Sony working on e-paper watch, expected to release next year

TOKYO: Sony is developing a watch made out of electronic paper for release as soon as next year in a trial of the company’s new venture-style approach to creating products, according to people familiar with the matter.

The watch’s face and wristband will be made from a patented material that allows the entire surface area to function as a display and change its appearance, the people said, asking not to be named.

The device will emphasise style, rather than trying to outdo more technological offerings like Apple's watch and Sony’s own SmartWatch, they said. CEO Kazuo Hirai formed a business creation division this year to fast-track promising products, and the watch is one of the effort’s the first results.