As smartwatches gain more capabilities and we use them for more activities, being able to leave their companion phone behind becomes far more helpful. That's possible thanks to some smartwatches coming with an embedded LTE radio.
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The two major players in LTE-connected smartwatch platforms are Apple, with the Apple Watch running watchOS, and a broader vendor ecosystem reliant on the Wear OS (formerly Android Wear).
LTE Smartwatch Technology
When in range of its paired smartphone, a smartwatch can take calls handed off from the phone. But an LTE-equipped smartwatch doesn't need the smartphone to be anywhere need it in order to work as a phone. Along with calls, the smartwatch can handle text messages and other data from the internet (weather, stocks, sports scores, etc.).
Of course, the size of the smartwatch has some drawbacks such as not having as big of a battery, so calls use up more battery power on the watch than the same call on a smartphone.
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Carriers generally provision LTE-capable smartwatches with a separate data plan and a dedicated phone number, which subordinates to the primary phone number for your account. When someone calls your smartphone, your smartwatch will also ring, and you can place or accept voice calls through its onboard microphone and speakers.
Depending on the vendor, you can pair an LTE-enabled smartwatch with wireless earphones. Pairing an Apple Watch with Apple AirPods, for example, lets you play music and conduct phone conversations using the AirPods rather than the Watch's microphone and speakers.
Are LTE Smartwatches Worth It?
For whatever reason, if bringing along your smartphone is a problem then, yes, you might very well find having LTE on your smartwatch to be worth it.
If you rarely leave your smartphone behind, the extra features of the LTE-enabled smartwatch likely won't be worth the extra cost for the device and the monthly carrier fees.
Not only do you have to pay more for the technology to be in the watch, you also have to pay your current cellular carrier for another line. Typically the charge is one half to one third of the price you pay for your cellphone, but there is a charge and it can add up.
Choices for LTE Smartwatches
You can choose a smartwatch from two major ecosystems—the Apple Watch and a smartwatch running Google Wear.
Devices With watchOS
All currently shipping versions of the Apple Watch offer a variant with LTE as an option. Because of its deep vertical integration, the Apple Watch series of devices pairs perfectly with other Apple hardware, and the platform has nearly 38% of the smartwatch market in North America. Typically Apple charges $100 on top of the price of the Apple Watch to add LTE.
Apple, Inc
Apple releases both LTE and non-LTE versions of the Apple Watch, with a $100 price difference.
Devices With Wear
The Google-developed Wear is a multi-platform smartwatch operating environment optimized for voice commands and swiping. Wear devices ship in several models by a variety of manufacturers, and they work with both Android phones and tablets (many also work with iPhones as well).
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FAQ
How much data does a smartwatch use?
This is hard to answer because each person will use their watch differently. The easy way to answer is to not worry about it since the major carriers, as of publication, use plans that have unlimited data for smartwatches for around $10 a month.
How will people call my smartwatch?
While your cellular carrier (AT&T, Verizon, etc) will technically issue you another phone number dedicated to your smartwatch, your original line will also be forwarded to your smartwatch. So, in theory, you can answer on either device or, while you are away from your smartphone, you can just answer on your watch.
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Smartwatches are a norm these days. They are the perfect accessory for quickly checking notifications, making calls, reading messages, and more without reaching for your phone. They can track your health and even help make payments with just a tap of the device. Over the years, smartwatches have evolved with 4G LTE becoming a popular choice. The ones lacking that feature may sometimes be called GPS smartwatches. Both address specific functionalities, user requirements and come with their own set of advantages. Here is everything you need to know about them.
Prioritizing Connectivity
LTE smartwatches can connect to cellular networks independently, and this makes them more flexible than non-cellular ones. You can make calls, send texts, and even access the internet without a smartphone nearby. These watches are like a mini-smartphone on your wrist. This can be very helpful in many scenarios, like working out where carrying a smartphone can be inconvenient while running or cycling.
Non-cellular smartwatches rely on a connected smartphone for most communication tasks. They lack the independent calling and texting features that LTE smartwatches offer. They are affordable though. If you are ok with your smartphone being around all the time and looking for smartwatches at budget prices, GPS watches are always a better option.
Tracing Accuracy
While GPS is present in most LTE watches, the combination of LTE and GPS allows for more accurate and quicker, up-to-date location tracking. If you are a fitness enthusiast who likes to accurately track your workouts, LTE watches will prove helpful. These watches are also great for travellers, so they don’t have to pull out their smartphones to make calls or answer texts. LTE watches can be also very helpful for parents who want to keep a tab on their children.
GPS watches also offer most of the above-mentioned features, but they need to be connected to a smartphone with an active internet connection. While tracking on GPS is somewhat accurate, for absolute pin-point tracking, LTE watches are most fitness enthusiasts’ preferred option.
App Functionality
With standalone connectivity, LTE smartwatches can support a broader range of apps that require internet access. This opens up possibilities of using app-based services without needing a smartphone around you. You can use apps like Google Maps, and navigate through streets without even taking your phone. Most high-end watches even support music streaming apps like Spotify, Amazon Music and Apple Music. You can even go through social media on such smartwatches.
While GPS smartwatches excel at fitness and location tracking, they may not offer the same range of app support as LTE watches due to their lack of independent internet connectivity. They heavily rely on a smartphone for connectivity which results into limited functionality.
Emergency Assistance
LTE smartwatches often come equipped with emergency features, such as SOS buttons or automatic fall detection. These functionalities can provide peace of mind to users and their loved ones, ensuring timely help in critical situations. While some GPS watches may have this feature, they only work when a smartphone is connected.
Battery Efficiency
Since Bluetooth smartwatches primarily connect to your smartphone for communication and data synchronization, they tend to have better battery life than LTE watches. You won’t need to worry about the device searching for cellular networks. The constant connection to cellular networks can lead to faster battery consumption, requiring more frequent charging. GPS watches also tend to use less data since they only transmit relevant information between the two devices.
When looking for LTE and GPS smartwatches, the choice ultimately comes down to what you are looking for. LTE smartwatches offer enhanced connectivity and a broader range of features, making them suitable for users who value constant communication and app support. They are excellent also choices for fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers who prioritize accurate tracking, battery efficiency, and simplicity.
GPS smartwatches offer nearly all the LTE watches features but at affordable prices. If you are fine with having your smartphone around, these watches are great value for money. If you are looking for a wide range of smartwatches in one place, there can be no better place than Reliance Digital. Here, you’ll find all the major smartwatch brands and models at great prices. You can have a hands-on experience with smartwatches at your nearest Reliance Digital store or also have them home-delivered by ordering from www.reliancedigital.in.
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