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Fossil to develop new Spot Watch with Microsoft

May 2003




Fossil has partnered with Microsoft to develop a new collection of watches incorporating Microsoft Smart Personal Objects Technology (SPOT).

Announced by Microsoft Chairman and chief software architect Bill Gates in his keynote address at the 2003 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the new Fossil watch, powered by SPOT, and available this fall in three branded versions, will enable users to receive and display timely, customized Web content at the convenient flick of a wrist.

The watch will provide consumers with instant access to personalized Web information and services - including news, weather, sports, stock quotes, instant messaging, and more. With the easy-to-use configuration Web page, users select the content they desire. Once selected, the content is broadcast over a new radio receiver solution developed by Microsoft and beamed conveniently to the watch.
SPOT based wrist wear will be low-power, low-cost and better at performing core functions, such as auto-time adjustment based on location and customizable watch faces, with SPOT enhanced, easy-to-use software.
Fossil plans to launch the new SPOT watch initially in three branded versions: the company's new ABACUS™ tech brand targeting the electronics channel, the Philippe STARCK with
FOSSIL® , a collection of watches designed by the well known French designer Philippe Starck, and FOSSIL®. All versions of the watches powered by SPOT are scheduled to ship for autumn 2003, pricing to be determined.


Europa Star Magazine April - May 2003 issue