Related
As I was anticipating getting the Note 2, I realized as my phone got bigger, it would require a different way of use than a smaller device. With the rumored Note 7", if it's allowed to handle calls, it is even more important to me if I upgraded to that to have a convenient way to handle calls without having to pull the whole device out.. Imagine the device in your pocket as the communications hub - you pull it out when you need to deal with the screen, but for simple tasks like calls, your smartwatch and headset would be the only things you need to interact with.
In the past, there were bluetooth headsets with caller ID displays, but I found they're not practical as you still have to look at the display, then put in your ear or you have the display part hanging around your neck/clipped on your shirt like those Sony's I've seen. A watch which can show the caller IDs, incoming texts and emails is more appealing to me.
I read from reviews that other smartwatches were either too bulky, had miserable battery life, or had issues staying connected with the phone reliably. I found the last two issues to be the case with the Sony 2nd gen Smartwatch so sent it back. I loved the promised functionality, but in practice the battery life wouldn't even last the day, which was a dealbreaker. It also would randomly disconnect from my phones so the lack of reliability for what I wanted it for was frustrating.
It seemed the Pebble was everything I was hoping for (on paper, at least), so I backed on Kickstarter and was hoping it would be out by the time I got a Note, but since it's not shipping yet, I went and got the Metawatch Frame. So far I'm really liking it, even though there aren't a lot of widgets/apps developed for it at this early stage. My primary requirement of at least a days worth of battery life (actually can go several days) and reliable bluetooth attachment so that it instantly shows incoming caller ID is working great. Even shows the contacts picture on the watch (in low res monochrome). http://metawatch.myshopify.com - I got the Frame version since I thought Strata looks too bulky.
So far I have it set up to do email/SMS/Caller ID, weather forecasts. You can set up more notifications, but they will eat up battery life and I didn't want to always have every little notification show up on my watch.
You will have to update the firmware on the watch if it ships w/ 1.1 to 1.2 so it supports the Metawatch Community Edition - a simple email to their support will promptly get you a link and instructions to upgrade the FW.
Watch Manager you load on your phone: https://play.google.com/store/apps/...t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5tZXRhd2F0Y2gubXdtIl0.
Watch Manager Community Edition (has more features, but needs 1.2 FW): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.metawatch.communityedition&feature=search_result
Apps: https://play.google.com/store/search?q=metawatch&c=apps
Is anyone else using a smartwatch w/ their Note 2? How are your experiences with them?
Hi.
Do u run stock ROM? Android 4.1.2?
I have ordered the Metawatch frame and from what I have heard, metawatch and Android 4.2.1 is not a good match atm. (BT bug)
I'm useing CM10.1 on Note2
Sent from my GT-N7100 using xda premium
i was using the motorola motoactv until i decided to test how water resistant it was. needless to say, it didnt handle heavy rain very well.
My Motoactv meets my needs. While it isnt water proof, as the above user mentioned, I love it. You can get text, call, weather and Facebook alerts. Rooting the device can add more functions as well.
chino0131 said:
My Motoactv meets my needs. While it isnt water proof, as the above user mentioned, I love it. You can get text, call, weather and Facebook alerts. Rooting the device can add more functions as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
mmm, i loved it. the only things missing were a vibration function and google maps/navigation out of the box.
considering buying another one.
Hmmm I wonder what is better, if the metawatch or the pebble... Im getting interested on something like this.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
lfrp said:
Hmmm I wonder what is better, if the metawatch or the pebble... Im getting interested on something like this.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
UPDATE: Just recieved my Metawatch see next page for update.
The Pebble first caught my eye a little while back and I was planning on getting one. But after learning about the Metawatch the other day and looking at the functionality of both, I just ordered a Metawatch. I read and watched several reviews in coming to my conclusion. I went with the Frame model instead of the Strata because the black model of the strata is on back order (I like simple understated colors).
The main reason was that the Metawatch currently offers more functionality, from what I can tell. Both offer notifications for calls, e-mails & text, but the Metawatch allows you to:
- Answer calls, dismiss calls or answer with speakerphone from the watch (Can't hear or talk from the watch of course, but can answer a take call over BT headset from the
watch after checking it for caller ID)
- Displays weather, something I haven't seen on the Pebble yet.
I also like having widgets on the Metawatch that allows you to have more info on one screen, Time/date, local weather and notifications (e-mail, SMS & calls). I rather have the option to have all this info on one screen.
Likes and dislikes of the Pebble are as fallow...
Like:
- The higher resolution screen than the Metawatche's screen.
- The supposed Runkeeper integration (though not available yet). AS a Runkeeper user this is big to me. (I may get one eventually if the
Runkeeper integration actually comes togeather.
- I like the look of the Pebble over the Strata (though I'm getting the Metawatch Frame witch I think looks as good or better than the pebble).
- The magnetic charging setup is superior the the Metawatche's clumsy silly looking clip.
Dislikes:
- Limited functionality compared to the Metawatch (ablitly to answer (preferably with a BT headset , dismiss or send calls to speakerphone).
I'm sure the Pebble's functionality will expand over time, but it's not yet there, not for me at least.
- The clock faces should have a sub-menu in the in the home screen so there not all in there with music, set alarm and settings options. Not to
mention that the three default clock faces are at the top of the above music, set alarm and settings option then any clock faces you download
are under the music, set alarm and settings options. Again not well thought out.
- It's will probably be 1-3 months before the catch up shipping and are able get watches out to new customers. I'd be willing to wait if it offered
more functionality, as it is I'm not willing to wait.
All things considered I find the Metawatch the more appealing option for me. Though the Runkeeper functionality the Pebble is promised to have in March or so really make me consider getting Pebble eventually. The Metawatch is suppose to have a run tracking app built in But I already use Runkeeper and would like to use one single app to track my runs. Thus far I have found no info in run tracking functionality on the Metawatch so I have no idea what to expect.
WIMM
I am currently using the Wimm One, but you can't buy them any longer. Mine works pretty good with either my GS3 or GN2.
Just like the OP, I needed something for caller ID, etc.
I really, really wanted an excuse to get the MotoActiv, but the lack of a vibrator motor was a deal-killer for me.
If and when my Wimm dies, I will definitely be getting a suitable replacement. I didn't back the Pebble because I had already had the Wimm.
I am going to go check out the Meta.
I LOVE the idea of a smartwatch! I've been doing extensive research and am intrigued by the available options.
My problem is, I would hate the look of a small color screen on my wrist. It simply doesn't look professional to me. While there are other alternatives out there, none of them does what I'm interested in or are within my price range.
I've looked at I'm Watch, Sony Smart Watch, Pebble, Martian, etc. The only one visually appealing to me is the cookoo. But its only for iPhone!! Who in there right mind would design and release a product that's for the smartphone market, yet be proprietary to one OS. Morons.
So. I'm on a mission to make something myself. And to be honest the design would be rather simple. A watch wjth the following capabilities.
Bluetooth, low powered.
Time mechanism with a separate power source
Vibrate motor
Notification ring light
Manual set time dial
Bluetooth pairing button
Dismiss notification button (long press show battery remaining)
Magnetic charging dock
Android / WP8/ iOS / BB10 App
All I want is a phone that shows me via customizable lights/vibrate pattern whats happening on my phone. I don't need to complete the actions on my watch, to me that's just silly. I can glance and simply see I have a pending email, text, Facebook/twitter notification etc. Best part is, the batter can last for weeks.
Too bad I have no means to complete this lol
The most interesting watch to me is the
Sent from my SGH-I317M using xda app-developers app
Hi,
To those who have purchased this watch did you have to purchase the charging clip separately? It's currently showing out of stock.
Also how much are you guys paying for shipping? My shipping costs are estimated at $61 Australian. Excessive but none the less I am still looking at purchasing one.
Thanks
Sent from my GT-N7105 using xda premium
Can someone tell me about the running/cycling app? I can find no info on this at all.
---------- Post added at 01:15 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:02 AM ----------
LuvinN1 said:
Hi,
To those who have purchased this watch did you have to purchase the charging clip separately? It's currently showing out of stock.
Also how much are you guys paying for shipping? My shipping costs are estimated at $61 Australian. Excessive but none the less I am still looking at purchasing one.
Thanks
Sent from my GT-N7105 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The charging clip should come in the box with the watch.
Wow, that shipping cost sucks! Have you considered getting one from e-bay. You can get it for less and save a bunch on shipping. This is where I ordered one last night. I wnet with the Frame model as I wanted it in black and the Strata is back-ordered for the black one.
Strata model:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Metawatch-m...266?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f21bf71ba
Frame model:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Metawatch-m...733?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f21cc73ad
or this Frame model from the UK:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Metawatch-B...es_Watches_MensWatches_GL&hash=item35c3e5fa04
RojasTKD said:
Can someone tell me about the running/cycling app? I can find no info on this at all.
---------- Post added at 01:15 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:02 AM ----------
The charging clip should come in the box with the watch.
Wow, that shipping cost sucks! Have you considered getting one from e-bay. You can get it for less and save a bunch on shipping. This is where I ordered one last night. I wnet with the Frame model as I wanted it in black and the Strata is back-ordered for the black one.
Strata model:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Metawatch-m...266?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f21bf71ba
Frame model:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Metawatch-m...733?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f21cc73ad
or this Frame model from the UK:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Metawatch-B...es_Watches_MensWatches_GL&hash=item35c3e5fa04
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks mate. Forgot about ebay. The misses wants one too. You have saved me hundreds. Planning to get the white and black frames.
Sent from my GT-N7105 using xda premium
LuvinN1 said:
Thanks mate. Forgot about ebay. The misses wants one too. You have saved me hundreds. Planning to get the white and black frames.
Sent from my GT-N7105 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad I was able to be of service. I hope you enjoy. Mine should arrive this week, excited!
Oh and feel free to it the THANKS button if you like
added some info I had forgot to mention
Here's an update as my Metawatch arrived yesterday. I got the frame model instead of the more sporty Strata. See here:
http://metawatch.myshopify.com/collections/watches-all
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE: 2/13/2013
After talking to a few developers (Special thanks to the developer of Augmented Smartwatch Pro) I switched to Community Manager from the Noah Edition of the Metawatch Manager, as recent updates to Noah seem to have caused issues. So far today I have had no freezes and the batter is still reading 100% two and half hours off the charger. Still to early to tell but at least some of the issues may have been related to the update to Noah edition. Noah had an update this morning, but I haven't tried it yet. I'll be trying Augmented Smartwatch Pro soon to see if that is also working better now that I'm using community edition.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE: 2/14/2013
Since the update to the Community Edition and Noah Edition of the Metawatch Manager apps my watch has worked almost flawless, without freezes and the battery life has improved. Charges it and had it pared with my watch since last night so It lasted 20 - 24 hours. Not the 3 -5 days that the spec sheet claims but the could be the the Metawatch Manager app i'm using. Going to try Noah Edition again tomorrow as it been updated and should not give me the issues I was originally having when I first received my watch.
The screen is still had to read in anything but a well lit room or outdoors during the day. On the plus side it is very visible in direct sun light.
It this point I'm satisfied and don't regret getting the Metawatch.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 2/18/2013
Well, I'm happy to report that I seem to improved my battery issue. I tried as someone recommended and did a reset after charging (holding the two middle buttons for a few seconds). Yesterday my after about 12 hours my battery was at 87% instead of the 34% I was getting before.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
First the screen I'm not a big fan of. On the good side it is always on so you can tell the time with a glance (kind of). It is also easily readable in direct sun light. The problem is it's best viewable in a bright room. when I'm in room that not WELL lit it's hard to see the screen. You have to find the angle that allows the watch to catch the light. Yes, there is a LED light it the top, but it a bit of a pain and you I haven't found a way to change the time out. If you turn on the light and start doing something on the watch it will time out in 4 - 5 seconds then you have to keep hitting it to finish doing what you doing. The text is also small and often difficult to read and navigate. Ofter just a short time with the watch I really really wished it had a touch screen. Using the buttons to navigate with the tiny tiny icons that tell you their function get very tedious.
If you use the Metawatch Manager Community Edition (A third party modified version of the official Metawatch manager that adds much more functionality) you can not only get notifications for calls, gmail, and text.... you can also answer you phone with a push of a button (with the use of a BT headset), or answer you phone via speakerphone from you watch. going into you phones setting>accessibility and giving the Metawatch software permission it you can notification from just about any app that shows notifications on you notification bar, I haven't figured out how to get notifications for my regular (NON-Gmail) e-mails. Also I like having my time, weather phone battery status and missed call and missed text on one screen.
The really bad so far, In the day and a half I've owned this watch I've had 4 - 5 freezes. The watch becomes totally responsive. I have to connect and disconnect it from the charging clip over and over and over (8 - 28 times) to get it to reboot. I was out today having a bite when this happened. Not having the clip and power source available made the watch useless until I got home. I decided to re-flash the latest firmware again (witch I did on day one) and see if that helps. I may try FW 1.2 as that may be more stable and still work with Community Edition.
To keep this short I'm just going to give you some pros and cons for the rest:
Pro:
- Good functionality: Can get all kinds of notifications (with Community Edition) and even Answer (with headset), ignore, or answer via
speakerphone.
- Can scroll and read entire messages (text, gmail)
- Nice looking watch compared to many others. Classy enough to wear in any occasion.
- I have a screen where options to: quick dial my favorites, put my phone in or out of silent mode or ping my phone (to find lost phone). Also
has a option titled, "voice search", but so far it doesn't seem to do anything. Oh, and an option to view a list of notifications (text, calls, any
and all notifications that have appeared on you phone.
- Vibrates with alarm clock (but only stock alarm, and I'm used to using Alarm Clock Plus).
- Vibrates with notifications something that the Motoactv dose not do ( I have a Motoactv on the way).
- Screen is always on and doesn't time out.
- Can see a calendar and with a button press can view a list of events on my calender.
Cons:
- Freezes too often. I hope re-flashing the firmware (1.3) or flashing the previous (1.2) firmware will fix this.
- Screen can be difficult to read if not in a well lit place.
- LED light at the top just seems so 1980's. Wish screen would stay lit with button presses so I could navigate with out having to continually turn
on the light. Text is small and hard to read at times. I think I'd prefer a Motoactv or Sony Smartwatch screen even if they are not always on.
- There often a delayed response to the button presses. Sometimes I push it it again thinking it didn't register only to then have to register two
button presses.
- It suppose to have a built in running and cycling app of some kind, but so far it just, "coming soon".
- Buttons and no touch screen makes navigation really start to feel tedious a times.
Battery is hard so say as I got the watch yesterday, but so far it not meeting their claims. It cam off the charger yesterday at about 5:00 or 5:30 pm and by 10:30 this morning it it was showing zero and I attached the charger. It came off the charger at about at around 12:30 or 1:30. It is now 2:23 am and it showing 54%, so it will probably not last past tomorrow morning. I'll give it some time before I make a final determination on battery life.
The freezing issue aside (hoping firmware will resolve) aside the screen is my biggest complaint. I would like something more readable and have come to the conclusion that a touch screen should be a must for a smartwatch.
I haven't tried the Augmented Smartphone Pro app that is said to bring some additionality functionality to the Metawatch (as well as Sony Smartwatch, Motoactv and Pebble). But will be seeing what if offers next week. Also next week I should have a Sony Smartwatch and Motorola Motoactv in my hands next week.
Though I like the more understated and classy look of the Metawatch I'm looking forward to receiving the Sony Smartwatch and Motorola Motoactv. I think I will enjoy the screens more both for readability of text and the touchscreen.
interesting and nice overall review. I'm temped to grab something like this. Just haven't been able not to talk myself out of it.
What you said about the screen seems to be the overall theme I've read from other reviews as well. It's the trade off from having some kind of LCD/touch screen which are more power hungry, and seem to only last a few hours. Can't necessarily argue against your point, but it may not be biggest knock, considering the trade off.
lovekeiiy said:
interesting and nice overall review. I'm temped to grab something like this. Just haven't been able not to talk myself out of it.
What you said about the screen seems to be the overall theme I've read from other reviews as well. It's the trade off from having some kind of LCD/touch screen which are more power hungry, and seem to only last a few hours. Can't necessarily argue against your point, but it may not be biggest knock, considering the trade off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its funny I read a lot of people talking about the Sony Smartwatch and how its battery is horrible. I bought mine when I had an SGS2 and the battery life was horrible. lasted <1 day. Also seriously drained my phones battery. When I got my SGN2 I pulled it out of my gadget drawer and set it up again. It works perfectly. Watch battery lasts around 3 days, and it doesn't impact the battery life on my phone at all. If anything a few percent per day. I do wish for an "always on" display, but I've gotta say the smartwatch works pretty well with my note2.
Thanks!
Thanks for taking the time to give us your initial experiences with the Meta.
I am still using my Wimm One, and before that, I had the Sony. I absolutely HATED the Sony. In fairness, it was their first-gen watch, but unless it has improved dramatically, I think you are going to be more disappointed in it than you were the Meta. The Sony can't even stand-alone and function as a watch without being paired to and in range of a phone.
I just wish the Moto had a vibration motor and I think it would be the undisputed choice.
So I have a STRATA coming soon. Got a really good deal on eBay (I am not sure how the price can be so low, so I am skeptical that something might be wrong with it). I also have a Pebble coming (Grey so who knows when I will get it) and I think I can use both. So thanks for your review I like the idea of having the widgets on the screen and think the small developer community is trying to really make a good device out of it. I looked at the Sony and the Moto briefly. The one thing about the Moto was it seemed like it was geared towards activity (running mostly) and I was looking for something that would show notifications (calling, email, etc), weather, ebay, really anything that can push information. How does the Moto fit there?
lovekeiiy said:
interesting and nice overall review. I'm temped to grab something like this. Just haven't been able not to talk myself out of it.
What you said about the screen seems to be the overall theme I've read from other reviews as well. It's the trade off from having some kind of LCD/touch screen which are more power hungry, and seem to only last a few hours. Can't necessarily argue against your point, but it may not be biggest knock, considering the trade off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I understand the idea behind the screen and battery life, but honestly I rather have something that is more easily read and navigated even if it has to time out and I have to charge it every night. It very easliy read out door in in the brightest of sunlight, but indoors you have to move the angles to find one in witch you can make it out (in less it a very well lit room. Heck, I charged it over night until about 11 am today, it now 10:15pm and it at 22% according to the display. The Sony and Motorola can do better than that.
It did lock up on me twice today. I e-mailed support and asked for firmware 1.2 to see if it was better, but they told me that FW 1.2 never made it out of beta and they recommend 1.3. They gave me some instructions to unpair the device and reinstall the app. Their instruction where for iOS and I'm on running Android (Galaxy Note II), so I unpaired the watch uninstalled the app and reinstalled it. I even rebooted the watch and phone. So we'll see if tomorrow brings any more freezes.
robroy90 said:
Thanks for taking the time to give us your initial experiences with the Meta.
I am still using my Wimm One, and before that, I had the Sony. I absolutely HATED the Sony. In fairness, it was their first-gen watch, but unless it has improved dramatically, I think you are going to be more disappointed in it than you were the Meta. The Sony can't even stand-alone and function as a watch without being paired to and in range of a phone.
I just wish the Moto had a vibration motor and I think it would be the undisputed choice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, the Sony Smartwatch has gotten some good updates, and is a much improved device from when it was first released. It can even keep time even if it looses it's connection to the phone. It's actually a pretty capable device at this point, especially when paired with an app called Augmented smatwatch Pro. The thing makes it a bit ugly is the built in clip that makes almost twice as think as it would be otherwise.
Character Zero said:
So I have a STRATA coming soon. Got a really good deal on eBay (I am not sure how the price can be so low, so I am skeptical that something might be wrong with it). I also have a Pebble coming (Grey so who knows when I will get it) and I think I can use both. So thanks for your review I like the idea of having the widgets on the screen and think the small developer community is trying to really make a good device out of it. I looked at the Sony and the Moto briefly. The one thing about the Moto was it seemed like it was geared towards activity (running mostly) and I was looking for something that would show notifications (calling, email, etc), weather, ebay, really anything that can push information. How does the Moto fit there?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Moto is geared to fitness activities, but it can also receive notifications. In fact you can answer call either via a wired headphones with mic (included) or wireless headset (I have the Motorola S11 Flex HD I use when running). Again the Augmented Smartphone app adds functionality as far as receiving notifications in the motoactv as well. You can get weather on the Motoactv also (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.motorola.notifier.plugin.accuweather&hl=en).
You can even root the Motoactv and run many Android apps (thought not all apps will work or have totally functionality). With it's built in WiFi, BT and GPS it's almost like a tiny tablet.
The only thing it lacks to make it what I would consider an awesome smartwatch is the lack of a vibrating motor for notifications. If it had vibrating alerts I'd consider making it my only smartwatch.
Got mine yesterday and so far would not recommend this watch to anybody. It has given me nothing but troubles. The community edition app kept freezing my watch so I'm using Noah's meta watch app and purchased augmented smart watch pro for extra functions.
The most irritating trouble I am facing apart from the freezes is with the phone call screen and messaging screen. When receiving calls or messages I cannot go back to the original or 1st screen. In addition none of my buttons under the action screen works.
I also purchased one for the misses to be used with the iphone. Does not crash or freeze but is useless with the limited functions available. Watch does not even vibrate during incoming calls even though I have enabled this feature. Her music control functions and toggling between screens works and seems smooth (mine does not work on android). Again the downside for her is with the limited functions and connectivity issues. It keeps disconnecting and connecting.
Now I am stuck with 2 useless watches. I wear mine only because I purchased it. I'm thinking of just placing it back in the box because I am about to lose my mind.
Sent from my GT-N7105 using xda premium
I just bought a neo 2 yesterday. My reasoning was
- 4 day battery. I have been using neo2 constantly since yesterday, and the battery only dropped 30%. Wow.
1 day battery will not work for me... I go a lot out on weekends and dont want to carry a charger (non-micro usb) with me. I know i will forget and then 1daybattey watch will be a bracelet.
- speaker phone is good.. like how I can quickly take a call, rather than run to find where did I leave my phone in the house.
- fleksy makes it easy to send messages.
- I can choose notifications I like to see on watch. For now I picked up whatsapp, messanger, skpye, hangouts, calls.
- I dont use google now... dont even have it enabled.
- I like the IR port to use for my TV and air conditioner.
So that all is good... I feel like this is a really useful device. BUT...
I feel concerned that this only works with samsung phones.
Android wear may get better that this is due time. Battey usage may improve...
Basically neo2 is miles ahead of android wear today, but android wear will get better in time...
I still have 2 week return window... so just wanted to get opinions of everyone else in the same boat. What did u choose and why?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk
My wife read the post and her feedback was that my qn did now emerge out clearly.
So,
1) can android wear work without google now? Like reply back to sms, call notifications etc.
2) do u all forsee battery getting better to like 3 days with firmware updates on android wear?
Neo 2 has same size battery and works 4 days with more functionality... so I hope it gets better on wear platform.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk
smrsxn said:
I just bought a neo 2 yesterday. My reasoning was
- 4 day battery. I have been using neo2 constantly since yesterday, and the battery only dropped 30%. Wow.
1 day battery will not work for me... I go a lot out on weekends and dont want to carry a charger (non-micro usb) with me. I know i will forget and then 1daybattey watch will be a bracelet.
- speaker phone is good.. like how I can quickly take a call, rather than run to find where did I leave my phone in the house.
- fleksy makes it easy to send messages.
- I can choose notifications I like to see on watch. For now I picked up whatsapp, messanger, skpye, hangouts, calls.
- I dont use google now... dont even have it enabled.
- I like the IR port to use for my TV and air conditioner.
So that all is good... I feel like this is a really useful device. BUT...
I feel concerned that this only works with samsung phones.
Android wear may get better that this is due time. Battey usage may improve...
Basically neo2 is miles ahead of android wear today, but android wear will get better in time...
I still have 2 week return window... so just wanted to get opinions of everyone else in the same boat. What did u choose and why?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only reason I got the live is because I decided to forego Samsung phones altogether. I got the LG g3 and love it. So I had to get rid of my gear 2 and get the gear live. Quite a step back for all the reasons you've mentioned. But hey, what can you do? Lol.
Actually gear neo 2 can work on non samsung phones as well... u just need gear manager apk on the other phone
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On my Gear Live, I get 2 days battery with the screen always on. More if I turn the screen off. It has improved with each firmware update. The main reason to get one - support from third party apps such as runtastic, and the hundreds of watch faces that have become available in such a short space of time. Things are accelerating very quickly!
Sent from my SM-G900F using Tapatalk
Gear Live and NEO have the same processor, battery and screen.
The difference is you can not always have the screen on, I always want the screen on.
If I am willing to use gestures to wake the watch I would notice no difference.
Yes you can pair the device to non-Samsung devices but you do not get 100% functionality.
Also Tizen, no thanks.
I had a gear one that was given to me. It was way too much a pain in the ass to get it to work with my nexus 4. Plus all the features you don't get. I'm happy with the gear live although it should have the functionality of being able to talk on the phone through it would have been perfect
In all honesty they both have good and bad points
The issue of battery is not a problem for me as I always have to charge the phone overnight so charging the watch is now second nature.
The biggest issue with the gear 2 is the notifications there just is not enough of the message on the screen when it alerts
For me the idea of a smartwatch is to see what's incoming and then I can decide if I need to look at the phone or not and with the gear live (and the original gear using an app caked swapplink ) I can do that, but I can't on the gear 2 which for me seems a waste of time having one.
As regards to apps the live has more apps available now and is growing day by day whereas the gear 2 has gone stagnant.
I have a galaxy gear running null rom , a gear 2 and a gear live and for me I have only used the gear live for a while and I've not missed the others, apart from making a call with the watch but I always felt a bit of idiot when I did hehe
machmandp said:
In all honesty they both have good and bad points
apart from making a call with the watch but I always felt a bit of idiot when I did hehe
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
\\:laugh: Me too
smrsxn said:
Actually gear neo 2 can work on non samsung phones as well... u just need gear manager apk on the other phone
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah it does connect and there are ways to get gear manager on your phone I know. Been there done that. the problem is that in the end the phone sees your watch as a bluetooth headset and when you pick up a call it gets diverted to your watch and you have to divert it back to your phone. You can't have a bluetooth headset and your watch connected at the same time, the pictures you take with your watch don't get transferred to your phone,the weather watch face doesn't work just to name a few things functionality wise. Trust me the calls getting diverted to your watch thing, it gets old fast. I'm sure there must be some kind of tasker workaround but I ain't got that kind of time on my hands.
After playing a whole day with a friends gear live, I decided to stick with gear 2 neo.
Being able to answer calls with my watch when at home, sms discreetly with fleksy when in a meeting, reject calls from watch when in a meeting, and a 4day battey life are more important use cases for me.
I do not use google now anyways... besides I get all app notifications on gear2 neo as well.
Very happy so far... but I am not married to this tizen platform... when android wear matures, i'll be back...
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk
Hey folks
Im wanting to buy an activity wearable to work alongside my M8. Iwant to use it for Powerwalking, Jogging and sleep. It would be nice to have a watch on it , but not a deal breaker as step and fitness accuracy is more important than a smart watch.
As the M8 is now bundled with fitbit software, then I have considered a fitbit band, but with so many wearables and reviews for any Android, its hard to pick a band. I dont want to spend more than £100.
I was just wanting to know of anyones experience of using any Android wearable (not just fitbit), Is it accurate for exersize stats, would you recommend it.
Many Thanks
NightOrchid said:
Hey folks
Im wanting to buy an activity wearable to work alongside my M8. Iwant to use it for Powerwalking, Jogging and sleep. It would be nice to have a watch on it so i could log a few extra steps here and there , but not a deal breaker as step and fitness accuracy is more important than a flashy smart watch.
As HTC are now using fitbit software, then a fitbit band would match the m8 well, but with so many wearables for any Android around and so many updates patches and fixes as well, its hard to pick a band. I dont want to spend more than £100.
Also, it would be nice if I didnt need to carry the M8 with me, but the band could store the data and dump it to the M8/PC when im home, but again not a deal breaker
Any advice please
Many Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Garmin Vivosmart works fairly well. It had some hiccups when it first came out (mainly with keeping a solid connection with phone) but it works pretty well for me after a couple firmware updates. It may be a bit more than £100 but not a whole lot unless you get the version that comes with a heart rate strap. Besides the typical Fitbit type tracking (steps, sleep) it also will notify (vibrate) you on any phone notification. You can specify what app notifications you want pushed to the Vivosmart. You can read the notification (email, facebook, twitter, sms, incomming phone call, etc) but can't dismiss on the band.
That said the newest Fitbit with heart rate functionality built in has caught my attention. I'd probably look at it pretty closely if I didn't just get the Vivosmart a couple months ago.
Edit: and it's waterproof up to 50 meters. I never take it off other than to charge every 4-5 days.
henderjr said:
Garmin Vivosmart works fairly well. It had some hiccups when it first came out (mainly with keeping a solid connection with phone) but it works pretty well for me after a couple firmware updates. It may be a bit more than £100 but not a whole lot unless you get the version that comes with a heart rate strap. Besides the typical Fitbit type tracking (steps, sleep) it also will notify (vibrate) you on any phone notification. You can specify what app notifications you want pushed to the Vivosmart. You can read the notification (email, facebook, twitter, sms, incomming phone call, etc) but can't dismiss on the band.
That said the newest Fitbit with heart rate functionality built in has caught my attention. I'd probably look at it pretty closely if I didn't just get the Vivosmart a couple months ago.
Edit: and it's waterproof up to 50 meters. I never take it off other than to charge every 4-5 days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ive edited my OP to make it a bit clearer..........
Thanks for the quick reply. Ive actually found the Gramin on Amazon for £120, which ide consider, but the January sales are happening in 6 weeks so I may hang on till then. When you mention the "new" fitbit.. is that the Surge or the Charge HR.?.
NightOrchid said:
Ive edited my OP to make it a bit clearer..........
Thanks for the quick reply. Ive actually found the Gramin on Amazon for £120, which ide consider, but the January sales are happening in 6 weeks so I may hang on till then. When you mention the "new" fitbit.. is that the Surge or the Charge HR.?.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Charge HR is one I find interesting due to heart rate monitoring though really do prefer to have one that's waterproof like the Vivosmart. There are a few things I wish the Vivosmart had like multiple alarms (it only allows one), better sleep tracking (fitbit wins this by a bunch), and ability to work with other companies so you can find more friends to challenge with. I don't know anyone that uses a Vivosmart of the older Vivofit so I have no connections in their app. I had 5-6 on Fitbit. Pretty much all the above is mentioned on the different reviews that are out there. I also keep an eye out on their forum, https://forums.garmin.com/forumdisplay.php?478-vivosmart.
Accuracy seems fine for me, steps wise. It doesn't really track any other activity. For other activities I log them in MyFitnessPal which the Vivosmart can sync with. I did wear it for a day with my old fitbit force and it registered more steps than my fitbit but it wasn't more than a one or two percent.
Jawbone UP
http://www.theverge.com/2014/8/14/6001153/the-best-fitness-tracker-you-can-buy
henderjr said:
The Charge HR is one I find interesting due to heart rate monitoring though really do prefer to have one that's waterproof like the Vivosmart. There are a few things I wish the Vivosmart had like multiple alarms (it only allows one), better sleep tracking (fitbit wins this by a bunch), and ability to work with other companies so you can find more friends to challenge with. I don't know anyone that uses a Vivosmart of the older Vivofit so I have no connections in their app. I had 5-6 on Fitbit. Pretty much all the above is mentioned on the different reviews that are out there. I also keep an eye out on their forum, https://forums.garmin.com/forumdisplay.php?478-vivosmart.
Accuracy seems fine for me, steps wise. It doesn't really track any other activity. For other activities I log them in MyFitnessPal which the Vivosmart can sync with. I did wear it for a day with my old fitbit force and it registered more steps than my fitbit but it wasn't more than a one or two percent.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
After looking at the Garmin.. i think ide like a few more features for my money than just counting steps.. plus I read that the Garmin mobile app is a little sparse. It would also be nice too count calories and sleep patterns, but the charge HR and flex look nice. While i dont necxessarily need something as feature packed as say Samsings S Health, a few app features would be nice.
darkintragedy said:
Jawbone UP
http://www.theverge.com/2014/8/14/6001153/the-best-fitness-tracker-you-can-buy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This looks interesting., but it seems all done through apps than a watch. Do you use it yourself?, Do you find it accurate?.. I thought the Jawbone was more for iPhone.. is that right?
Im open to any ideas
I have the jawbone up24 and use it exclusively with my M8. I also owned the fitbit flex prior to owning my jawbone Up24. I liked the fitbit, but I LOVE my jawbone. The fitbit gave me tons of issues, not syncing correctly, battery status not showing correctly. Battery not lasting anywhere near the week it was supposed to (think 3 days), and wasn't the best looking band. After switching to the UP24, it's been smooth sailing. No connection issues, battery life was already good, but the new firmware update extends battery life up to 14 days between charges. I thought not having a screen would bother me, but honestly, with the smart alerts that the app gives you, I don't find myself longing for a screen. It also syncs with other apps such as runtastic and myfitnesspal (apps to track your run, and track your food intake). If i didn't already have one, I'd take at the jawbone 3. It does everything the up24 does, but adds changeable bands, and a heart rate monitor. Hope that helps.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
eep02b said:
I have the jawbone up24 and use it exclusively with my M8. I also owned the fitbit flex prior to owning my jawbone Up24. I liked the fitbit, but I LOVE my jawbone. The fitbit gave me tons of issues, not syncing correctly, battery status not showing correctly. Battery not lasting anywhere near the week it was supposed to (think 3 days), and wasn't the best looking band. After switching to the UP24, it's been smooth sailing. No connection issues, battery life was already good, but the new firmware update extends battery life up to 14 days between charges. I thought not having a screen would bother me, but honestly, with the smart alerts that the app gives you, I don't find myself longing for a screen. It also syncs with other apps such as runtastic and myfitnesspal (apps to track your run, and track your food intake). If i didn't already have one, I'd take at the jawbone 3. It does everything the up24 does, but adds changeable bands, and a heart rate monitor. Hope that helps.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply, that helps alot. Ive read up on the Jawbone Up24 and it looks like so many people having sync issues or theyre breaking as its realitively new to Android. I think what I read was it used to be IOS only. Ill certainly take a look. I like the idea of being able to integrate other apps into it to trasck food and running.. instead of just a pedometer. Is the Jawbone not quite chunky on your wrist ?.
Ill take a look at the Jawbone, Garmin and Fitbit and decide.
EDIT:
My local store has the black flex for £50 on special, which seems tempting .. but still looking
NightOrchid said:
Thanks for the reply, that helps alot. Ive read up on the Jawbone Up24 and it looks like so many people having sync issues or theyre breaking as its realitively new to Android. I think what I read was it used to be IOS only. Ill certainly take a look. I like the idea of being able to integrate other apps into it to trasck food and running.. instead of just a pedometer. Is the Jawbone not quite chunky on your wrist ?.
Ill take a look at the Jawbone, Garmin and Fitbit and decide.
EDIT:
My local store has the black flex for £50 on special, which seems tempting .. but still looking
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The jawbone seems slimmer than the fitbit. As for the syncing issues with the jawbone, that was before when it was only for iOS. Now that it syncs with android, I've had no issues. I honestly had more sync issues with the fitbit than I did with the jawbone. You should be able to catch good deals on either one though. Another option that's could be worn on the wrist or clipped to you is the jawbone move. It's basically a jawbone up24, but with a user replaceable battery. It's also significantly cheaper than both the flex and up24
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Ordered a misfit flash.. On black Friday needless to say hasn't even shipped yet. It was a bargain at $24, it does distance, steps, calories burned and sleep. Pretty sure it has a clock too.
Might post a review at some point if I'm happy with it
Anyone using smartwatch? Share Experiences and thoughts here.
I am thinking of buying G Watch Urbane
http://i1.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/000/481/790/669.jpg
Go for it. You will be a BOSS. Seriously, it will change your life.
Have been think about getting one for a while, but they are pretty expensive in Australia and I would personally wait a little bit longer for the technology to mature.
Sent from my SM-N920C using Tapatalk
I use a asus zenwatch.
It is very usefull for some things.
When you get messages/calls at work you can have a quick look if its important.
Maps navigation (walk) you dont need to look at your Smartphone anymore.
Music skip Songs
OK Google feature: Send whatsapp to... (When driving), reminder, translator....
I have a G Watch.
Having a smart watch is pretty usefull when you recieve messages or calls, u can look at the watch and see or respond without turning on your phone.
Also u have maps and other apps that are pretty usefull..... If u are a runner is great!
At the end is a watch with smart capabilities... Time and date plus the basics of the phone...
metteduch said:
Anyone using smartwatch? Share Experiences and thoughts here.
I am thinking of buying G Watch Urbane
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using Pebble Steel, which is based on the original Pebble watch. The value and functionality is fantastic. First of all, it looks good and performs extremely well as a watch. I picked it for just $100 around holidays, and at that price it's worth the money even if it did not have any "smart"watch functionality. Some good points about it:
1. Great as a watch. The time always stays in sync with network time. There are about a gazillion good looking watch faces you can download.
2. Delivers notifications from the phone (calls, messages, etc)
3. Weather and battery charge display on many popular watch faces.
4. Will last 7-10 days on one battery charge
5. waterproof
6. Android compatible (of course)
7. Cheap
8. Many many free apps.
Poor points:
1 bit "color" display is very readable and saves you battery, but some people want a color display.
I think the activity/fitness tracking features are a bit gimmicky.
The newer versions of Pebble are worth checking out.
Don't know why are all smartwatches are so expensive???
EvilKing009 said:
Don't know why are all smartwatches are so expensive???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you can find pebbles on swappa for typically less than $100, plus the pebble classic dropped to $100 MSRP
pebbles are awesome, I rock the steel and it's great, the battery life is ridiculous and it does notifications really well (music control is nice too)
they don't bite off more than they can chew like some other smartwatches
I highly recommend an asus zenwatch 2, it only costs $130 on (or at) bestbuy and has specs similar to "flagship" smartwatches. The only thing it doesnt have is a heart rate monitor. It also is one of the only smartwatches with a speaker, whenever google adds functionality for a speaker on android wear.
I wish those watches weren't so expensive
yes I do ,moto 360
I have an ASUS Zenwatch 2 and can highly recommend it!
It is available on Amazon and at Best Buy, etc. for $129 with the brown band (which actually isn't terrible), but I also picked up a steel 22mm milanese band for $11 and it looks great!
I'm using an Asus Zenwatch. It's very useful for eg answering whatsapp.
I have a Samsung Gear LIVE, pretty useful for the notification (but I use some filter)
I have the LG G Watch the original I snagged it for $100. Best thing I've done. It's mostly to learn to leave my phone alone in my pocket. I can't talk through the watch which is really fine with me, you can use a Bluetooth headset for music and phone calls so no biggie. I have two phones so I also have a second watch the LG G Watch R for my LG G3. Just remember that you can't pair more than one phone to the watch.
Quick text and email replies, start apps while driving eg: navigate to x location, start music, call B contact. That's what the watch does best. No heart rate monitor, not an accurate pedometer it will get better!
Sent from my VS985 4G using Tapatalk
I had a zenwatch. Worked fine with my G2. But after a few days i sold it. In a few years i'll get interested again. For now i don't find it useful.
Using Pebble Time. You can find discussions about pebble vs. other (android wear) watches on reddit.
Extremely happy with my watch. It's not pricey as other watches, 150$ and you get one week battery life.
I'm using the LG Urbane. It's nice but the phone's battery sure has taken a hit (even though I use it less).
LG Watch R and yes, love it
Hey all,
I'm looking to get a smartwatch for my birthday this month, and I'm on the fence between this watch and the Gear S3.
I use a wearable only for notifications, and I do hear that the Gear S3 is a little bad in that respect (especially with Whatsapp that I use a lot).
But the S3 has a standard strap and i like the looks slightly better.
Well so I wonder, how do you guys like it? I know that forums are usually for people with problems trying to find a solution, so we read "negatives" mostly. So would you recommand it?
re: watch bands
kipue said:
Hey all,
I'm looking to get a smartwatch for my birthday this month, and I'm on the fence between this watch and the Gear S3.
I use a wearable only for notifications, and I do hear that the Gear S3 is a little bad in that respect (especially with Whatsapp that I use a lot).
But the S3 has a standard strap and i like the looks slightly better.
Well so I wonder, how do you guys like it? I know that forums are usually for people with problems trying to find a solution, so we read "negatives" mostly. So would you recommand it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have a little patience and wait there will be
many third party watch bands for the Zenwatch 3
to choose from in the near future.
Misterjunky said:
If you have a little patience and wait there will be
many third party watch bands for the Zenwatch 3
to choose from in the near future.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, sure, but that's not the actually most important
How do you feel about it?
I bought this watch at the end of 2016. I wear it every day and since now I'm happy with it. I had a zenwatch 1 before and this one looks better. I use it mostly for notifications. The battery life is OK, at least as good as zenwatch 1 : It last almost 2 days. The charger is far better. The screen is great. Sometimes the automatic brightness is a bit slow. Even if I don't use them too much, the 2 extra buttons wihch allow to launch any app are a good idea.
If you don't need HR sensor I think zenwatch 3 is a better deal than gear s3 (less expensive and thinner). Waiting for android wear 2.0 to see if it improves the experience
:good:
I've had a pebble 1st gen (backed it on kickstarter), a gear fit, an Lg G watch, an mtk2052c and a moto 360 1st gen.
The Zenwatch 3 is in my opinion the best looking and operating. I'm very happy with it.
Of all the smartwatches I've had it gets the most attention and i love the fact I can have an always on display last a day easily, I get from 5.30am till 10-11pm with around 40% left. I usually wear it at night and a 30 min charge when I'm showering/shaving gets me back to 100%
I bought mine right before Xmas, and I just basically wanted to try one out. I really expected that I would end up returning it. Now it is nearly the middle of February, and I would not trade this watch now for anything else. lol. I really like it! It always gets lots of comments, and two people who have seen it have purchased their own.
Nice to hear, thanks for your opinion, guys ^^
I'm going to get one too, yeah, sound like the best choice on a non Samsung phone and the more I look at it the more I like it
It's a little hard to find in Hong Kong strangely but, well, that's part of the fun haha
D1ave said:
I've had a pebble 1st gen (backed it on kickstarter), a gear fit, an Lg G watch, an mtk2052c and a moto 360 1st gen.
The Zenwatch 3 is in my opinion the best looking and operating. I'm very happy with it.
Of all the smartwatches I've had it gets the most attention and i love the fact I can have an always on display last a day easily, I get from 5.30am till 10-11pm with around 40% left. I usually wear it at night and a 30 min charge when I'm showering/shaving gets me back to 100%
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Similar path for me. Pebble-->Moto 360-->ZW3. The ZW3 is, by far, the best watch. Battery is great and it looks like a very nice, regular watch. I get lots of compliments on it.
Love mine....had a Moto, a Zenwatch 1 and 2 previously (and a Martian) each new generation gets better. The Zenwatch 3 looks and feels much classier and the screen is lush
Zenwatch 3 is my first smartwatch I'm having it 2.5 months and I'm really happy at general.
1.Solid battery life meaning 1.5-2 days with always on display on for 12-14 hours per day use.
Getting Plenty of notification(2 email account ,WatchApp) music control,changing watch faces several time per week.
2.Attractive beautiful design and solid well build quality.
3.Smooth responsive from OS.
4.Excellent OLED screen.
5.Fast charging is also a nice feature( just 30-40 minutes to full charge from 15-20%)
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
asus zenwatch 3
my watch suits me but for the battery life it will last two days only with a black face and white hands other wise 24 hours tops. If you could get a battery pack as advertised it would give you a good full day. depending on you spend i would go for the samsung gear thee depending how big your wrists are they cost over 300 pounds new and are 3mm thicker app. i bought mine from ebay it came from Poland perfect sealed box. good luck i hope you make the right choice.
I got my ZW3 for Christmas. I own six mechanical watches and I tend to wear the Zenwatch more often out of them all.
I've seen the Fossil Q, Huawei, Moto 360, and everything else in person and yeah, they're nice, but this is the best looking one out there. People at work have complimented on it a few times.
Battery does pretty well. Easily lasts 24 hours and the fast charge really is FAST. I pushed the Fossil Q faces to it and I think they look better on the Zenwatch! Lol.
The only other watch I'd consider right now is the Gear S3. It is pretty neat and the price dropped recently.
Bought my watch last Sunday, so far I'm really happy with it.
Battery life isn't perfect yet, but read that it could take some days before it's optimised.
Simply love being able to read notifications on my watch without having to grab my phone first. Also noticed I finally start using "ok google" now, never really liked having to grab my phone for it.
Now I use it for simple tasks like setting a timer, reminding me to do a task, etc.
No complains yet, other than having to wait a bit longer for 2.0 than I expected. But I'll manage
@R_Hybrid where did you get the Fossil Q faces?
DaringDomino3s said:
@R_Hybrid where did you get the Fossil Q faces?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@DaringDomino3s Under Apps & Themes in the Huawei watch forum here. There's a thread with the apk files there.
R_Hybrid said:
@DaringDomino3s Under Apps & Themes in the Huawei watch forum here. There's a thread with the apk files there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, maybe if I get more time free, I'll fiddle with it, I'm not currently confident with adb to mess with it just yet.
I thought it would just be something I install on my phone and it shows up on the watch.
DaringDomino3s said:
Thanks, maybe if I get more time free, I'll fiddle with it, I'm not currently confident with adb to mess with it just yet.
I thought it would just be something I install on my phone and it shows up on the watch.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Super easy to push it via adb. The video he posted with the apk shows how to do it.
It just takes a bit to get the Android SDK set up on your computer if you haven't done so already.