Smartwatch Features You Didn’t Know You Had
We all know the basics of a smartwatch—step counting, heart rate monitoring, and notifications. But today’s smartwatches are packed with features you probably didn’t know existed. These hidden gems can make your life easier, healthier, and even more fun.
Let’s dive into the unexpected features that might just make you rethink how you use (or choose) your smartwatch.
Hand-Washing Timer: Keeping You Clean and Safe
In the age of heightened hygiene awareness, some smartwatches, like the Apple Watch, include a hand-washing timer. It detects when you start scrubbing and counts down the recommended 20 seconds.
Why It’s Awesome: This small but thoughtful feature promotes better habits and reduces germ spread.
When I Use It: After grocery runs or public transit rides, it’s my go-to hygiene reminder.
Blood Oxygen Monitoring: A Breath of Fresh Air
Smartwatches like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 and Fitbit Sense include SpO2 sensors to measure blood oxygen levels. This is especially useful for athletes and anyone monitoring respiratory health.
Why It’s Awesome: Track your levels during workouts, at high altitudes, or even while sleeping. It’s like having a mini health lab on your wrist.
Fun Fact: It’s also helpful for detecting potential sleep apnea.
Fall Detection: A Safety Net on Your Wrist
Fall detection isn’t just for seniors. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or just prone to clumsiness, smartwatches like the Garmin Venu 2 and Apple Watch can detect hard falls and alert emergency contacts.
Why It’s Awesome: It provides peace of mind for adventurers and their loved ones.
True Story: A friend of mine got help after a bike crash, thanks to this feature.
Stress Management Tools: Zen on Demand
Feeling overwhelmed? Many smartwatches now come with stress trackers that measure heart rate variability and guide you through relaxation exercises. Fitbit Sense and Garmin watches are leaders in this space.
Why It’s Awesome: Your watch gently nudges you to breathe and unwind during chaotic days.
My Go-To Use Case: Midday meditation breaks to reset my focus.
Contactless Payments: Your Wallet on Your Wrist
With NFC-enabled smartwatches like the Apple Watch or Google Pixel Watch, you can pay for coffee, groceries, or even transit rides with a quick tap.
Why It’s Awesome: Leave your wallet and phone at home during quick errands.
Pro Tip: Make sure your watch is set to lock when not in use for added security.
On-Wrist Voice Commands: Your Personal Assistant Anywhere
From setting reminders to controlling smart home devices, built-in assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant turn your smartwatch into a hands-free helper.
Why It’s Awesome: Imagine adjusting your smart thermostat without leaving the couch or setting a reminder while walking the dog.
How I Use It: I ask my watch to turn off the lights when I’m already tucked in bed.
Advanced Sleep Tracking: Dream Insights
Beyond tracking how long you sleep, smartwatches like the Fitbit Versa and Whoop Strap provide detailed insights into your sleep stages (REM, deep, light) and give tips for better rest.
Why It’s Awesome: Understand why you’re tired and get actionable advice to improve your sleep quality.
Cool Add-On: Some watches even offer silent alarms that gently wake you with vibrations.
UV Index Alerts: Protect Your Skin
Planning a sunny day outdoors? Smartwatches like the Garmin Fenix series provide real-time UV index alerts to help you avoid overexposure.
Why It’s Awesome: Protect your skin from sunburn and long-term damage with timely reminders to apply sunscreen.
When I Use It: Beach trips and long hikes in the summer.
Remote Camera Control: Picture Perfect
Some smartwatches double as remote controls for your smartphone camera. Perfect for group shots or selfies, it eliminates the need for awkward timers.
Why It’s Awesome: Set up your phone and snap photos with ease.
Perfect Scenario: Capturing family photos during the holidays without missing the shot.
Custom Workouts: Your Personal Trainer
Smartwatches like the Polar Grit X and Apple Watch allow you to create custom workout plans or follow pre-designed routines.
Why It’s Awesome: Track your progress in real-time and get coaching tailored to your goals.
How I Use It: Personalized HIIT sessions at home that sync with my fitness app.
A World of Possibilities on Your Wrist
Smartwatches are no longer just about steps or heart rates. These innovative features redefine what wearable tech can do, blending practicality with creativity to make everyday life more seamless and enjoyable. With the right smartwatch, you’re not just keeping up—you’re staying ahead.