Smartwatches for iPhone — Personal Experience and Insights
An in-depth personal review of two distinct smartwatches compatible with iPhone, comparing features, design, and usability to help you make an informed choice.
Presented here is a personal account of selecting and using smartwatches, shared by MacRadar reader Ravil Volkov.
At one point, I faced the challenge of choosing a smartwatch that could notify me about calls, texts, and other events on my iPhone, especially while cycling or driving. I ended up testing two very different models from separate developers, each designed with a unique approach. The first was the Cookoo by ConnecteDevice Ltd., and the second was the Pebble, which was initially funded through Kickstarter. Here's a detailed look at both devices.
The Cookoo watch arrived in an intriguing birdhouse-shaped box. On the wrist, it appears quite rugged and its weight is noticeably felt. The rubber strap can sometimes be uncomfortable and tends to come undone occasionally; during summer, it causes sweating underneath. The watch is entirely metal, with a dial glass built to withstand significant impacts and drops. However, wearing a shirt with tight sleeves alongside the Cookoo watch is impractical.
The standout feature of this smartwatch is its battery setup. It actually has two batteries: one powers the traditional quartz watch, while the other manages notifications received from the iPhone via Bluetooth. This dual-battery system allows it to function as a conventional watch when needed. Though it doesn't offer as many features as the Pebble, it excels in battery life. The watch vibrates for incoming calls, texts, and other alerts. It can also display the iPhone's low battery status, all configurable through the Cookoo – Time to Connect app. Unfortunately, the app is still somewhat unstable and prone to crashes, with user experience that could be improved.
My second smartwatch was the well-known Pebble, which I consider the best option compared to other market alternatives. The packaging is made from recycled paper, as indicated on the box, which is simple but eco-friendly. Inside, you'll find the watch and a charging cable (losing the cable means ordering a replacement from the manufacturer or crafting one yourself, which can be challenging). The watch is marked 'Kickstarter Edition' on the back, sent primarily to early supporters of the project.
Constructed entirely from plastic, including the screen (which unfortunately scratches easily, though newer Pebble versions use Gorilla Glass), the watch feels almost weightless on the wrist. The strap is very comfortable, and the display is visible under bright sunlight and in total darkness thanks to its impressive backlight. The design draws attention, and everyone who sees it asks where I got it and how much it costs.
The customization options are fantastic, with countless watch face themes available for download, and even the ability to create your own. The Pebble’s functionality is extensive: notifications for calls, texts, tweets; music player controls; email synchronization; weather updates; and iPhone GPS data display. However, it still struggles with correctly displaying Cyrillic messages. The Pebble requires charging every three to four days via its magnetic cable, reminiscent of Apple’s MagSafe. Developers consistently update the firmware, enhancing features regularly. The iPhone app is user-friendly and reliable. That's essentially my overview of these smartwatches.
Having used smartwatches for some time now, I can confidently say they are essential. Without one on my wrist, I feel a certain discomfort. Ultimately, it’s a personal choice whether you prefer a stylish traditional watch or a smart, helpful companion. Thank you for reading.
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