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Tech Know: smartwatches put to the test
Tech Know: smartwatches put to the test
By Patricia Maunder
What time is it? That’s a redundant question these days, because the time is displayed on screens everywhere, from mobiles to microwaves. Time’s digital omnipresence almost made watches redundant too, but they have evolved into such useful, informative devices that many of us are, quite literally, more attached to them than ever.
I tested Garmin’s Venu, a smartwatch with more capabilities than the keenest tech and fitness fanatic could probably use, and Australian company Laser’s latest V-Fitness model. This entry-level option is focused on activity tracking: step counting, sleep and heart-rate monitoring, and calorie-burn estimation. More detailed data, including long-term graphical representation, is available via a free app on a wirelessly connected smartphone. This also lets you control music, manage incoming calls and view messages on the watch.
Garmin’s first smartwatch with an AMOLED (active-matrix organic light-emitting diode) screen, the Venu does all this and considerably more. Simple text-message reply (for Android users) and music download, for example. Contactless payment, including transit in some cities. Distance monitoring and navigation using built-in GPS. It even enables selected contacts to view your real-time activity data, and alerts them – and you – of abnormal heart rate. Its golf features alone could fill this page.
V-FITNESS
$99.95
With simple graphics and navigation, including swiping in four directions from the home screen, this watch with a 24-millimetre screen is easy to use. It offers four pre-loaded watch-face designs (though one looks clunky), and monitors relevant data for eight activities including yoga, treadmill and cycling. Distance can only be measured with smartphone connection, which also enables alarm synchronisation – so you can leave the phone well out of reach and still wake up on time.
GARMIN VENU
$599
The 30-millimetre AMOLED screen offers endless watch-faces, from numerous free downloads to your own photos. It also delivers well-defined animated demonstrations for workouts available for some of the 21 (plus custom) activities Venu monitors. More swipe options from the home screen would probably ease navigation through the goldmine of functions and data. Stair-climb monitoring’s accuracy is questionable as I once achieved my daily goal while gliding up an escalator, and also walking on almost flat ground.
VERDICT
Delivering smartwatch basics with a user-friendly interface, the V-Fitness is ideal if you don’t want – or want to pay for – lots of options. The Venu offers a world of connectivity, activity tracking and even watch faces. Easy, low-impact options like breathing exercises mean it’s not necessarily just for hyperactive tech heads.
CHECK THIS OUT
Innovative wearable tech at January’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas included the H2-BP, a smartwatch that tracks blood pressure with a tiny built-in pump. Another, IEVA Time-C, monitors environmental factors associated with ageing, such as sun exposure and volatile organic compounds like paint fumes. Still in development, Panasonic’s virtual-reality goggles are the first VR headset with HDR (high dynamic range) imaging.