The Apple Watch 2
Smart watches, do we really need them? Why is
there a market for
them in the tech world? When Smart watches were first introduced, they seemed like a gimmick to most people, a
marketing ploy some would say alas that did not remain the case Smart watches have become a welcome addition to
most peoples tech arsenal and they do have their uses. What do people seek more than anything when it comes to
the progression of technology? Bigger and better things, Wrong! Contrary to popular belief that is not the main
concern of most people, they want smaller things and increased ease of use as well as new innovations. A watch
is a common place item that most people use. If you turn that into a technological innovation that can handle
simple tasks like reading messages and receiving notifications, people will surely be attracted to it. So, today
I write about the Apple Watch 2 in the hopes that it will help prospective buyers and educate people about
Apple’s take on the Smart watch game.
Apple has
attempted to build on
the platform provided by the original Apple Watch with the release of the Apple Watch Series 2.
Design
·
Water-resistant chassis allows for swimming
·
1mm thicker than previous model, which isn't noticeable
·
Aluminum, stainless steel and ceramic models now available
Screen
·
New brighter screen is easy to read in any conditions
·
Water-resistant mode is smart
·
Sharpness is excellent for all tasks
Performance
·
Faster dual-core processor feels snappier
·
New Watch OS features are useful
·
Breathe is a really great idea on a wearable
These features make the new apple watch 2 much
better than its predecessor. It is built to withstand pressure until a maximum depth of 50 meters so you'll
be okay if you decide to take a swim to cool off or pass a very boring day.
The new ‘wet mode’ also unlocks the display of the Apple Watch Series 2 and disables touch functionality
when activated. This prevents functions from being unintentionally activated while swimming.The
dual-core S2 CPU is around 50 percent faster than the processor included in the original Apple Watch, while
the GPU responsible for handling the visual display is twice as fast as
its
predecessor.
Which means it boots up more quickly, and overall just delivers a slick user experience; probably the
best among smart watches available on the market. Its new brighter screen makes it much easier to read in
any lighting conditions. The original Apple watch wasn't quite known for its display performance. The Apple
watch series 2 portrays a 1.65-inch
screen with the 390 x 312 OLED display maintaining the attractive visage from the first release. With the
Watch Series 2 now capable of 1000 nits, the improvement in clarity is certainly tangible. And Apple’s
utilization of OLED means that black backgrounds are turned off when not in use, ensuring that the
brightness of the display is preserved, as well as the battery life of the device.
The
accuracy of tracking in the Series 2 is also somewhat improved over the original Apple Watch. The heart rate
monitor is also far better than the first Apple Watch, but is still slightly inaccurate due to
inconsistencies in heart rate measurements made via the wrist.
Its
new operating system watchOS3
encompasses a wide range of new features and improvements, many of which aim to improve the way that users
interact with the Apple Watch itself. New functions such as SOS Emergency attempt to expand the variety of
uses that the Apple Watch Series 2 delivers.
There is also an increased focus on music, with
2GB made available for storage. Navigation has been made considerably more convenient.
The battery life itself has been improved to
two days use on a single charge. But note that the GPS tracking does drain it more rapidly.
My take on the Apple watch series 2 is that is
undoubtedly one of the best smart watches in the market with its new water proof feature; it expands users’
experiences as well as proves its durability and flexibility. The performance is undoubtedly exceptional as
well. Apple has made a smart watch not a luxury, but now a necessity with its upgraded GPS fitness tracking.
But, is it worth that hefty price tag?
This is Mikias Tenalem from ICT, signing off.
Edited by: Kerod from ICT.