Smartwatches were first introduced in 2010 and many tech experts said that they would not become popular as they are very costly and are not very useful.
However, when Pebble released its smartwatch in 2013 with record funding on Kickstarter and sold 1 million units, smartwatches started gaining popularity.
Currently, the smartwatch market is substantial and growing day by day. With increasing demand and competition, smartwatch brands are introducing many innovative and useful features in their products. There are various benefits of smartwatches for gaining popularity.
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Types of Smartwatches
There are many types of smartwatches available in the market and it might be a bit confusing to choose which will suit your need the best. You can also read the pros and cons of this amazing gadget in the given link.
If you are planning to buy a smartwatch then this article will surely help you, as here we have tried to explain various types of smartwatches based on different niches.
#1 Android Smartwatches
Android smartwatches stand out as versatile companions on your wrist. These types of smartwatches run on wearOS, offering a world of convenience and functionality. With wearOS, you can enjoy multiple apps, receive notifications, track your fitness goals, and even control your smartphone right from your wrist.
An excellent example of an Android smartwatch is the Fossil Gen 5. With its sleek design and wearOS compatibility, it boasts features like heart rate tracking, GPS, and access to a wide range of apps. Another remarkable contender is the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, delivering a seamless Android experience with wearOS. Its fitness tracking, customizable watch faces, and advanced health monitoring make it a true powerhouse.
#2 Standalone Smartwatches
Standalone smartwatches utilize LTE or cellular networks, functioning independently as full-fledged smartphones. These timepieces empower you to place calls, send messages, enjoy music, and utilize diverse apps without tethering to a smartphone.
This liberation from constant smartphone presence elevates standalone smartwatches beyond standard smartwatches. Noteworthy brands like Apple with their latest Watch Series 8 and Samsung’s Galaxy 5 offer these innovative standalone smartwatches, revolutionizing the way we connect and engage.
#3 Rugged Smartwatches
Rugged smartwatches prove exceedingly valuable for individuals who engage in outdoor activities.
They feature a durable body that is shock-resistant and equipped with IP certifications such as IP68 or IPX8. Moreover, they hold ATM ratings like 5ATM or 10ATM, enabling them to endure even deep water dives.
In addition, these smartwatches boast built-in GPS functionality, which proves immensely beneficial during outdoor exploration. Furthermore, they offer impressive battery life. Notable examples of true rugged smartwatches include the Garmin Fenix Series, Casio WSD-F20A, Amazfit T-Rex, and Carbinox Watch. It’s important to note that these smartwatches generally carry a higher price tag compared to others.
#4 GPS Smartwatches
GPS smartwatches are equipped with advanced GPS technology, allowing users to accurately track their movements, whether it’s for fitness purposes or outdoor adventures. These watches are considered premium as they do not rely on the phone’s GPS.
The built-in GPS enables precise distance and location tracking during workouts, helping users monitor their progress and set new goals. Additionally, GPS smartwatches often provide route mapping, for cyclists, and hikers who seek new paths and trails. They work more like a custom smartwatch.
Some noteworthy examples of GPS smartwatches include the Garmin Epix series, the Apple Watch with GPS capabilities, and the Suunto 9. These devices cater to a wide range of users, from professional athletes to casual fitness enthusiasts.
#5 PPG Smartwatches
PPG watches use Photoplethysmography (PPG) tech to measure blood flow, showing insights into health aspects like heart rate and stress. This sensor is quite common and you can find it in most smartwatches.
Not just heart rate they can also track sleep, estimate blood oxygen, and offer fitness insights. For stress tracking these sensors on the watch detect changes in blood volume under your skin, tracking heart rate and reactions to stress.
PPG smartwatches pioneer tech merging with health awareness. They give real-time health tracking and insights, helping individuals steer their health journey and talk smartly with medical pros.
Remember, PPG smartwatches add insights, not replace medical advice.
Familiar options are Fitbit Sense, Apple Watch Series 7, and Amazfit.
#6 ECG Smartwatches
ECG smartwatches are the perfect blend of technology and health tracking, transforming how we manage heart well-being.
These watches can record your heart’s electrical activity, helping detect irregular rhythms. This feature, known as an Electrocardiogram (ECG), goes beyond heart rate tracking.
Using sensors on the watch’s surface, ECGs are easily generated. Some watches even do this automatically if irregularities are sensed. Generally, these watches are a bit costlier compared to PPG Smartwatches.
Famous options like Apple Watch Series 8 with ECG, Samsung Galaxy Watch, and Withings Move ECG highlight this trend.
Remember, while ECG smartwatches offer valuable information, professional medical advice remains crucial.
#7 NFC Enable Smartwatch
NFC-enabled smartwatches seamlessly merge technology with convenience, reshaping how we interact with the world around us.
These watches come with Near Field Communication (NFC) capabilities, allowing them to communicate with other NFC-enabled devices, like smartphones and payment terminals.
With NFC Watches you can make contactless payments, like tapping your watch to pay for your coffee!
But NFC-enabled smartwatches offer more than just payments. They can also store information like transit passes, access cards, and loyalty cards, making your wrist a digital hub for daily activities.
Popular examples of NFC-enabled smartwatches include the Apple Watch 8, Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, and Fitbit Versa 4. These devices showcase how tech integration can simplify our lives.
Remember, while NFC adds convenience, it’s important to keep your digital security in mind.
#8 Camera Smartwatches
These watches are equipped with built-in cameras that allow you to snap photos and record videos directly from your wrist.
While not as powerful as your smartphone camera, they come in handy for video calling, taking pictures, and can be incredibly useful in emergency situations!
The Samsung Gear 2 is a notable camera smartwatch with a 2MP sensor, and a Chinese brand, Zeblaze, has recently launched the Thor 6 smartwatch with dual cameras.
Keep in mind, though, that while camera smartwatches offer convenience, privacy considerations are important when using built-in cameras.
#9 Hybrid Smartwatches
The hybrid type of smartwatch is like traditional mechanical watches but with some smart features to break the limitations of a traditional watch. These watches are also known as hybrid watches.
These smartwatches also require a connection to a smartphone but come with small displays and limited functionalities.
Typically, they offer basic functions such as notifications and call alerts. Fossil Q Commuter and Garmin vivomove 3s serve as perfect examples of hybrid smartwatches.
#10 Sports Smartwatches
Sports smartwatches are meticulously crafted to cater to the needs of fitness enthusiasts. With built-in GPS and an array of sports modes, these smartwatches are your ultimate companions for tracking fitness metrics during activities like running, hiking, swimming, cycling, and more.
Beyond activity tracking, sports smartwatches offer an array of features including sleep monitoring, sedentary reminders, heart-rate monitoring, and a variety of sensors for comprehensive health monitoring.
If you’re passionate about sports, consider notable options like the Apple Watch Nike+ Series and Garmin Forerunner series.
These smartwatches are designed to fuel your active lifestyle and provide valuable insights into your fitness progress.
#11 Kids smartwatches
Kids’ smartwatches offer more than just timekeeping. They feature adorable designs and come in attractive styles, all while serving a vital purpose in ensuring children’s safety.
With SIM card slots and the use of GPS, GLONASS, and other positioning methods, these watches can track your child’s movements. Parents can establish safety zones, receiving alerts if their kids venture beyond these boundaries.
Additionally, these smartwatches boast emergency SOS features, allowing children to send alerts during critical situations. Xiaomi Mi Rabbit and VTech Kids Smartwatches stand out as excellent choices for safeguarding your child.
#12 Women Smartwatches
Women’s smartwatches are designed to keep the various needs of women in mind.
These watches boast feminine and fashionable designs while catering to women’s unique health requirements. With dedicated health apps, they assist in tracking menstrual cycles, estimated ovulation days, and more.
Going beyond aesthetics, women’s smartwatches also act as health companions. They monitor overall well-being, including stress levels, and provide recommendations for relaxation exercises.
Moreover, these smartwatches support NFC Pay and offer safety features like SOS, enhancing convenience in women’s lives. Their lightweight build complements the smaller wrists of women perfectly.
For those seeking both style and substance, consider renowned options like Garmin lily, Kate Spade Scallop 2 and Misfit Phase. These women’s smartwatches not only adorn the wrist fashionably but also offer an array of features to cater to modern women’s needs.
#13 Spy Camera Watches
Hidden camera smartwatches feature advanced cameras cleverly concealed within their displays. These innovative watches empower you to discreetly capture high-quality videos and snap HD pictures with just a press of a side button.
Equipped with a night vision camera, these smartwatches ensure clear recordings even in low-light conditions. Additionally, their extended battery life guarantees prolonged recording sessions on a single charge.
Noteworthy options in this category include the Binrrio Hidden Camera and CIGONG Smartwatch, both renowned for their discreet camera capabilities.
FAQ:-
What is the most common smartwatch?
The Apple Watch is one of the most common and popular smartwatches on the market.
What are the types of smartwatches?
Smartwatches come in various types, including fitness-focused, lifestyle-oriented, and hybrid models that combine traditional watch elements with smart features.
What smartwatch does everything?
There's no single smartwatch that does everything, but high-end models like the Apple Watch Series 8 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 offer a wide range of features including health tracking, app support, notifications, and more.
How do I choose a good smartwatch?
To choose a good smartwatch, consider factors like compatibility with your phone's operating system, desired features (fitness tracking, notifications, etc.), design, battery life, and budget.
Hope you get some idea of the various type of smartwatches with this article. If you have any queries you can ask below in the comment.
