Apple’s Watch is going to be a hit. A big hit.
You see, smart watches are old news to us Android fans. I’ve been using a Moto 360 for 5 months. I love it.
The first thing about a smart watch is that it is a complimentary device. It replaces nothing. It will not replace your smart phone. It’s usefulness is extremely limited. For almost every task, your phone is going to be your go-to device.
For most of the day, my Moto 360 has a blank screen. This is fine. There’s no need to display something I’m not looking at.
If a smart watch isn’t going to replace your phone, why get one?
The answer is that it is a fantastic complimentary device. I don’t receive all messages on my watch. I receive priority messages from contacts. Listserv chatter can wait. My wife telling me I have to pick up a sick kid from school – can’t.
Parts of my week are spent in meetings, in court, and at depositions. Places and times where it would be rude to check my phone. I won’t take my phone out of my suit pocket in court. But I will glance at my watch.
The ability to quickly respond to messages with voice from one’s wrist is really useful.
I also regularly set reminders using my watch. Things like “remind me to send a check to so and so when I get to work”. When I walk into my office the watch vibrates slightly and reminds me to cut the check.
It’s also useful for traveling. It regularly alerts me to traffic accidents or heavy traffic and suggests alternate routes. It also alerts me as to when I need to leave to be at a destination in time.
At the airport it tells me my gate, whether or not my flight is on time, and the weather in the city I’m going to.
The downside is that you are always connected. You receive that message from a client instantly. You really feel like you’re always on.
If you’re considering a smart watch you should understand it is a complimentary device. It is cool. It can be useful. But by and large it is a luxury item as opposed to the necessity that has become the smart phone.
If you’re on a tight budget, I wouldn’t buy one. If you’ve had a good month and you’re a gadget guy or gal – buy one.