Smartwatch History and Evolution
🕰️ Early Concepts (1927–1970s)
- 1927: Plus Four Wristlet Route Indicator – mechanical scroll map for navigation.
- 1972: Pulsar P1 – first digital watch with LED display by Hamilton Watch Company.
- 1975: Pulsar Calculator Watch – introduced computing on the wrist.
💡 Experimental Smart Features (1980s–1990s)
- 1982: Seiko TV Watch – featured a tiny screen for video playback.
- 1983: Seiko Data-2000 – stored memos and calendar entries.
- 1994: Timex Datalink – first wireless data transfer from PC to watch (co-developed with Microsoft).
- 1998: Linux Wristwatch – created by Steve Mann, a pioneer in wearable computing.
📱 Smartwatch Foundations (2000s)
- 2000: IBM WatchPad – ran Linux, featured touchscreen and Bluetooth.
- 2003: Microsoft SPOT – received news and weather via FM signals.
- 2003: Fossil Wrist PDA – ran Palm OS with stylus input.
- 2009: Burg Watch Phone – first standalone smartwatch with SIM card.
🚀 Modern Smartwatches (2010s)
- 2012: Sony SmartWatch – Android-based companion device.
- 2013: Pebble – Kickstarter success with app support and notifications.
- 2014: Moto 360 – round display and Android Wear OS.
- 2015: Apple Watch – introduced fitness tracking, apps, and digital crown.
🤖 Smartwatch Evolution (2020s–2025)
- 2020: Apple M1 chip revolutionized smartwatch performance.
- 2023: Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 – advanced health sensors and Wear OS.
- 2024: Apple Watch Series 10 – AI features, edge-to-edge display.
- 2025: Smartwatches integrate AI assistants, blood pressure tracking, and 5G connectivity.
🔮 Future Trends
- AI-powered health coaching and diagnostics.
- Foldable and modular smartwatch designs.
- Eco-friendly materials and longer battery life.
- Deeper integration with smart homes and vehicles.
