Sep 7

Sep 7 One Week with an Android Smartwatch Review

Smartwatches are not new, however the devices are still not mainstream. Partly due to cost, but also due for a lack of understanding as to there benefits.

One week ago, I finally parted with some cash, and choose a Sony Smartwatch 3, So I could understand If a Smartwatch was for me.

Firstly, the Sony Smartwatch 3 is neither the newest device on the market, or the most prettiest. It does have good specs in comparison with newer models. On board is Wi-Fi, GPS, microphone, 4 GB of storage and 512 mb of ram. Missing in comparison with other devices is heart rate monitor and a speaker, however I could think of nothing worse than messages being read to we from my wrist, I’d of likely of switched of a speaker on another device.

One week on, the Sony Smartwatch has not changed my life and has very limited productivity benefit. Apart from activity tracking the device is very much a now device. The main use appears to be either replying to or dismissing messages or notifications.

SMS/Text took a little while to set-up. My HTC 10 was configured to use the default messaging app, however to use voice reply and predefined responses, the default messaging app needs to be configured to Google Hangouts. Once set up, I have been impressed as to how well the voice to text works. It has made texting safer when it is not appropriate to use the phone.

Clearing mail is easy. Controlling audio media the same.

I’m waiting to get on the golf course with the Sony Smartwatch 3, the demos I have seen of the Swing by Swing app look very interesting.

So now to the two functions that have convinced me to keep the Sony Smartwatch 3 on my wrist.

Activity Tracking – I know I need to exercise and move more. The Sony Smartwatch 3 is an easy way to measure movement, and with integration with Google Fit, it has replaced my Mi Band and Fitbit, and so far is an easier, more user friendly way to track steps.

Pedestrian Navigation – I’m a huge fan of Google Maps driving directions, however have always felt concussion of using the phone or directs when walking. Having walking directions on my wrist, buzzing with alerts when turns are required is a great benefit.

There are prettier smartwatches, however the Sony Smartwatch 3 is the value for money purchase.

Overall I feel I have got value for my purchase, and that might also say a lot about smart watches. I paid £85/€100 for my device, which included a retailer discount. This price makes a Smartwatch a more functional activity tracker. Whilst I appreciate the Apple Watch and devices like the LG Urbane are more stylish, I’m not sure they have enough functionality to justify the designer price.