Apple watch series 2 review
Apple regularly updates its product lineup. So it was with the smart watch: the first generation Apple Watch Series 1 was replaced by improved Apple Watch Series 2. The main rate in this version was made on fitness functions, user health data, built-in GPS and amazing waterproof performance. Noticeable changes have been made to the functional: this watch can do much more than the previous version. Despite the fact that the design has remained almost unchanged, the filling has changed significantly. In our review, we look at the Apple Watch S2 in all major aspects, highlighting the advantages and annoying shortcomings of the gadget.
Content
Specifications
Apple Watch Series 2 | |
operating system | WatchOS 3 |
Compatibility | iOS 8 and up |
Mobile support | iPhone 5 and up |
Body material | Aluminum |
Bracelet material | Silicone |
Bracelet color | White, gray stone, pink sand, black, dark blue |
Glass | aluminosilicate glass Ion-X |
Moisture protection | Yes, waterproof WR50 (diving up to 50 m deep) |
Screen | OLED, 1.5 ”, 272 × 340 / 1.65”, 312 × 390 |
Camera | Not |
Multimedia | Play audio and video, microphone, speaker, transfer sounds to Bluetooth devices |
Connection | Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fi (802.11b / g / n, 2.4 GHz), NFC |
Sensors | Accelerometer, gyroscope, heart sensor, ambient light sensor |
CPU | S2 |
The number of processor cores | 2 |
Built-in memory | 8 GB |
Nutrition | Built-in Li-Ion battery, operating time 18 hours, there is a charging cable with a magnetic mount |
Dimensions, mm | 38,6×33,3×11,4
42,5×36,4×11,4 |
Additionally | Built-in GPS, voice control, Apple Pay, Siri, Taptic Engine, atomic clock synchronization, viewfinder for iPhone 5 and above |
Apple Watch Series 2
Design and appearance of the case
The package bundle is similar to the first-generation watch: an oblong white box with a logo, inside there is a case and additional elements. In total, the package includes the watch itself, wireless induction charging with USB, a second strap and documentation with operating instructions.
The appearance of the Apple iWatch 2 is minimally different from its predecessor. Before us is a rectangular dial with softly rounded corners and two buttons on the side. On the back of the case are a heart rate monitor, a button to unstick the bracelet, a speaker hole and a microphone. By the way, unlike Apple Watch 1 there are two microphone holes, which greatly improves the quality of voice recording. Visually, this watch looks more impressive, because the case thickness is now 11.4 mm.
In aesthetic terms, the user of the gadget opens a huge selection of colors straps and body. In addition to the standard silicone strap, designed more for sports, you can choose nylon, leather or steel. Thus, Apple developed bracelets for all occasions: for home, work, gym (Apple Watch Sport). For fans of the Nike brand, branded straps with a logo and large openings are released (Apple Watch Nike + collection).
Another characteristic feature of the second version was the appearance of watches from ceramics. Ceramic Apple Watch of the second series look expensive and attractive, but they need to be handled very carefully.In particular, protect from impacts and falls in order to prevent serious damage to the casing, cracks and scratches. User also available stainless steel watch (Hermès collection).
On a note! For all models of the second generation, the back panel is made of ceramic, whereas in the previous version composite material was used.
Control
Two elements are responsible for managing the gadget: Digital Crown wheel and side button. True, now the wheel is intended only for scrolling and scrolling, the appearance of the application menu and the transition to the main screen. The side button brings up the Dock menu, which contains widgets for all installed applications. The rest of the navigation interface via touch screen. You can scale the image, increase the font, one-touch touch screens and in the same way switch from one dial to another. Management is simple, even an inexperienced user who has never previously interacted with Apple technology will figure it out.
Screen features
The size and resolution of the display of Apple Watch 2 remained the same as in the first generation: 38 mm (resolution 272 × 340 pixels) and 42 mm (312 × 390 pixels). The screen is equipped embedded AMOLED-matrix, therefore the picture will immediately impress the user with its brightness and saturation. All colors look natural, and the text is read without problems. Whatever viewing angle is chosen, the image on the screen remains of high quality. Subtle blue hues appear only if you look at the clock at a very sharp angle.
It is worth noting that the screen is two times brighter than the previous watch from Apple. Brightness (1000 cd / m²) is automatically adjusted in conjunction with a light sensor. This option is customized to the taste and preferences of the user. When changing the external conditions of illumination, the screen brightness becomes higher, and decreases in the event that the level of illumination changes (for example, from sunlight to artificial).
Important! The screen is resistant to scratches and damage, there is a reliable anti-shock protection. The role of protection in standard models performs ion glass Ion-X, in models of ceramics and stainless steel - sapphire.
There is also a nice backlight that can be left overnight, turning the gadget into a compact desktop clock.
Main functions
In this version, the manufacturer took into account the shortcomings of previous generations, presenting the next improved version.However, in their functions, Apple Watch Series 2 is not much different from its predecessors.
- Connect to Iphone via Bluetooth. Thanks to synchronization with your smartphone, you can download the necessary applications, quickly receive alerts about new calls and messages.
- Reading email.
- Opportunity download native applications without connecting to a smartphone.
- Siri voice assistant, ready to respond to any user request.
- Advanced Dock Menu. To run the desired application, it is not necessary to go to the main menu. It is enough to call the Dock by briefly pressing the side mechanical button. The Dock displays thumbnails of recently launched and pinned applications. It is useful to fix those applications to which you regularly access and want to have it “at hand” all the time.
- Dial Switch System. In addition, in this version of the watch dials has become even more (for example, added dynamic dials with jellyfish and Minnie Mouse)
- News Notifications peace, invitations, meetings, etc.
- Convenient calendar, helping to plan your important affairs.
- To navigate the terrain, you will no longer need to connect to the smartphone, as Apple Watch 2 series are equipped built-in GPS module. Innovation will delight people who are actively involved in sports, travel a lot, walk, love to explore new places, go hiking, etc.
Additional features
Separately, I would like to note the expanded opportunities for sports and taking care of their own health. Hours easily calculate the number of lost calories, measure the pulse in a state of excitement and rest, help restore breathing. A smartphone is no longer needed to track physical activity, because these smart watches are fully capable of working autonomously.
Fitness features
For fitness appeared two useful applications: the first one contains exercises for breathing exercises, the second one measures heart rate. The user can track the dynamics of heart rate fluctuations and get daily statistics. Information about the pulse will help in time to notice changes in health and consult a doctor without delay. To obtain data on well-being, there is the Health app on iPhone 5 and above. The application stores all the information from the sensor-heart rate monitor.
Another innovation: new training regimes have been added to this version of the watch, for example, “swimming in the pool "and" swimming in open water".On the suitability of hours for use under water - in the next paragraph.
Water resistant
The news that the watches of the second series were waterproof, led to a real delight of fans of the brand. The gadget has acquired a waterproof case with an integrated speaker that repels moisture. If the predecessors had only splash protection, then this gadget can be easily immersed in water (fresh and sea) to a depth of 50 m. You do not need to worry about the mechanism. New watches are suitable for swimming, surfing, and just taking a shower.
Performance and autonomy
The processor in the Apple Watch Series 1 - S1P, in the second generation S2. Both are dual cores. However, the smart watch from Series 2 processor is more powerful, more productive, therefore, the user gets more efficient work,improved graphics and overall excellent computing power. The internal memory here is 8GB, which is enough for applications and a small amount of music.
Apple has provided for Series 1 and Series 2 around 18 hours of active work from one battery charge. With a moderate intensity of work, according to the owners, the charge will last even for a couple of days. The battery is a lithium-ion, non-removable, manufacturer, as usual, does not disclose information about the capacity. The battery life is affected by various parameters: the duration of phone calls, the number of notifications received during the day, GPS turned on, music or video playback, the display brightness level, workout modes and other applications that eat the built-in memory and the battery itself.
Advantages and disadvantages
A review of the Apple Watch Series 2 would be incomplete without analyzing the main advantages and disadvantages of the model. So, summing up, before you buy a product.
- improved software and powerful processor on board;
- comfortable dial;
- built-in GPS-navigator;
- water tightness;
- advanced features of the side buttons on the body;
- thoughtful menu Dock;
- the appearance of a ceramic watch model;
- large selection of straps for every taste.
- strong orientation towards sports functions, which means that people who are not leading the most active lifestyle will not be interested in working with this gadget;
- there is no cell phone module, the watch functions only in conjunction with the iPhone;
- body thickness.
Important! The price of a smart watch varies depending on the selected variation. So, Apple Watch with a dial diameter of 38 mm cost from 23,850₽ (with a silicone bracelet). For hours larger (42 mm) will have to pay an average of 25 200 ₽.
Conclusion
With the advent of the second generation of watches, the company has made a big step forward in the world of sports gadgets. Apple Watch 2 is able to measure heart rate, count steps and calories burned, as well as organize water workouts, build tracks during runs, save all the results. Watch can be safely recommended to fans of sports and fitness, all young and active people who appreciate the convenience, style and wealth of functions in one small device.
Apple Watch Series 2