Customize BEFIT S1 Smartwatch for Poland MediaMax

Project Overview

Destination: Poland

Client: MediaMax Poland (Electronics Retail Chain)

Estimated Delivery: 55 Days

Key Challenges:

Balancing the urgent delivery schedule with the intricacies of the product’s design and functionality while meeting the expectations of the competitive Polish consumer electronics market.

Appearance Enhancements:

Updates to the watch’s aesthetic components, including the zinc alloy central frame, casing, and strap to align with European design preferences.

Functionality Improvements:

Tailoring the device’s language settings for the Polish market, enhancing the heart rate monitoring capability, and incorporating additional sports tracking options suitable for Central European users.

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Project Background

On March 10, 2022, MediaMax Poland, one of the leading electronics retail chains in Poland, initiated discussions regarding the development of a smartwatch that could compete with the popular XIAOMI COLOR 2 in the Polish market.

The XIAOMI COLOR 2 series had demonstrated strong market performance in Poland, gaining significant traction on local e-commerce platforms and social media channels, establishing itself as a top-selling smartwatch in MediaMax outlets across Warsaw, Krakow, and other major Polish cities. Recognizing this market opportunity, MediaMax Poland aimed to introduce a comparable product through OEM manufacturing for their BEFIT smartwatch line. The envisioned product would mirror the outdoor and sports-oriented design of the COLOR 2, positioning itself strategically within the mid-range market segment to appeal to Polish consumers seeking quality at competitive prices.

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Customer Requirements

Following extensive discussions with the MediaMax Poland procurement team, specific product requirements were established for the project:

Design & Market Positioning

• The design should closely resemble the XIAOMI Color 2, ensuring visual alignment while maintaining brand distinctiveness
• The smartwatch will be introduced as an affordable yet premium-feeling entry in the Polish market
• The planned release is set for mid-June to capitalize on the summer sports season, necessitating an expedited production timeline

Order Details

• Target Market: Poland and potentially broader Central European markets
• Product Name: BEFIT S1 Smartwatch
• Order Volume: 5,000 units (initial batch)
• Price Point: $24 per unit (FOB)
• Quality Expectation: High European retail standards within specified budget constraints
• Schedule: Constrained timeline requiring efficient project management
• Project Complexity: High, due to tight timeline, quality expectations, and European market compliance requirements

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Factory Evaluation and Selection

On March 14, 2022, the BSA GROUP team conducted comprehensive visits to four watch manufacturing facilities in Shenzhen. The objective was to assess potential manufacturing partners for this smartwatch project, comparing our long-standing smartwatch manufacturing partner against a new potential supplier with proven experience in OEM production of HUAWEI watches.

The companies evaluated during the site visits included:

• Shenzhen *** Intelligent Wear Co., Ltd.
• Shenzhen *** Technology Co., Ltd.

Following these factory assessments, BSA GROUP convened an urgent internal meeting with the product development team to thoroughly analyze the client’s specifications, budget constraints, timeline requirements, and quality standards expected by the Polish market.

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Risk Analysis and Solution Development

On March 17, 2022, our BSA GROUP team held a comprehensive strategy meeting to address the various challenges and develop effective solutions for the custom smartwatch project. This session took place after in-depth discussions with manufacturing facilities and detailed consultations with our MediaMax Poland client. The meeting identified critical issues requiring immediate and strategic resolutions.

Challenge 1: Time Urgency vs. Product Complexity

The Challenge:

The primary concern was the inherent conflict between the project’s tight deadline and the complexity involved in creating a sophisticated smartwatch product. Given the stringent timeline set by MediaMax Poland, creating a nearly identical replica of the XIAOMI Color 2 would necessitate significant time and financial investment—estimated at 7-8 weeks for mold development and tooling costs exceeding $5,000.

The Solution:

To overcome this challenge, BSA GROUP proposed selecting a similar base model from our existing smartwatch portfolio and customizing it strategically to meet the client’s expectations. This approach balanced time efficiency with cost-effectiveness while maintaining product quality. After presenting a detailed comparison analysis and modification plan to MediaMax Poland, including 3D renderings and specifications comparison charts, we received client approval to proceed with this optimized approach.

Challenge 2: Appearance Modifications

The aesthetic modifications focused on ensuring close resemblance to the Color 2 model while making necessary enhancements to appeal to Polish consumers’ preferences for premium-looking devices.

1. Zinc Alloy Center Frame Adjustment

Issue Identified:

MediaMax Poland’s product team noted that the base S1 model’s center frame was disproportionately wide, negatively impacting the device’s screen-to-body ratio—a critical factor for Polish consumers who value modern, sleek designs. Additionally, the original frame’s sharp edges detracted from the desired premium appearance expected in European markets.

BSA GROUP Solution:

Our design team developed a comprehensive redesign of the center frame featuring:

• Softer, rounded edges for improved ergonomics and premium feel
• A subtle 0.8mm indentation at the bezel to create visual depth
• Replacement of sharp decorative grooves with smoother, raised slopes similar to the Color 2’s design
• Enhanced screen-to-body ratio through sloping indentations on both sides

These modifications directed visual focus toward the screen while improving overall aesthetic appeal and aligning with European design trends.

2. Watch Case Enhancement

Challenge:

The initial design featured a plastic back case that did not meet European market standards for texture and premium feel. The client was particularly impressed by the IML (In-Mold Labeling) technique used in premium smartwatches like the Apple Watch, which integrates the heart rate sensor lens with the case for a seamless finish.

However, adopting the IML process presented significant challenges:

• Additional mold cost: $3,000
• Increased unit cost: $0.50 per unit
• Extended production timeline: 10-15 days
• These factors would jeopardize both the budget and delivery schedule

BSA GROUP Resolution:

To achieve a sophisticated, high-quality finish without compromising the project timeline or budget, our technical team proposed an advanced alternative solution utilizing a specialized oil spraying technique:

• Application of over ten layers of premium color coats
• Cross-linking paint application achieving 3-4H hardness level
• Enhanced gloss, durability, and scratch resistance
• Cost-effective production with no timeline delays
• Professional finish meeting European quality expectations

While this method produces a slightly different visual effect compared to IML, it successfully delivers the premium appearance and durability required for the Polish market at a fraction of the cost and time investment.

3. Watch Strap Optimization

Issue:

The original strap design was too thin, causing the watch to shift position on the wrist during physical activities—a significant concern for Polish consumers who prioritize sports and outdoor activities. This affected both comfort and perceived quality.

Solution:

BSA GROUP redesigned the strap to align more closely with the Color 2’s ergonomic design:

• Increased strap width for better stability and comfort
• Enhanced material quality with softer, more flexible silicone
• Improved stainless steel buckle with premium surface treatment
• Maintained subtle design distinctions to ensure brand differentiation

The redesigned strap successfully replicated the comfort, feel, and perceived quality of the Color 2 while ensuring secure positioning during various activities.

Challenge 3: Functionality Enhancements

1. Market Localization through Language Customization

Implementation Process:

To effectively serve the Polish market, BSA GROUP initiated a comprehensive localization process:

1. Language File Extraction: All necessary language files were extracted from both the smartphone application and the smartwatch firmware
2. Professional Translation: Initial automated translation was performed, followed by comprehensive review and refinement by native Polish speakers from our BSA GROUP European team
3. Cultural Adaptation: Terminology and expressions were adapted to align with Polish consumer preferences and cultural context
4. Integration: Polish language was set as the default system language, with the updated software embedded directly into the device’s motherboard
5. Quality Assurance: Extensive testing was conducted to ensure all interface elements displayed correctly in Polish

2. Heart Rate Monitoring System Upgrade

Technical Challenge:

The original heart rate sensor (model HS3330) was identified as outdated and insufficient for European market expectations. This sensor was primarily used in entry-level models and suffered from significant limitations:

• Inability to perform continuous heart rate tracking
• Poor accuracy across diverse skin tones
• Unreliable readings on users with varying physical characteristics
• Lack of advanced features expected by Polish consumers

BSA GROUP Technical Solution:

We upgraded to the VC31 series sensor (Red Light Oximetry technology), delivering substantial improvements:

Advanced Features:

• Skin Tone Adaptation: Integrated skin tone sensor ensuring accurate readings across various skin types, including darker skin tones and users with body hair
• Continuous Monitoring: Real-time heart rate tracking with dynamic adjustments during activities
• False Reading Prevention: Advanced algorithms prevent erroneous data when the watch is removed
• Enhanced Battery Efficiency: Optimized power consumption extending usage time between charges
• Medical-Grade Accuracy: Significantly improved precision meeting European health device standards

This upgrade transformed the heart rate monitoring from basic tracking to a reliable, professional-grade health monitoring tool—addressing potential consumer concerns about data accuracy and reliability.

3. Expanded Sports Modes Portfolio

Enhancement Rationale:

Recognizing the active lifestyle of Polish consumers and the popularity of diverse sports activities in Central Europe, BSA GROUP expanded the S1’s sports tracking capabilities:

Upgrade Details:

• Increased from 12 to 32 sports modes
• Implemented professional-level algorithms for accurate tracking
• Added popular European sports: cycling, skiing, hiking, swimming, and more
• Enhanced GPS tracking for outdoor activities
• Improved calorie calculation algorithms specific to European user profiles

This enhancement aligned perfectly with the sporty aesthetic of the watch while adding substantial value for Polish users seeking comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities.

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Production Process

Initial Sample Development

On March 18, 2022, Robert Kowalski, procurement specialist at BSA GROUP, coordinated a critical meeting with representatives from **Tech (motherboard solution provider) and ***Smart Wear Technology Ltd. (smartwatch manufacturer). The focus of this session was to define and finalize specifications for the initial sample production.

Discussion Topics Covered:

• Material quality standards and European compliance requirements
• Manufacturing processes and quality control procedures
• Specific design modifications and tolerances
• Packaging guidelines suitable for Polish retail environments
• Quality acceptance criteria aligned with MediaMax Poland standards
• Timeline milestones and delivery schedules

All stakeholders reached consensus on specifications, ensuring alignment with project objectives and European market requirements.

Sample Review and Client Approval

By April 10, 2022, after dedicating 25 intensive days to meticulously refine every aspect according to MediaMax Poland’s specifications, the BSA GROUP team succeeded in optimizing the smartwatch to exceed client expectations.

Optimization Achievements:

• Precise data feedback systems tested and calibrated
• Intuitive user interface optimized for Polish users
• Superior wearability experience validated through testing
• Premium aesthetic finish meeting European standards

Throughout this development phase, every design adjustment, functional enhancement, and packaging detail was thoroughly reviewed and confirmed with MediaMax Poland through multiple video consultations and detailed documentation. Following final confirmations, a pre-production prototype was dispatched to MediaMax Poland’s Warsaw headquarters via DHL express for final review and approval.

Order Confirmation and Production Launch

On April 13, 2022, after comprehensive evaluation of the provided samples, MediaMax Poland’s product team expressed high satisfaction with the BEFIT S1 smartwatch. They officially confirmed the purchase order with BSA GROUP, stipulating a delivery timeline of 30 days to their designated logistics provider.

Order Specifications:

• Quantity: 5,000 units (initial production run)
• Delivery: 30 days to designated European logistics center
• Quality Standards: Full compliance with European retail requirements
• Documentation: Complete CE certification and Polish language user manuals

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Project Outcome

The successful collaboration between BSA GROUP and MediaMax Poland resulted in a competitive smartwatch product optimally positioned for the Polish market. The BEFIT S1 smartwatch delivered:

✓ Premium design rivaling leading brands at competitive pricing
✓ Advanced health monitoring meeting European consumer expectations
✓ Complete Polish localization for seamless user experience
✓ Expanded functionality catering to active Polish lifestyles
✓ On-time delivery within aggressive 55-day project timeline
✓ Cost-effective solution maintaining healthy profit margins for retail partner

This case study demonstrates BSA GROUP’s capability to execute complex OEM projects under tight timelines while maintaining European quality standards and delivering exceptional value to retail partners in competitive Central European markets.