Michael Kors (NYSE:KORS), a global luxury fashion brand, is
pleased to announce a host of new products and initiatives designed to further the growth and
excitement generated by last fall’s launch of MICHAEL KORS ACCESS, the brand’s line of
smartwatches.
“It’s clear to me that the future of fashion will combine great design, personal style and
innovative technology,” says Michael Kors, “and the amazing response to MICHAEL KORS
ACCESS has confirmed that that future is now. We’re thrilled to be able to offer this next
generation of smartwatches and hybrids.”
Of special note:
• THE INTRODUCTION OF TWO NEW TOUCHSCREEN SMARTWATCHES:
THE SOFIE, FOR WOMEN, AND THE GRAYSON, FOR MEN
These additions to the smartwatch line feature updated software, a dazzling AMOLED
(active-matrix organic light-emitting diode) touchscreen display, and are designed, like
the ongoing Bradshaw and Dylan styles, for the customer who wants it all: technological
innovation, social connectivity and great style.
The sleek and feminine Sofie features a thin, lightweight case body with a pavé bezel
and a full round display. It will be offered in eight different plating-and-bracelet
combinations, with seven quick-release interchangeable strap options.
The Grayson, made to complement the 24/7 lifestyle of the modern man, combines
luxury with sporty good looks, and has a full-round dial with a rotating crown for quick
scrolling. It will be offered in gold-tone, stainless steel, and blue and black ion-plate, with
four interchangeable strap options.
Like all MICHAEL KORS ACCESS wearables, the Sofie and the Grayson are compatible
with both Android™ and iOS® phones thanks to cutting edge technology made possible
through a partnership with Google and the Android Wear™ 2.0 smartwatch platform.
They feature the Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ Wear 2100 system-on-a-chip.
• A SIGNIFICANT EXPANSION OF MEN’S SMARTWATCHES
Michael Kors believes that men’s smartwatches represent an important opportunity for
the future. In addition to the new touchscreen smartwatch, the brand is also introducing
two new hybrid smartwatch styles for men and expanding the existing Gage hybrid
assortment. Together, these new options will offer the Michael Kors man a broad range
of exceptional-looking smartwatch.
• THE EVOLUTION OF THE MICHAEL KORS ACCESS MICRO APP
The next iteration of the app will feature exciting, socially driven functionality, as well as
new customizable digital watch faces. My Social is a feature that allows the user to link
to her or his Instagram account and set a personal post photo as a watch face. The app
allows you to scroll through your Instagram feed, select a favorite image, and even apply
filters, creating a watch face that’s as personal as your life. By the end of 2017, the
brand will have released 15 new digital watch faces, all with multiple customizable
elements.
• THE LAUNCH OF MICHAEL KORS ACCESS IN NEW GLOBAL MARKETS
The brand will be launching its wearable technology line in a number of new markets in
2017, including Mainland China, Brazil and many others.
“MICHAEL KORS ACCESS display smartwatches have been extremely popular choices for
users who wish to wear watches that are both stylish and functional,” says David Singleton, Vice
President of Android Engineering, Google. “We’re very excited to continue the partnership with
Michael Kors to create beautiful new devices that let people express their style while staying
connected through the latest features of Android Wear 2.0.”
“When we launched, we stated that we would grow our wearable technology line by listening
closely to our customers,” says John Idol, Chairman and CEO of Michael Kors. “They have
made it clear that they love being connected, love the ease of notifications from their favorite
apps, and can never get enough customization. We’re pleased to be introducing exceptional
new smartwatches and software that deliver on those fronts and others, and in more markets
than ever.”
MICHAEL KORS ACCESS touchscreen smartwatches start at $350 USD. Hybrid smartwatches
start at $250 USD. Both are available in MichaelKors stores, MichaelKors.com and select department and specialty stores.