Just when those smartwatch rumors started to die down, Sony comes in and announces an actual smartwatch. The SmartWatch 2 is a follow-up to their previous foray into wearable computing last year, and it’s packed with some significant improvements that might make it worth a look this time around.

Because SmartWatch 2 is designed to be a companion for your Android device, it has to sync with it first. Sony has made the great choice of implementing one-touch pairing through the use of NFC, which should greatly enhance the experience — no more fumbling around settings to get the devices synced up. Another neat touch is that to improve the interface of the SmartWatch, they’ve decided to give it a familiar looking UI. And by familiar I mean it looks kind of like a shrunken down version of Android, complete with the same button layout on the bottom.

http://youtu.be/DoUzM7WYlP0

But those things don’t really answer the question, “why would I need one of these things?” I think the best way to find out is actually some of the suggestions Sony gave in their official announcement. If you find one of these scenarios appealing to you, then maybe a smartwatch might not be such a bad idea:

• Handle your calls by a simple touch of your wrist
• Take a photo remotely from your SmartWatch, using a smart camera app
• Control your presentations remotely using Presentation Pal
• Taking a run or on the bike? Select a mapping app on SmartWatch to check your route with a quick glance at your wrist
• Read previously downloaded e-mails when not connected to your phone
• Use lifestyle apps like Runtastic to map and instantly track your fitness activities on the go
• Quickly and easily adjust the tracks and volume on your music player, without ever taking your phone from your pocket

The SmartWatch 2 also continues Sony’s awesome trend of water-resistant devices — their flagship smartphone, the Xperia Z, along with the recently announced Xperia Z Ultra are both water-proof. The watch is also customizable with any  standard 24mm wristband, and the company will be making their own watch straps available as well.

To add to all these neat little features, the SmartWatch 2 when not taking your calls and emails, is also a digital watch. You know, just in case you forgot.

The Sony SmartWatch 2 will be available worldwide this September. No pricing details have been announced.