Mostly known for its flagship smartphones, tech manufacturer HTC is diversifying its lineup. However, it seems that those waiting for the company's first fitness-focused wearable will have to wait longer, as reports indicated that it bas been delayed anew.
According to industry follower The Verge, HTC announced that it will delaying the release of the Grip, the fitness tracker band that the company engineered together with its partner Under Armour. Instead of the scheduled roll-out date before the year ends, the Grip fitness band will be seen on store shelves by next year.
This had been the second time that HTC delayed the release of the Grip. In a report by Wareable, the company announced that the original release date of the Grip in the middle of this year was delayed, with HTC stating that "after extensive wear testing and user feedback, it has been decided to align Grip with the entire product portfolio for health and fitness launching later this year."
The HTC Grip is a $199 wristband, a dedicated fitness tracker. It has a touchscreen display and GPS radio, aside other sensors. HTC issued a statement to Phandroid, saying that "As we continue to develop the Connected Fitness platform and elevate our product offerings, Under Armour and HTC have decided to launch a fully integrated digital ecosystem of products early next year."
Meanwhile, although HTC has to confirm it yet, it seems that aside from the Grip, the company will also be launching other wearables as part of its Connected Fitness platform. Although it did not say whether a whole set of fitness-related accessories will be developed together with Under Armour – the fitness company already has a number of wearables under its wings – the statement did indicate that the platform will be a connected experience for fitness buffs who are also HTC users.
"This global launch will provide the tools needed to help athletes of all levels track, manage and improve their health and fitness," HTC said.
