At the Baselworld watch and jewelry fair, musician Will.i.am and Gucci president and chief executive officer Marco Bizzarri revealed they are collaborating on a smartwatch.
The Black Eyed Peas frontman dubbed the collaboration “fashion-ology” — connoting a mix of style and technology — and said the device would allow users to take selfies and conduct video chats. “I.am+ and Gucci Timepieces are setting the pace with our vision for a untethered wearable,” said Will.i.am, underscoring that it functions as a standalone smartband, disconnected from any smartphone.
Stéphane Linder, president and ceo of Gucci Timepieces said that, through this collaboration, the Italian brand “is fully embracing the future of wearable technology that is now ahead of us, with the objective of launching a wearable device concept that is a fashion accessory, incorporating the most comprehensive and advanced technological functionalities.”
Functionalities will include: the ability to make and receive phone calls, send and receive text messages and emails, music, maps, calendar, fitness and a sophisticated personal assistant activated by voice command.
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Details about the timing of the launch or the price range are not yet available.
On Wednesday, a teaser clip at the Gucci stand showed images of Will.i.am with the logo of his firm i.am+, which last year unveiled the i.am.Puls fashion bracelet.
Baselworld managing director Sylvie Ritter estimates that more than 10 traditional Swiss watch brands are to present connected watches at the fair this year.