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Johannesburg - Chinese manufacturer Huawei has released one of the most functional smartwatches to the market – the Watch 2.
The Watch 2 could easily be mistaken for a regular watch, as its design - with subtle branding - is reminiscent of a wristwatch.
The Watch 2 runs the Android Wear 2 operating system, allowing for more functionality as well as handy apps.
One of the most useful features of the device is that it houses its own nano SIM card, allowing the user to operate the watch independently from the smartphone it is paired to.
Calls can be made and received from the smartwatch itself and with a messaging app installed, the user can reply to emails, WhatsApp messages and texts – all from the wrist.
One issue is that call volume tends to be slightly softer, coupled with the disadvantage of always being on speaker mode, unless paired with a Bluetooth headset.
Replying to messages also becomes tedious on the smaller display. Nevertheless, the smartwatch offers the convenience of being able to perform such tasks without the need for picking up a smartphone.
When paired with Google Now, the user is able to instruct the smartwatch to make calls to specific contacts and play music from the smartphone and the watch itself through the built-in speaker.
Exercising while wearing the Watch 2 offers the convenience of being connected to a smartphone without needing to carry it along, making it ideal for running. When paired with a Bluetooth headset, the device is great for a jog and listening to music.
It also features an all-day heart-rate monitor, and of course numerous apps are downloadable to the device through Google Play. The Watch 2 caters for various workout routines.
Although it is difficult to download music and requires a R60 per month subscription to Google Play Music, the Watch 2 offers 4 gigabytes of internal storage to save tracks directly to the device without the need for streaming.
Downside to the Watch 2 is that it has a very short battery life similar to that of a smartphone, leaving the user with an extra device to charge every day. It is also slightly hefty on the wrist to accommodate the technology in it.
