Microsoft working on Google Glass rival, HTC making smartwatch, reports say

HTC and Microsoft, two companies that have been struggling to keep up with their rivals in the smartphone race, are reportedly working on next-generation wearable technology.

Reports this week say the two tech companies are working on wearable gadgets similar to ones already announced by some of their rivals. This includes smartwatches and smartglasses.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Microsoft is testing out prototypes for smartglasses that would rival Glass, a product Google announced last year and began releasing in a limited format in early 2013. The Journal report cites unnamed sources.

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Previously, Microsoft has also been reported as working on a smartwatch that would rival current gadgets on the market, like the Sony SmartWatch 2, as well as those rumored to be in development, like Apple’s rumored “iWatch.”

Now, a Bloomberg report says HTC is also working on a smartwatch.

Citing unnamed sources, the report says HTC is hoping to launch a smartwatch device by the second half of 2014. The device will run on Google’s Android software and it will be able to take pictures, just like the Samsung Galaxy Gear smartwatch that made its U.S. debut earlier this month.

Smartphones are still the prime battlefield in the world of tech, but it’s clear to all companies involved that wearable technology will be the next front.

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