The Apple Watch Ultra: Why It Reigns Supreme Among Smartwatches
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The Apple Watch Ultra continues to dominate the smartwatch market, and I have tested several devices, including the Samsung Galaxy 4, TicWatch 3 Ultra, and Google Pixel Watch. While each of these models has its strengths, none compare to the Apple Watch Ultra. Although all these watches offer similar features, Apple has integrated them more effectively into its ecosystem.
In this discussion, I'll explore the four main aspects that solidify my loyalty to the Apple Watch and the Ultra version in particular.
Design Features:
While I appreciate the circular designs of other smartwatches, such as those from Samsung, I find the square shape of the Apple Watch appealing. There are several design elements that distinguish it from other brands:
The Digital Crown:
Not only is the Digital Crown aesthetically pleasing, but it also enhances functionality. It mimics a traditional watch crown, offering a smooth and tactile experience when adjusting settings. This feature allows for quick access to applications and easy zooming in and out.
Other smartwatches, like Samsung's Galaxy line, feature buttons that are functional but lack the premium feel of the Apple Watch’s crown. The Google Pixel Watch also includes a similar crown, but I find it less smooth compared to Apple's.
Action Button:
Exclusive to the Apple Watch Ultra, this customizable side button facilitates quick access to various functions, such as starting a workout or activating the flashlight. This feature is especially handy when you're pressed for time.
Watch Faces:
Though WearOS offers numerous watch face options, I find Apple’s designs to be more aesthetically pleasing and functional, particularly regarding complications. I consistently find Apple Watch faces more visually appealing.
Display:
Beyond its shape, the Apple Watch Ultra's display is notable for its clarity and size. With a 49mm screen and a peak brightness of 2000 nits, it excels in outdoor visibility, far surpassing competitors that often max out at 1000 nits. The larger display allows for enhanced interaction, making the Apple Watch Ultra more versatile than previous models I've owned.
Samsung's Galaxy Watch 5 Pro features a respectable 45mm display, while the Pixel Watch’s 41mm screen feels limited in comparison.
Haptics:
The haptic feedback on the Apple Watch Ultra strikes a perfect balance—not too aggressive, yet strong enough to ensure you don’t miss notifications. Other brands, like TicWatch, tend to have overly strong vibrations that can be disruptive. Conversely, the Pixel Watch performs well in this area, but I still prefer the Apple Watch Ultra's haptics.
WatchOS vs. WearOS:
Apple's WatchOS is far more user-friendly and smooth compared to WearOS. Navigating WatchOS feels intuitive, and it offers features that enhance the overall experience. Here are some functionalities I appreciate about WatchOS that are often lacking in other smartwatches:
Medication Reminders:
As someone who takes daily medication, I find this feature incredibly useful. Notifications on both my iPhone and Apple Watch remind me to take my pills, including details about the dosage.
Focus Modes:
While focus modes are not exclusive to Apple, the integration across all devices is seamless when activated on one device.
Find My iPhone:
This feature is indispensable for those moments when you misplace your phone. Simply swipe up from the watch display to ping your phone, making it easy to locate.
Emergency Services:
Apple has incorporated several SOS features in WatchOS, including Crash Detection, which utilizes sensors to identify if you've been in an accident and contact emergency services. Fall detection is another valuable feature, alerting authorities if you become unresponsive after a fall—ideal for those at risk of seizures.
Smartwatch Features:
A smartwatch serves as an extension of your phone, allowing quick access to notifications and apps without digging through your pockets. My experiences with the following features are far more fluid on the Apple Watch than on other brands:
Notifications:
The presentation of notifications on the Apple Watch is visually appealing, especially with the larger screen. I often find myself replying directly from the watch due to the usability of the keyboard.
Taking Phone Calls:
While not my most frequent action, taking calls on the Apple Watch is a pleasant experience. The call quality is impressive, with clear audio on both ends.
Emails:
Checking emails is convenient on the larger display, making the process feel more integrated compared to other smartwatches.
Reminders (Calendar & To-Dos):
Having Apple’s reminder and calendar apps readily available on the watch eliminates the need for third-party downloads. I can quickly update my lists or create new events, which sync seamlessly across devices.
Voice Assistant:
Though Siri may not be the best voice assistant, it effectively handles tasks like setting timers or jotting down quick notes when my phone is out of reach.
Health and Fitness Features:
While the above functionalities are excellent, the Apple Watch truly shines in health and fitness tracking. The activity rings serve as both motivation and a reminder to stay active.
Health and Fitness Tracking with the Apple Watch Ultra:
Sharing activity data with friends using Apple devices fosters a sense of community and motivation. You can also share health trends and notifications for more detailed insights.
Sleep Tracking:
All Apple Watch models provide sleep tracking, which saw improvements in WatchOS 9, including sleep stages. However, I believe Apple could enhance this feature by introducing a sleep score and readiness score, akin to offerings from Google and Samsung.
Workouts:
The Apple Watch offers a wide array of workouts, providing detailed insights into training zones. It can even detect transitions between activities during triathlons.
Health App:
The Health app on the Apple Watch captures all essential data without requiring additional downloads. I appreciate the ability to tag favorites and easily track my health trends.
Final Thoughts:
While the Apple Watch Ultra's battery life is not the best in its class, it is sufficient to ease concerns about running out of power before bedtime. The inclusion of cellular connectivity as standard adds to its appeal, although other models require an LTE version for this feature.
These elements contribute to my affection for the Apple Watch Ultra and its predecessors. There’s an indescribable quality that keeps me from switching to other brands for long—perhaps it’s the elegant design, seamless integration with Apple devices, or sheer usability. Ultimately, it’s just a joy to use, fulfilling all my needs.
While other smartwatches have their merits, the Apple Watch Ultra remains unparalleled in my experience.