Indian Tech YouTuber’s Anarc Smartwatch Faces Allegations of Being a Scam

In a shocking turn of events, one of India’s most popular tech YouTubers, boasting over 10 million subscribers (TechBurner), has come under fire after the launch of their highly anticipated “Anarc Smartwatch.” The product, which was marketed as an innovative and premium smartwatch for Rs 7000, is now being accused of misleading claims, poor functionality, and questionable business practices.

The Bold Claims

The Anarc Smartwatch was introduced with much fanfare, promising features such as:

• Accurate health tracking, including heart rate and sleep monitoring
• A premium design allegedly “crafted in London”
• A custom-built user interface and companion app
• Robust performance with long battery life

These claims, paired with the influencer’s massive credibility in the tech space, led to immense hype, driving substantial sales within days of the launch.

The Reality Check

However, reports from buyers and independent reviewers paint a starkly different picture. Numerous users have highlighted significant flaws, including:

• Faulty sensors: Heart rate and sleep tracking data were inconsistent and often incorrect, even during basic workouts.
• Inaccurate marketing: Despite being touted as innovative, the watch appears to be a white-label Chinese product, with little to no actual customization.
• App plagiarism: The smartwatch app, listed on the Google Play Store, is reportedly an exact replica of an app used by another smartwatch brand. Play Store screenshots even accidentally displayed the name of a different product.

Customer Support Woes

Adding to the controversy, several buyers reported that when they reached out to customer support to resolve issues, the responses were in Chinese. This discovery raised further doubts about the claims of the smartwatch being “designed in London” and “built from scratch.”

Design and Performance Flaws

Critics have also pointed out significant flaws in the watch’s design and functionality:

• The bulky design makes it uncomfortable for prolonged use.
• Missing features such as built-in GPS, workout tracking accuracy, and reliable notifications.
• A laggy user interface that detracts from the overall experience.

For a product priced at Rs 7000, many argue that better-performing alternatives are available in the market for as low as Rs 3000.

A Question of Trust

The controversy has sparked widespread discussion about the responsibility of influencers and creators. With such a large following, the YouTuber’s endorsement carried immense weight, leading many fans to trust the product without second thoughts.

However, the revelations surrounding the Anarc Smartwatch have not only tarnished the product’s reputation but also raised questions about transparency and ethical marketing.

Industry Impact

This incident highlights a broader issue in the budget smartwatch industry, where rebranded products are often sold under the guise of innovation. While rebranding itself isn’t unethical, misleading claims about originality and functionality undermine consumer trust.

Final Take

The Anarc Smartwatch saga serves as a cautionary tale for both consumers and creators. For buyers, it’s a reminder to thoroughly research products before purchasing, regardless of who endorses them. For creators, it underscores the importance of transparency and accountability when leveraging their influence.

The smartwatch promised to be a game-changer, but instead, it has become a symbol of how hype can overshadow quality. Whether this controversy will lead to corrective action remains to be seen.

What’s your take on the Anarc Smartwatch? Share your thoughts below.