VCNI Unveils NickWatch by Nickelodeon

ViacomCBS Networks International (VCNI) has unveiled the first-ever connected smart NickWatch by Nickelodeon, which will be available for purchase in 2022.

Developed with VCNI’s specialized tech partner, the wearable device will offer entertainment with Nickelodeon characters, while the underlying technology platform will provide a direct line of communication to family and friends and promote physical activity. Each device will come with the smartwatch body, two watch bands and a character-led charging base.

The product will encourage kids to have a healthy lifestyle by promoting physical and social play activities, enabling them to play alone or with friends who have a NickWatch to set off on the same quest together. Entertainment based on Nickelodeon IP will include photo filters, motion sound effects and musical instruments that play out according to hand movements. Regular content updates with new games, new stickers, new sound effects and more will be added on an ongoing basis.

The platform will allow text and voice calls, with the parent or caregiver able to text the child from their phone. Kids can respond with pre-written responses, voice-to-text, emojis or photos. The child can also call their parents/contacts within their directory and receive incoming calls from pre-selected contacts. Caregivers can create group threads and can also send sticker messages, timers, reminders, photos, voice messages and create polls.

Further, kids and parents can stay connected via a map feature that will allow caregivers and family members to see the current location of everyone in the family via GPS, WiFi and cellular towers by downloading the app on their device.

The NickWatch by Nickelodeon has been developed in partnership with Watchinu, an Israeli technology startup, which has built and will be operating the device via a licensee agreement with VCNI. Pricing, retail and distribution partners, as well as market availability, will be announced at a later date by VCNI.

Raffaele Annecchino, president and CEO of ViacomCBS Networks International, said: “ViacomCBS is known for its portfolio of iconic brands that have shaped current events and pop culture for decades. Now, as we look to the future, the NickWatch marks a milestone as the first connected smartwatch to harness the power of our consumer brands. This strategic product launch will leverage our IP and content to further strengthen our position as a leading commercial partner with diverse consumer touchpoints creating a new immersive experience.”