Sales of smart wearable devices in the Taiwan market, including branded products from Asustek Computer, have been lower than expected, according to market sources.

However, sales of smartwatches for some designated segments, including running, biking, golfing and hiking, have fared better than general-purpose smartwatches or bracelets, the sources indicated.

Additionally, wearable devices priced below NT$7,000 (US$227) or those over NT$15,000 have enjoyed better sales, added the sources.

By brands, Garmin currently ranks as the top vendor for sports smartwatches in the local market a 50-60% market share, followed by Bryton with 15-20%. Other major vendors for sports smartwatches include TomTom and Golife.

The launch of smartwatches by Samsung Electronics, Sony Mobile Communications and Asustek have so far had a limited impact on sales of sports watches, the sources noted.