Smart watches, what can I do with them?

The name ‘smart watch’ (often referred to as a smartwatch) actually speaks for itself. It is a watch with all kinds of smart functions. Think of fun options, such as showing a walking route, but also practical options, such as fall prevention.

A smart watch works together with another device, usually a smartphone, via bluetooth. The smartwatch has a digital screen that shows all kinds of information. For example: an app on the phone is forwarded to the smart watch, which in turn sends all kinds of information to the phone.

One smart watch is not the other. The devices can have very different functions. Nevertheless, they are often classified into four categories, which are classified by the main function of the watch:

• Smartwatch: a general smartwatch is mainly made as an extension of the smartphone. Read apps or get calendar notifications. It is actually a kind of mini smartphone for the wrist.
• Sports watch: keeping track of sports performance is best done with a sports watch. Anyone who swims, runs or practices other sports a lot can measure everything. A sports watch can also provide useful insights when losing weight or during rehabilitation.
• Activity tracker: an activity tracker (English for ‘device to track activities’) monitors health. For example, by measuring heart rate and sleep rhythm or counting steps. Useful to improve well-being. Fall detection is also an option.
• Hybrid watch: A hybrid watch actually looks like a normal watch. But it has all kinds of smart features. Very suitable for people who want a classic watch with smart options.

Many smartwatches are a combination of the above options. It is therefore not the case that an ordinary smartwatch by definition has no sports functions and vice versa.

Smart watches can do many different things. Which functions are present on a specific watch depends on the brand and model. It is therefore good to think about what you want before purchasing, whether the smartwatch works well with your other mobile devices and what you want to spend. These are some of the functions that a smartwatch can have:

• counting steps
• Measure heart rate
• Measuring sleep rhythm
• Show messages
• Record and send messages
• Save route
• Measure condition
• Control music
• Show routes
• fall detection
• Pay

Not to forget: you can of course also read the time on a smart watch.

Most models cost between 70 and 300 euros. There are outliers up and down. The cheapest watches usually have fewer functions. The most expensive watches are luxury design products with extensive options.

Well-known smartwatch makers are Apple, Samsung, Garmin and Fitbit.