Clocking the law: Garmin releases smartwatch for police officers

Who says smartwatches can't be tough enough?

 

Garmin, a brand more affiliated with GPS devices than time pieces, launched this week the "tactix," a rugged smart watch that it said is "inspired by the requirements of law enforcement and police special operations."

 

"Built for training, exploring, and more, this field-ready wristwatch boasts an altimeter, barometer, 3-axis compass, and extensive tracking capabilities for precise navigation in the field. tactix is waterproof to 50 meters, and can run up to 50 hours in GPS mode on one charge," the company said in a blog post. 

 

However, it also pointed out the 50-hour battery life may go down to 16 hours in full GPS mode.

 

The watch, which will sell for US$499, comes preloaded with tide data and Jumpmaster software, which Garmin said "could prove invaluable for amphibious and airborne operations."

 

It also comes with the ABC (altimeter, barometer, and compass) sensors.

 

Also, the watch has a stealth, matte black design with a curved lens and green backlight, "so it won’t flare out with night vision devices or compromise the user’s position."

 

Dan Bartel, Garmin’s vice president of worldwide sales, said the watch allows the wearer to "go hands free while still having access to accurate information on barometric pressure, elevation, and GPS position could prove to be invaluable in the field.”

 

Garmin said the preloaded tide data and Jumpmaster software are important for both military operations and recreational activities.

 

Garmin said the tactix has a comprehensive navigational toolset that lets users "plan trips, create routes, record waypoints (up to 1,000) such as rally points, landing zones, or potential campsites."

 

A "TracBack" function can guide users along a previously recorded tracklog, it added.

 

The watch also has a preloaded worldwide basemap that displays cities nearby, and Bluetooth capabilities to "wirelessly share tracks, waypoints, routes, and geocaches with other compatible Garmin devices or smartphones with the BaseCamp mobile app."

 

On the other hand, Garmin said the watch can also be used as a remote for the new Garmin VIRB action camera. Meanwhile, the watch also provides real-time performance data, such as distance, pace, cadence and even calories, though the sensor for cadence is sold separately.

 

This could help users keep track of their progress during physical training (PT), or other fitness activities. – KDM, GMA News