If you think taking out your Android-powered device out of your pocket or your bag to check who’s calling you or which app sent a notification is too much work, then here’s some good news: you can do all of that just by looking at your watch. Of course, we’re not talking about any type of watch. We’re talking about Sony’s SmartWatch.
What is this sorcery?
The SmartWatch is basically your Android device’s second screen. When it is connected to your Android device, it can receive notifications from some choice apps, tell you who’s calling or texting, show you who’s sent you an email, and even let you control your music player.
Its 1.3-inch OLED display gives you enough space to see the notifications and control the device via multi-touch controls. This color display may not have the quality you would consider perfect, but it is functional and generally, it’s easy on the eyes.
How big is it?
It’s bigger than your average watch but small enough not to call attention to yourself and your weird taste in accessories. The main SmartWatch unit has a clip that holds on to a nice black watchband. The white clip and the black frame and display gives it an elegant yet hip look, but it would have been better if the display and the frame shared the same shade of black for a seamless and sleeker look. With the main unit having 36 mm x 36 mm dimensions and a thickness of 8 mm, you don’t have to worry about it being too bulky because it’s more or less the same size as most large watches.
Features
Other than being your smartphone’s second screen for notifications, the Sony SmartWatch also lets users access SMS messages, emails, and social networking services, specifically Twitter and Facebook. Music player control is not the only way to control your Android device’s features. Basic call controls are also possible via the SmartWatch as you can reject, mute, and take calls using the headset.
How long does the power last?
At full charge, you can use the SmartWatch continuously for one full day. Typical usage will keep the battery running for 3 to 4 days. On standby or low usage, the battery can last up to about a week. You can charge this nifty device through a well-hidden USB slot.
Compatibility
If you’re wondering if this neat device can be paired up with devices that other than those running Android, the answer is no. As for the specific devices themselves, Sony has a complete list on their website. The SmartWatch’s “perfect partners” are Sony’ own Xperia devices but is also compatible with devices from Motorola, Samsung, and HTC.
Usability
Being that the SmartWatch is not your typical everyday device, it may require some time to learn. It can also take a while before you can become comfortable with the gestures required to operate and access the different features and controls of this wonder watch. Unfortunately, some aspects of its usability cannot be saved by familiarity and time, like the fact that clicking on some notifications does not lead you directly to where you expect to go. Basically, this watch just tells you there’s a new missed call or email but it’s up to you to navigate to the actual menu where you can see the missed call or email.
The Bottom Line
With all its neat features that can make your daily life a little bite more efficient, you would think getting there would be easy too. But unfortunately, it’s not as easy as it sounds. It may take a while before you experience the convenience benefits of the Sony SmartWatch. You can get it for $149.99. And oh, did we mention that it can also tell time?
