So you want to buy a smartwatch?

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Jumia shares pros and cons of buying consumer products. We examine professional and user reviews, speak with enthusiasts and experts to help you make informed consumer decisions.

ABOUT TIME TO GET A SMARTWATCH?

A smartwatch is a portable touchscreen device, designed to be worn around the wrist. It’s a vital smartphone accessory that works like a traditional wrist-watch, but can also notify you of incoming calls, messages, social media updates and track physical activity.

If you think smartwatches are pointless geeky accessories, then think again, as new designs are more sleek and fashionable. 

Here are some things to consider before buying a smartwatch.

Basic or Elaborate

Smartwatches run on one of these two operating systems: Samsung’s Tizen or Google’s Android Wear, whilst Apple smartwatches run exclusively on Apple’s Watch OS.

 

 

Your first consideration before buying a smartwatch should be on what operating system it runs. The simplicity or complexity of a smartwatch is determined by the app on which it runs.

 

 

Basic and Penny-wise

If all you need in your smartwatch are notifications of calendar events, emails, incoming calls and text. The Pebble smartwatch is your best buy, with prices starting at N82, 000. Other functionalities include health and sleep tracker, as well as a built-in microphone for voice notes and replies.

Pebble Smartwatch

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Elaborate and Fashionable

This is when you take your smartwatch to the next level. Not only do these watches have additional functionalities such as GPS tracking, coloured touch-screen, voice-command, mobile payments and voice call, they are also designed to be a fashion accessory. Smartwatches like Samsung’s Gear SeriesFitbit and Apple’s Watch Series which range from N116, 000 – N200, 000, tick all the boxes.

Other things to consider.

Compatibility: Before you go on a spending splurge make sure the smartwatch you are considering is compatible with your smartphone, as some smartwatches can only pair with a limited number of smartphones.

Battery-Life: Depending on usage and technology sophistication, the battery life of smartwatches can last anywhere from 1 day to 1 week. Smartwatches with more sophisticated technology will often need to be charged more than others. Ensure the smartwatch you are considering meets your battery needs.

Waterproof: Some smartwatches can be worn during sporting activities like swimming to monitor physical activity. Check the specifications of the watch you are considering if this feature is important to you.

Garmin Vivoactive HR – GPS Waterproof Smartwatch

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Get a variety of smartwatches on Jumia.

 

Article written by COCO.