Discover the Standalone Features of Your Apple Watch
Written on
Chapter 1: The End of Nomophobia
The era of Nomophobia—the fear of being without a mobile phone—might be fading, especially for Apple Watch users. The introduction of the Apple Watch has transformed our methods of communication, organization, and health monitoring, all without needing to rely on an iPhone. This device can truly operate independently.
Here are seven impressive features of the Apple Watch that you can enjoy without your iPhone being nearby.
Section 1.1: Monitor Your Fitness
Many people use their smartphones for tracking fitness, but it can be cumbersome to carry around a 200g device during workouts. The Apple Watch, weighing only 40g for the Series 7 model, offers significant advantages.
- It provides almost precise measurements of your workouts.
- Studies have shown that the Apple Watch is the leading consumer device for accurately tracking heart rate and calories burned.
- It can alert you to any irregularities in your vital signs.
- You receive motivational badges for achieving fitness milestones.
- Personalized goals encourage you to stay active.
- In case of a severe fall, it can automatically call for help.
For instance, an Apple Watch recently saved a man’s life in the US after he fell from an electric bike at night, as well as alerting a 61-year-old man in India to an abnormal ECG.
The watch can also automatically recognize and track a variety of workouts, including swimming, yoga, and weightlifting.
Section 1.2: Stay Connected
Regardless of whether you own a GPS or GPS+Cellular model, your Apple Watch allows you to make calls, send messages, and share photos. The GPS-only version requires Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to connect with your iPhone, while the cellular version gives you more freedom to communicate without your phone.
With the cellular model, even if you misplace your iPhone, you can stay in touch with friends and family. Plus, you can use AirPods with your Apple Watch, ensuring privacy during calls.
Chapter 2: Enjoy Music and Podcasts
The Music app on your Apple Watch enables you to play music stored locally or stream from your favorite services if you have a subscription. If you're busy, just ask Siri to play your desired track. However, remember that you'll need a Bluetooth device like AirPods, as the watch can't play music through its own speaker.
The Podcasts app allows you to browse and listen to countless podcasts, and you can even download your favorites to enjoy offline—ideal for places with limited connectivity. Audiobooks can also be purchased through the Books app for convenient listening.
Section 2.1: Locate People and Items
The built-in Find My feature in the Apple Watch helps you track friends and locate lost devices. You can also receive alerts if you leave behind important items. Although precise tracking for AirTags isn’t available yet, we anticipate improvements in future updates.
Section 2.3: Make Purchases with Ease
While others may be fumbling with physical cards, you can effortlessly pay using your Apple Watch. Just add your credit or debit cards in the Wallet app and hold your watch near the payment terminal. A gentle tap confirms your transaction—it's that straightforward.
Section 2.4: Organize Your Schedule
The Apple Watch can help you manage your daily tasks, appointments, and reminders. Sleep schedules, alarms, and timers sync with iCloud, appearing on all your devices. You can use Siri to create calendar events directly on the watch.
Section 2.5: Home Control at Your Fingertips
With the HomeKit app, control your smart home devices directly from your watch. Adjust lighting, fan speeds, and even check who’s at your door without needing to get up.
Section 2.6: Additional Features
You can also record voice memos, check weather forecasts, track stocks, and even use your watch as a walkie-talkie. The Walkie-Talkie app allows for quick communication with friends.
Conclusion: Your Apple Watch as a Standalone Device
The Apple Watch is an incredibly versatile device that enables you to leave your iPhone behind for short periods. It has helped many users, including myself, reduce smartphone dependency while still maintaining access to essential features.
If you found this information useful, you might also enjoy learning about hidden iPhone hacks or Apple’s built-in authenticator app.