With the original ZenWatch getting a price cut, could it mean that the Asus ZenWatch 2 release date is on the horizon? Before the next-gen model is announced, the preceding one usually gets a price cut in an effort to clear stocks and make way for the new model.
"The first-gen Asus ZenWatch is now available for just $129 from the Google Store, down 35 percent from its previous price of $199," Phone Arena wrote.
Launched in November last year, ZenWatch specs include a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 chip clocked at 1.2GHz, 512MB of RAM, a 360mAh Li-polymer battery and a 1.63-inch 320 x 320p AMOLED display. It is currently running Android Wear 5.1.1.
But with a successor already showcased at Computex 2015 earlier this year, could the price cut mean the Asus ZenWatch 2 release date is coming soon?
As Phone Arena noted, it could indicate that Asus "is looking to clear stock before launching the [smartwatch]."
Tech Times agreed saying, "it is only natural that retailers will try to lure customers to [Asus'] first-gen smartwatch and the only way to do [that] is to offer a cheaper price."
If so, Asus wouldn't be the first to employ this tactic. Earlier this month, Franchise Herald reported that Motorola's Moto 360 price was slashed to $150 prompting speculations that the Moto 360 2nd gen could be unveiled soon.
Like its rival the Apple Watch, the ZenWatch 2 will come in two sizes, 45mm and 49mm, and a metal crown. Buyers will be able to customize the upcoming smartwatch with a variety of color options and straps including colorful rubber, stainless steel and even Swarovski crystals-laced leather, according to the Taiwanese tech firm.
Unlike other Android Wear-powered smartwatches, the second-gen ZenWatch is said to retain its square display.
Back in May, Asus CEO Jerry Shen confirmed an "early Q3 2015" Asus ZenWatch 2 release date, according to TechnoBuffalo. Exact pricing, availability, specs and other details are expected at IFA in Berlin this September.
