The buzz around smartwatches grows by the day, although some consumers aren’t convinced they need yet another device to stay connected with friends and family, especially if they already enjoy wearing an analog timepiece. Currently seeking funding on Kickstarter, Glance is an accessory that simply slips inside the strap of any existing watch to give it smart functionality.

Rather than replacing their favourite wristwatch with one of the limited smartwatch designs currently available, Glance is a small curved display that can be fitted underneath the strap. Connecting to users’ iOS or Android smartphones via Bluetooth, the device can show the time in a different timezone, display caller IDs and messages, track activity and locate the smartphone.

Glance can also detect and be controlled through hand gestures — meaning users can autorespond to messages and control computers and TVs remotely without touching their phone.

Watch the video below to see the device in action:

Glance comes in three designs to fit different shaped wrists and can be pre-ordered by pledging CAD 70 or more. Are there other ways to design new technology products for consumers who don’t want to completely give up their existing ‘dumb’ ones?

Kickstarter: www.kck.st/1oRkJnS
Website: www.kiwiwearables.com