User Insights

Interviewing users with active lifestyles uncovered trends highlighting their needs, framing goals for our Sport Smartwatch, that began as a Fossil + Google collaboration.

Goals

Concept Exploration

To speed up usability when active, journey maps focused on quick access to sports related functions were explored. Watch design themes were inspired by trending activewear fashion focused on material function and performance. 

Selected Theme

This concept best embodied this user insight driven goals featuring light, waterproof components, and protective aluminum case.  The minimal design language with a two-tone profile provides a visually impactful way to feature activewear fashion trends.

Technical Collaboration

A lightweight single-part chassis construction serving as the mounting structure for the motherboard, sensors and strap was developed collaboratively with the engineering team.  Using 3D prints to iteratively test and refine the chassis, case, and strap led to a visually compelling, ergonomically comfortable, manufacturable design.

Purposeful Materials

Selected materials achieve vibrant colors and elevated finishes while staying true to functional goals.  Our durable, lightweight, UV resistant and waterproof materials include an anodized aluminum case, flexible glass fiber nylon chassis and high durometer silicone strap with a soft ergonomic feel.

Sport Fashion

The assortment reflects a diverse range of fitness apparel trends, when combined with interchangeable strap offerings, customers can easily coordinate with their favorite activewear.

Fast, Flexible, Active

A fitness-forward “quick launch” feature was developed and tested to ensure users could access their favorite workouts with ease.  With just two actions, a user’s top six workouts, heart rate or music app can be launched.

Design Details

The dual finish anodized aluminum case shields the flexible single-mold glass fiber injected nylon chassis.  A scrolling crown and two pushers offer precise tactile input, complimenting the functionality of the OLED touch screen.  The caseback features 360 degree charging rings and a multifunctional health metric sensor.  A soft edged silicone strap with a rear cavity adds breathability and comfort.