How much would you like to pay for a device that provides occasional convenience? How much do you want to pay if you need wireless access for your Apple Watch Series 3?
These are the questions you need to ask yourself while considering buying LTE for the Apple Watch Series 3. What makes the smartwatch different from other Apple Watches is that this model features an integrated cellular modem option. This means you will always be able to make and receive calls and messages on the Watch.
However, using the Watch without being connected to your iPhone can be satisfying. There are three types of shorter-lived situations where you might make use of this watch.
Workouts
The wireless access needs to be switched off to save the battery life depending on how much time you use. Don’t plan to play music over a whole marathon or get motivational messages.
Real-time heart rate monitoring and an altimeter are new features for both the Series 3 LTE and non-LTE models. At two flights, Apple can accurately calculate the petrifying trip up the ladder. (The run of the stairs is 10 floors above sea level.)
Walkabouts
If you intend to bring a 5-pound backup battery in your pocket, it doesn’t happen to be living a full day with only the Apple Watch 3. Walking the dog, running to the store, going to a meeting at the office, or pushing the car can be ideal for quick departures from the iPhone. You can receive messages and emails in all situations and reply quickly via voice-to-text, which has become more reliable, even in noisy environments. Siri’s fast response time to your “Hey Siri” could be impressive, too.
One big frustration, though. Your phone call will drop when your phone is connected to your watch and leave the phone behind. Also, if it is the same phone number, the handing over to the cellular of the watch is not smooth. Apple admits that it was common. The watch automatically connects to WiFi to save energy.
Water Activities
You can call or text from an Apple Watch 3 you’re in the middle of the river. The experience may sound odd. Still, you will undoubtedly want an Apple Watch cellular for water activities.
The smartwatch is also water-resistant. So you can use it while surfing, sailing, kayaking, swimming, or relaxing in the kiddie pool. Sadly, there is no way to take pictures without a smartphone at the watch.
The Series 3 cellular and noncellular models are water-resistant for up to 50 meters. And no, calling from underwater is not feasible.
Verdict
If you are drawn to either of these situations, you can also wait until the cellular experience improves. If you just want an Apple Watch, go for the Series 3 noncellular version. The said variant still has GPS and runs on a charge for up to one day and a half. If you have the previous Series 2, just stick with it and update to Watch OS 4. The said OS gives older Apple Watches the latest heart rate features and improvements in workout tracking.
The Apple Watch Series 3 is also the best example of what Apple thinks the watch should be a stand-alone, tiny wrist device that does not need your iPhone. But if Series 3 is any indication of how that ‘s going to be, we should all hold off until Series X is said to be.
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