Huawei has unveiled the Watch GT Runner, a new GPS-enabled running watch designed to compete directly with established brands like Garmin, Coros, and Polar.
The company's strategy hinges on a high-profile collaboration with five-time Berlin Marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge, widely regarded as the greatest marathon runner in history.
The former world marathon record holder, who famously broke the two-hour marathon barrier in 2019, is not just the face of the new wearable.
Eliud Kipchoge reportedly played a key role in its development, particularly in shaping the AI-powered running coach feature. This function provides users with personalised training plans based on their performance data.
“By combining Huawei’s expertise in smart wearable technology with the team’s deep performance knowledge, we aim to deliver meaningful insights that benefit not only elite athletes, but runners of all levels around the world,” Huawei CMO Alex Huang said.
What You Need to Know About the Watch
The Watch GT Runner was officially announced in China on January 27. While an international release date has not been confirmed, Huawei typically launches its smartwatches globally a few months after their domestic debut, suggesting a potential March or April arrival in other markets.
The device features a 1.43-inch circular AMOLED display, with sections that can be customised with data widgets. Its case is constructed from a high-strength polymer composite, complemented by a nanocrystalline ceramic bezel.
The watch includes a rotating crown for menu navigation, similar to the Apple Watch, and a secondary button below it.
Weighing a mere 38.5 grams without its silicone strap, the Watch GT Runner is built for comfort during long runs. It also boasts a 5 ATM water resistance rating, making it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.