The Smart watchesSmartwatches, commonly known as smartwatches, have become one of the most prominent technological devices of the last decade. Driven by the integration of advanced functions and mobile connectivity, these gadgets have evolved from simple digital accessories to complete personal and health assistants. However, their true usefulness remains a matter of debate between those who consider them essential and those who see them as mere "tech toys."
What is a smartwatch really for today?
Wearable technology, and especially smartwatches, has advanced by leaps and bounds. Today, a smartwatch not only allows you to check the time and view notifications, but also integrates a very wide range of functions which can be useful in everyday life, in sports practice, in health and even for personal productivity.
Among the most notable features of today's smartwatches are:
- Smart Notification Management: Allows you to view messages, calls, emails, reminders and alerts directly on your wrist without having to take your phone out of your pocket.
- Physical activity monitoring: They have sensors such as a pedometer, accelerometer, heart rate monitor, GPS, altimeter, gyroscope, and even blood oxygen and blood pressure meters.
- health checkSome models include advanced features such as fall detection, electrocardiograms, sleep tracking, stress monitoring, and sedentary alerts.
- Synchronization and connectivity: Using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or even LTE connectivity, smartwatches can operate autonomously or in sync with your smartphone.
Reasons to buy a smartwatch: advantages and uses
The technological leap of smartwatches has opened up a world of possibilities, not only for those who want to be connected, but also for those who seek improve your well-being, productivity, and safetyBelow, we explore in depth the most relevant reasons to opt for one of these devices.
1. Unlimited connectivity: notifications and calls directly on your wrist
One of the functions most valued by users is the possibility of receive and manage notifications from your watchThis is especially useful in contexts where taking out your phone is inconvenient: meetings, walks, trips on public transport, sports activities, etc. In addition, Some models allow you to reply to messages by voice or through quick responses, as well as make and answer calls thanks to the integration of a microphone, speaker and, sometimes, a SIM or eSIM card.
2. Personal Health Assistant: Advanced Monitoring
Smartwatches have revolutionized self-care and prevention, offering tools such as:
- Heart rate measurement and electrocardiogramMany smartwatches can detect heart rate disturbances and even perform a basic ECG, which helps detect arrhythmias and other heart problems.
- Blood oxygen analysis (SpO2): Monitors oxygen saturation, useful for athletes and to anticipate respiratory problems.
- Sleep tracking: They analyze the different phases of sleep, identifying patterns and possible disorders.
- Fall detection function: Crucial for elderly people or those with reduced mobility. In the event of a fall and unresponsiveness, the watch automatically contacts emergency services.
- Stress monitoring and sedentary alerts: Helps maintain healthy habits by reminding yourself to move or practice relaxation techniques when you detect a high level of stress.
3. Personal trainer on the wrist: physical activity monitoring
For those who practice sports, smartwatches represent a powerful tool:
- Pedometer and step/calorie/distance tracking: Facilitates tracking of daily sports goals and comparing progress over time.
- Integrated GPS: Allows you to accurately record routes for running, cycling, hiking, or even water sports.
- Custom sport modesFrom yoga to triathlon, many smartwatches optimize the recording and analysis of different physical activities.
- Personal motivatorSome models suggest routines, advise rest periods, and send alerts when certain goals are exceeded or missed.
In fact, leading brands such as Garmin, Suunto, Fitbit, Polar, and Apple have developed specific models for high-performance athletes, with advanced metrics and personalized training plans.
4. Security and prevention: beyond the gadget
Personal safety is another compelling argument for choosing a smartwatch:
- Anti-theft and location function: Alerts if you stray too far from your smartphone, useful to prevent forgetfulness or theft.
- Phone search: Tool to quickly locate your mobile phone when you can't remember where you left it.
- Automatic emergency calls: In advanced models, after a fall or abnormal situation, the device can notify predefined contacts or emergency services, sending your current location.
5. Contactless payments and access
Technology's progress NFC has allowed smartwatches to act as contactless payment card Right on your wrist. You can make purchases, validate transportation tickets, access buildings or events, and manage loyalty cards securely and conveniently.
6. Multimedia control and other utilities
Today's smartwatches offer a wide range of additional features:
- Music and camera remote control: Change songs, adjust the volume, or take photos from your phone without touching it.
- Integration with voice assistants: Google Assistant, Siri, or Alexa are present in most models, allowing you to control home devices or instantly access information.
- specialized applicationsFrom checking the weather forecast to reviewing your shopping list, to task management apps, maps, reminders, and much more.
- Visual and functional customization: Interchangeable watch faces, custom backgrounds, widgets, third-party widgets, and even the ability to customize routines to suit your daily needs.
7. Mobile independence
Incorporation LTE / 4G connectivity This has been key for some smartwatches. These models allow you to make calls, send messages, stream music, or use maps. without having to carry your phone with youThis is especially useful when playing sports, during short trips, or when lightness is a priority.
8. Aesthetic and status reasons
In addition to their technical features, smartwatches have managed to position themselves as fashion accessoriesThere are models with high-quality materials (stainless steel, titanium, leather, ceramic, etc.) and collaborations with luxury brands (Apple Watch Hermès, Samsung Thom Browne editions) that turn these devices into symbols of status and customizable style. The ability to interchange straps and digital faces increases the aesthetic versatility to suit any occasion or personal taste.
Limitations of smartwatches: disadvantages and aspects to consider before purchasing
Like any technological product, smartwatches are not without their drawbacks. It's essential to understand and assess these aspects to make an informed decision and avoid an unnecessary impulse purchase.
1. Real needs vs. expectations
The main reason for don't buy a smartwatch It's often related to a lack of real need. Many of its features may only be useful in very specific contexts. If you only want to see the time, occasionally check your step count, or use your phone for everything, the added value of a smartwatch may not be worth the investment.
2. Price: Is it worth the price?
There are very complete smartwatches whose price can be high, especially in premium models from well-known brands. On the other hand, there are more affordable options, from under 30 euros, although they usually involve giving up premium materials, autonomy, integration of advanced apps or top features such as NFC payment or ECG.
3. Limited autonomy
Autonomy is, without a doubt, one of the main weaknesses of smartwatches versus conventional watches. While a traditional watch can run for years on a single battery, most smartwatches require charging every one or two days (at best, a week for optimized or mid-range models). This can be inconvenient for some people, although fast charging and magnetic chargers have made this easier in recent years.
4. Closed ecosystems and compatibility
Some models only work optimally within their own ecosystem (for example, the Apple Watch with an iPhone). If you have a phone from a different brand, certain features may be limited or unavailable. Additionally, operating systems vary (watchOS, Wear OS, Tizen, Harmony OS, etc.), which can be confusing for the uninitiated user.
5. Durability, repairs and obsolescence
Although smartwatches are durable (Gorilla Glass, water and dust protection, and durable materials), their lifespan is affected by software updates and battery wear. It's possible that in a few years, the model may become outdated or no longer receive support.
6. Distraction and excess notifications
If you're someone who likes to disconnect from your phone, a smartwatch can be counterproductive if you constantly receive notifications. Smart notification management and alert customization are essential to avoid increasing the feeling of "hyperconnectivity."
Smartwatch comparison: how to choose the best one for you?
The smartwatch market is increasingly diverse and competitive. When considering a purchase, it's key to consider specific needs, budget and compatibility with your smartphone. Here are some determining factors:
- Compatibility with your mobile and operating system: Make sure the watch works with your smartphone.
- Battery life and screen type: OLED, LCD, AMOLED… Panels with different display qualities and energy consumption levels.
- Materials and design: Choose one that suits your style, durability and preferences (sporty, elegant, casual…).
- Health and sports functionsDo you need ECG or oxygen monitoring? Are you an athlete who needs advanced metrics? Is battery life your priority?
- Price and rangeThere are entry-level, mid-range, and high-end devices, each with different features and qualities.
- Updates and communityAn active ecosystem ensures improvements, new apps, and long-term technical support.
Can I live without a smartwatch? Ideal user profiles
Not all users will benefit equally from a smartwatch. Here are some profiles that can get the most out of it:
- Athletes and active people: Workout tracking, vital signs monitoring, and automatic activity detection are very helpful.
- Elderly, dependent or people with reduced mobility: Fall detection, emergency alerts, and health tracking are critical features.
- Professionals seeking productivity and connectivity: Reminders, calendar management, and notification control optimize your daily life.
- Tech users and enthusiastsTech lovers will enjoy customizing features, watch faces, and apps.
For those who just want to check the time or rarely use their phone, a conventional watch or a basic smart bracelet may be sufficient.
Is the smartwatch a product worth it?
The decision of whether or not to buy a smartwatch It depends largely on your needs, priorities and lifestyle. If you are looking for a device that helps you stay active, connected, safe, and healthy With a customizable design and advanced features, a smartwatch can quickly become your go-to gadget. However, if you only need to check the time and your interaction with your phone is basic, it may not be a worthwhile purchase.
The current trend shows that smartwatches will continue to evolve, incorporating innovative features, improving their battery life, integrating artificial intelligence, and expanding their independence from smartphones. With personalization as their flagship and health as one of their strongest pillars, these devices are destined to gain prominence in our daily lives, both for athletes and for users seeking a balance between connectivity, well-being, and technology.
If you own or have owned a smartwatch, we'd love to hear about your experience and whether you find it truly useful. Leave your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation about the role of smartwatches in modern life.
positively
The article is really accurate. I have the LG and it works very well to read notifications and respond to whars. The rest of the apps are not used in the end.