The TicWatch Pro S is a 2021 smartwatch with a 2016 chip
- Mobvoi has presented the TicWatch Pro S, an update of last year’s TicWatch Pro.
- You will find better durability, VO2 max tracking, and swimming support.
- However, it also sells for $ 259.99 with a 2016 Snapdragon Wear 2100.
Mobvoi gives TicWatch Pro a (mostly) welcome update from last year. The company launched the TicWatch Pro S, a refresh to improve health and fitness functions. The Wear OS device is available now in the US, UK and Europe on the Mobvoi website and on Amazon for $ 259.99.
The TicWatch Pro S promises a “longer lifespan” including IP68 water and dust resistance for swimming lessons. You can also expect 8GB of expanded storage space and a range of software upgrades such as VO2 Max tracking (maximum oxygen volume), more detailed sleep monitoring, a breathing exercise app, and noise alerts.
In addition, you will find a familiar 1.39-inch 400 × 400 AMOLED main display as well as a characteristic “Essential Mode” screen that only provides basic information, but promises outdoor readability and a battery life of up to 30 days. This low-power panel is now available while you are using the TicWatch Pro S Essential mode to both reduce battery consumption and prevent your watch from glowing in the middle of the night.
Continue reading: The best Wear OS watches
You can also count on NFC, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS, and a 415 mAh battery that is said to be good for typical use for two to five days.
There is a catch, however. Despite the various upgrades, the TicWatch Pro S runs a Snapdragon Wear 2100 – a chip that Qualcomm introduced in 2016. It’s a far cry from the Wear 4100 chip in Mobvoi’s own TicWatch Pro 3 and may even feel out of date alongside the Wear 3100 in other Wear OS watches.
That could make the wristwear a tough sell. In this general price range, you can buy a range of Wear OS watches with similar fitness features. The TicWatch Pro 3 doesn’t cost much more despite the faster chip and larger battery. You will still save some money, but it might not be an easy choice.
