Casio Vivcel VCL-120 watch buzzed for incoming calls via AMPS signals
Updated
Updated · Android Police · May 2
Casio Vivcel VCL-120 watch buzzed for incoming calls via AMPS signals
7 articles · Updated · Android Police · May 2
The late-1990s quartz watch used a built-in receiver and vibration motor to detect activity in the 800 MHz band, letting users keep phones silent before Bluetooth or Wi-Fi links existed.
Because it could not distinguish a paired handset from other nearby AMPS devices, the watch often buzzed for unrelated calls as mobile use spread and the airwaves grew crowded.
The report presents the VCL-120 as a simpler precursor to modern smartwatches, valued for limited, passive alerts and a retro design even though AMPS-era quirks still trigger it today.
Are we trading mental peace for our smartwatches' data, and is simpler, vintage-inspired technology the solution?
As new satellite services launch on old radio bands, will our devices start receiving 'ghost' alerts from forgotten tech?
Your smartwatch gathers health data unprotected by law. Who is profiting from your most personal information?