to entertainment news and national news headlines; local weather high and low temperatures; major stock indexes and horoscopes delivered through Microsoft's MSN Direct service.

Paparazzi is the result of three years collaboration between the companies. Microsoft has previously worked with Fossil and Suunto on watches that incorporate its wireless data services.

While a basic level of data feeds is free, there are options to beef up the service: $40 a year will guarantee more in-depth information, and $60 a year will mean they can receive personal instant messages and calendar appointment reminders.

'The introduction of the Swatch Paparazzi watch represents a milestone for Smart Watches and MSN Direct. We are thrilled to work with an industry leader like Swatch to offer specialized content and stylish watches specially tailored for Swatch customers,' said Bill Mitchell, corporate VP of the Mobile Platforms Division at Microsoft.