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This is LG’s G Watch Android Wear smartwatch

LG has shown off its upcoming Android Wear smartwatch ahead of a July launch

LG has given us a first look at its upcoming G Watch, the smartwatch powered by Google’s Android Wearoperating system, ahead of an official July launch. It was the first time the watch has been shown off in public here in the UK, and although it was a non-working sample we got to strap it on and compare it to it’s biggest rival; Samsung’s Gear 2.

LG G Watch

First announced last month after Google unveiled Android Wear, the heavily modified version of Android designed specifically for wearable devices, the G Watch will be among the first smart watches to use the new OS. We originally saw digital renders of the device, which unlike Motorola’s smartwatch will use a rectangular design rather than a circular display, but today we saw a pre-production model in the flesh.

We were told the screen would be always-on, but wouldn’t use OLED or E ink technology (almost defintiely meaning LCD, which could be detrimental to battery life). The time and a Google Now icon will be constantly visible, with an “OK Google” voice prompt activating. There are no buttons on the watch at all, so it will very much be a companion device rather than a stand-alone smartwatch.

LG G Watch

Compared to the Gear 2, the G Watch feels a little lighter and is a lot more subtle on your wrist, especially compared to the champagne gold Gear 2 we wore to LG’s event. Both watches have removable straps, so you can swap the standard plastic band for a more luxurious leather or steel one, or a more colourful alternative if you prefer.

It should work with any smartphone, not just LG’s own range of handsets, so you won’t be tied into a specific manufacturer as you are with Samsung’s Gear. It also has a series of pins along the bottom face for charging, which seems to be a more straightforward approach than Motorola’s yet to be revealed wireless charging system.

LG G Watch

According to an LG representative, the G Watch should be arriving in the UK around July and should cost no more than £180 – significantly cheaper than Samsung’s rival Gear 2. We’ll be taking a closer look a little closer to launch, with more news expected to arrive in the next few weeks.

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