New LG Smartwatch Includes P-OLED Display

LG Electronics announced on Thursday that it plans to launch another Android Wear smartwatch next week during IFA 2014 in Berlin. Called the LG G Watch R, this device will feature a new circular Plastic OLED (P-OLED) display measuring 1.3 inches. Unlike many smartwatches on the market, this model's screen will span across the entire face, not just a portion.

The circular P-OLED display will have a 320 x 320 resolution. The watch will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 chip clocked at 1.2 GHz with 512 MB of RAM and a 410 mAh battery, and it will run Google's Android Wear platform. There will also be 4 GB of internal storage and a handful of sensors including a gyro, accelerometer and compass.

The specifications also show that the watch has an IP67 rating, meaning it is resistant to water and dust. The watch can also keep running for 30 minutes while submerged in 3.28 feet of water. That said, don't go into the deep end of the pool while wearing this gadget; stay in the shallow side where the kiddies play.

"With an artisanal elegance, the LG G Watch R boasts a refined aesthetic that is reminiscent of traditional timepieces," the press release said. "Replete with a circular watch face, this elegantly crafted Android wearable has classic curves encased in a strong, durable stainless steel frame and carries a suite of watch faces that are accessible with a simple touch of the display. Its interchangeable 22 mm calf skin leather strap also complements its overall aesthetic, giving it an air of modern prestige."

Google introduced Android Wear back in March, an Android platform designed specifically for wearables. Features include the ability to get answers when the platform is asked a question, means to monitor the user's health and fitness and to access and control devices, and more. LG Electronics was one of the first to use this platform by launching the $229.99 G Watch earlier this year.

By comparison, the original G Watch features similar hardware: a Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 processor clocked at 1.2 GHz, 512 MB of RAM, 4 GB of internal storage, a 400 mAh battery, Bluetooth 4.0 and an IP67 rating. However, this model has a square 1.65-inch IPS LCD screen, and the overall dimensions are 37.9 x 46.5 x 9.95 mm.

IFA 2014 will take place from September 5 to September 10. Expect more coverage on this watch (and more) during the event.

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