During a keynote speech at the Salesforce. com Dreamforce 2014 conference in California this week, musician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Will. i. am unveiled a new voice-controlled, smart wristband called ‘Puls.’
The Puls connected wearable is essentially a standalone voice-enabled cuff which is capable of making phone calls, but without requiring a smartphone to use. As such, users do not have to link the Puls to a smartphone to track personal fitness, surf social media or check their emails.
The smart wristband will be available from AT&T in the US; and from O2 in the UK. Though details about the device are currently quite sparse, it is expected to hit the markets in time for Christmas this year.
Will. i. am has asserted that the Puls wearable is not a smartwatch, it is more of a “cuff,” thanks largely to the size of the device which makes a distinct statement. At launch, the Puls will be available in one size, but subsequently more additions will be made to the size options for the device.
With Puls equipped with ‘AneedA’ intelligent personal assistant powered by Nuance Communications, Will. i. am said in a statement that a “voice first, touch second” functionality forms the basis of the device; and added that the wristband “represents digital freedom, individuality, intelligence and the intersection where fashion and technical innovation meet.”
