The original Apple Watch, or Series 0, was revolutionary when it launched in 2015, setting the stage for the smartwatch industry. But eight years later, how does it hold up in 2023? After spending a week with it, here’s what I’ve discovered about its usability today, and who it might still work for.
What Works Well
- Basic Notifications
The original Apple Watch still shines as an extension of your iPhone. It’s great for receiving notifications, checking quick updates, and viewing calendar reminders without pulling out your phone. - Call Quality
Surprisingly, the call quality is excellent for a device from 2015. The built-in microphone and speaker are serviceable for answering calls in quieter environments. - Native Apps
Apps like the Notes app for grocery lists and the stopwatch work seamlessly. However, don’t expect compatibility with modern third-party apps like Spotify or CarPlay. - Fitness Basics
For light fitness tracking, it gets the job done. It tracks steps, heart rate, and calories, though with some limitations.
What Doesn’t Hold Up
- Battery Life
The battery is a major challenge. Even after a full charge, it barely lasts through a moderate day, especially during workouts. - No GPS or Waterproofing
If you’re running or cycling outdoors, you’ll need your phone for GPS tracking, as the watch relies heavily on the iPhone for location data. It’s also not waterproof, so swimming or even wearing it in heavy rain is a no-go. - Dim Display
The screen brightness struggles in direct sunlight, making it hard to see in outdoor settings, even at max brightness. - Missing Features
There’s no Apple Pay, no always-on display, no sleep tracking, and limited workout activity options. Modern conveniences like unlocking your MacBook or controlling your Apple TV aren’t supported.
Who Can Use the Original Apple Watch in 2023?
The Series 0 isn’t for everyone, but it still holds some utility:
- Minimalists: If you want basic smartwatch features like notifications and step tracking without breaking the bank, it’s a nostalgic and functional choice.
- Apple Collectors: For those who appreciate Apple’s history and want to experience its first-ever smartwatch, this is a piece of tech nostalgia.
- Light Users: If you’re someone who doesn’t need advanced fitness tracking or modern integrations, the original Apple Watch might still be suitable.
Final Thoughts
In 2015, the original Apple Watch was groundbreaking, introducing features we now take for granted. While it struggles to keep up with modern demands, it still has charm for the right user. However, for anyone looking for practical daily use or fitness tracking, investing in a more recent model like the Apple Watch SE 2 (starting at $399 AUD) would be a much better choice.
If you’re after a slice of Apple history or a simple companion to your iPhone, the Series 0 might still find a place in your tech lineup. But for most Australians in 2023, it’s likely time to retire the original and move on to something more current.