By Casio has once again raised the bar for outdoor smartwatches with the release of the WSD-F20, a new addition to their Pro Trek Smart lineup. Building on the success of the previous model, the WSD-F10, the WSD-F20 now features several key upgrades that outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate, especially its built-in GPS functionality.
The original WSD-F10 was praised for its rugged design, solid battery life, and a range of features that helped users stay connected, navigate routes, and track fitness metrics during outdoor adventures. The new WSD-F20 retains all of those capabilities but takes things a step further with onboard GPS. This added feature allows for better navigation and route finding without the need to rely on a smartphone. Whether you’re hiking, trail running, or exploring new terrain, the WSD-F20 now offers more independence, making it a useful tool in areas with limited or no mobile signal.
In addition to GPS, the WSD-F20 also introduces color maps, making it easier to read and interpret navigation routes compared to the monochrome maps on its predecessor. The device also includes a new “Location Memory” app, enabling users to add waypoints and even text annotations to their routes. This feature is particularly handy for those who need to track their way back to a specific spot, like their parked car after a long hike.
The new model runs on the Android Wear 2.0 operating system, which brings several improvements, including access to more standalone apps. This update enhances the smartwatch’s performance, allowing for smoother interactions and faster processing. The addition of Wi-Fi connectivity means the WSD-F20 can perform tasks without being tethered to a smartphone, making it an especially great option for iPhone users who were previously limited by the WSD-F10’s Android-only features.
As for durability, the WSD-F20 is just as rugged as its predecessor, with a water resistance of up to 50 meters. It still offers a solid one-day battery life when using GPS and other smart features, but if you’re using it simply as a timepiece, the battery can last up to a month. The watch also includes a range of sensors, including an accelerometer, gyroscope, barometric pressure sensor, and electronic compass, providing the essential data for outdoor activities like hiking and fitness tracking.
Casio has announced that the WSD-F20 will be available for purchase on April 21. While the price has not been officially disclosed, it’s expected to be around $500, which is the same price point as the previous WSD-F10. For those looking for a more affordable option, the older model will likely see a price drop as well.
Overall, the WSD-F20 is a fantastic upgrade for those who rely on their smartwatch for outdoor activities, providing more independence from their smartphones and delivering enhanced performance for navigation, fitness tracking, and more.
