The BLOCKS modular smartwatch has flown past its Kickstarter goal in a just a few hours

The BLOCKS modular smartwatch hit Kickstarter today and in just a few short hours it has flown past its initial $250,000 goal. There was a lot of hype initially surrounding its launch, which has proven to be well deserved.

BLOCKS was first teased back at CES with a promise of hitting the crowdfunding circuit this summer. The build-your-own watch offers a unique alternative to Apple Watch and Android Wear examples that are largely limited in function by their software capabilities. Although it took a little more time than originally expected, today’s response has been through the roof. Head below for more details.

After just a few hours, BLOCKS has raised just over $350,000, nearly one-and-a-half times its initial goal. The premise is simple: modular links are added to the core watch face to create a custom smart timepiece. Some of the add-ons include additional storage, a fingerprint sensor, NFC connectivity and gesture control.

Each individual block pairs together and can be added or removed at any time. Some are more logical, (like a 20% battery increase) while others will need additional support (NFC and SIM card). BLOCKS has five modules currently available during the Kickstarter, with another four planned and just as many on its future wish list. 

The core includes a color touchscreen display with Bluetooth LE/Wi-Fi connectivity, haptic feedback, activity tracking and roughly 36 hours of battery life. A Snapdragon 400 processor stands as the brains of this watch. It is compatible with iOS and Android devices with a myriad of customizable watch faces that can be downloaded from the BLOCKStore. Software features include sleep tracking, activity monitoring, phone functionality and more. BLOCKS is IP67 certified for slight protection from water like puddles or rain (Apple Watch is IPX7).

BLOCKS estimates that you’ll be able to fit four modules on larger wrists or three for those with smaller appendages. Initially, the watch will be available in three colors: black, white and red. A pledge of $195 will deliver a modular-less core and band in March of 2016, while $285 adds four modulars of your choice.

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