Michael Kors confirmed plans this morning to enter the wearables market.
The company is working on a wearable technology accessories line that it will roll out later this year, beginning with an ‘Access’ display smartwatch.
The launch is geared towards the fashion-focused consumer and features a timepiece that focuses on glamorous style and innovative design.
The technology, which runs with both iPhone and Android phones, runs off Google’s Android Wear smartwatch platform.
John Idol, chairman and CEO of Michael Kors, and David Singleton, VP of engineering for Android Wear, outlined the partnership at Baselworld 2016 and said their objective was to show that technology and social connectivity should be seamless as well as stylish.
“I’m in the business of making people’s lives easier through fashion,” said Michael Kors. “I thought, ‘Why can’t tech accessories be chic and glamorous?’ You wear them every day. After all, technology is impacting life more and more. It should reflect your personal taste as much as anything else, but it should also give you access to all the experiences that you want.”
The range will include a selection of Michael Kors display faces that change with a swipe, as well as all the built-in social media, fitness and app technology you would expect from a smartphone.
“Our brand is built on giving our customers what they want for their 24/7, fast-paced lifestyle,” said Google’s John Idol. “We know they’re busy and need to be connected. We’re now offering them a smartwatch that lets them have access to a world of glamour, escape and adventure.”
The company said the first range would retail from around £275.
