Wearable technology is what is now and next. Most tech brands have either released at least one wearable tech product during the last year, or they are in the process of creating one. As our lifestyles become busier, it is important to have gadgets that can help improve our lives as well as help with tasks. I was sent the Sony SmartWatch 2 for my honest review, and have been using it the past week on a daily basis so that I could get a feel for the device.
The Sony SmartWatch 2 is Android based and works with Android devices only (sorry iOS lovers). To set up the SmartWatch 2, all you need to do is have the watch and an Android device with NFC touch. Once this happens, the SmartWatch 2 is set up and ready to use. If you don’t have an NFC enabled Android device, you can utilize Bluetooth for the setup process.
I paired the SmartWatch 2 with Motorola’s Moto X, and it was pretty much seamless after that.
The SmartWatch 2, like other devices of its kind, basically works as an accessory to your phone. You can get on Facebook, Twitter, and other social networks, check email, and perform other tasks that your smartphone also does. One reason why wearable tech is so popular is that is is a companion piece to your phone, and you can wear it pretty unobtrusively. Working out is hard to do with a smartphone—with with a Sony SmartWatch 2, you can still be plugged in while getting your fitness on. And, check this—the device is water resistant and is sunlight readable.
The Sony SmartWatch 2 will also allow you to take phone calls, which can leave you hands-free to do other things.
Because the Sony SmartWatch 2 uses Bluetooth, you do have to have your phone near for it to work (much like other Bluetooth enabled devices).
I found the SmartWatch 2 to be a fun device that is pretty easy to setup and use. The size of the watch is pretty standard for other watches like it on the market, and it felt comfortable to wear. I also see it being a pretty nice travel companion as you want to keep your phone in your pocket or purse, but still have access to it.
The only negatives I would say about the device is the following:
- Because the Sony SmartWatch 2 utilizes the Sony Smart Connect platform (to download), the apps were limiting. The social media selections were plentiful, but other than that, there wasn’t much variety in terms of available applications. In order to compete with Samsung, Sony is going to have to have more to offer (I am not sure if you are able to sideload apps, I’ve heard that you can and can’t).
- The Facebook useability was iffy. I kept having to re-synch my Facebook in order for me to get my updates. I am not sure if this was just an issue I had or one that is prevalent amongst other users.
The positives are that I didn’t experience any lag (something I know other devices of its kind experience). I also got major battery life. I’ve been using it for a week and haven’t charged it once, and I still have major juice.
I would recommend the Sony SmartWatch 2 to someone who is an active person and who wants to be plugged in whether without always having to look at their phone. I found it to be easy to use and fun to showoff to others. It retails for $199.99 and there are other colored wristband choices that can be purchased separately, if you want to show some personality.
This is not a sponsored nor compensated post. The opinions expressed belong to me and are not indicative of the brand/company mentioned.
This reminds me of the Galaxy Gear. Great review. Not charging it for a whole week is impressive.
Thanks for commenting, Kim. I think that the Sony SmartWatch 2 is a great alternative to Galaxy Gear. It is very easy to use. Fun, too.
Does watch have any fitness related features or apps, I.E. heart rate monitor, pedometer, etc.? Also what is resolution of the display?
Had the same question as Derrick. I have a Sony phone so maybe they can sync up somewhat.. Thanks for the review.
Hi Val. I am researching Derrick’s question on resolution of display. In the meantime, you don’t have to have a Sony phone for it to pair with the SmartWatch 2. It works with most Android phones. And yes, there is a health app you can use with the watch. Thanks for commenting.
Hi Val. I am researching Derrick’s question on resolution of display. In the meantime, you don’t have to have a Sony phone for it to pair with the SmartWatch 2. It works with most Android phones. And yes, there is a health app you can use with the watch. Thanks for commenting.