Are SmartWatches A Necessary Product?

We’ve had smartphones for many years now. Tablet computers are more popular than ever before, and Google are even in the final stages of development for a pair of glasses that will keep you connected to the internet without needing to be on a handset whenever you’re on the move.

If you thought the push for unique technology and consumer electronics stopped there, then you’re wrong. The Sony Smartwatch has been available since last year, with the Smartwatch 2 reportedly set for release imminently.

It is also widely known that Apple is planning to release an ‘iWatch’ in the near future. With the latest technology continually moving to more diverse devices, we decided to look at what these two products, in particular, bring to the user, and ask the question of whether they’re necessary.

Sony SmartWatch 2

The Sony SmartWatch 2 will be compatible to use with any Android phone running version 4.0 or later. Unlike smartphones, however, the SmartWatch 2 won’t need charging once a day if you’re using it regularly, with battery life set to be up to 7 days if you use the watch sparingly. The big question is whether anyone would have the watch at all if they wanted to use it sparingly.

Features include being able to accept and reject calls, although you’ll then need to grab your phone from your bag or pocket, or use a Bluetooth headset, to actually speak to the person. In addition, users can access their emails, text messages, Twitter and Facebook feeds, and use other applications specifically developed to be used with the watch.

iWatch

Because it is an Apple product, the iWatch is hotly anticipated, and reports from over the weekend suggest that research and development have stepped up a gear into this product.

Image Licensed Under Attribution

Unfortunately, there aren’t any concrete confirmations from Apple, or indeed anything about potential release dates, although knowing Apple, they’ll either spring a surprise and say, “Here it is, it launches next week,” or have the big build up designed to generate interest and pick up pre-sale orders to prevent people buying the Sony SmartWatch or other alternatives.

What we’ve heard about the iWatch, however, is that we can expect to see curved glass, and that it could well include features including Siri and Apple Maps. The Siri function, in particular, could be one to watch, especially if it allows you to control your phone remotely for all manner of functions. However, users shouldn’t expect an iPhone in a watch; it just isn’t going to happen.

Other Competitors

While we know that most of the big technology companies are looking at watch technology, only Samsung have so far ‘broken cover’ and admitted there’s a definite product in the works, while products like the Pebble SmartWatch continue to be developed, and LG remain coy about their plans, although they’ve indicated they have something in the pipeline.

Do You Need One?

Everyone is going to ask whether this is technology just for the sake of it. The key to the success of these watches, one feels, will be what they can bring independent of using them alongside a smartphone.

Aesthetics will also be an issue, too; if a watch looks like a shrunk down phone and not a stylish accessory, who is likely to wear one?

    Jonathan

About the Author:

Jonathan is a technology enthusiast eagerly awaiting the 'smartwatch wars' that appear inevitable in the near future. In the meantime, Jonathan is researching web hosting technology and specifically how companies like JaguarPC are making an impact across the industry.