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Yesterday, the first test reports from major media houses regarding the new iPhone 11 generation Now numerous reviews of the Apple Watch Series 5 have been published – we summarize.
Here are a few key facts about the new smartwatch. The Apple Watch Series 5 introduces a function that many fans have been wanting for years - the always-on display. This means that the screen of the new Apple Watch remains permanently switched on if desired. The display is dimmed until the user raises their arm or taps the screen. This is made possible by a particularly efficient energy-saving mode - while the time is displayed, the activated watch face is of course also visible. Are you wondering whether the battery will suffer as a result? No - according to Apple, the watch should still offer around 18 hours of battery life. According to the first test reports, Apple has not exaggerated.
The battery life & the display
The Verge editor Dieter Bohn writes: "I love the Series 5's always-on screen. Apple's implementation is better than other smartwatches I've used for two reasons: It legitimately doesn't hurt battery life that much, and Apple keeps a small amount of color visible in ambient mode." Of course, Bohn also has something to say about battery life - he writes in his review: "But the big question is battery life: Apple claims 18 hours of standard use are still possible, and that's what I got. So, box checked - except the Series 4 usually exceeded that estimate.
I won't go so far as to say that the Series 5 has significantly worse battery life than the Series 4, but at best, it's on par. You'll be charging it daily." John Gruber of Daring Fireball was also blown away by the display of the new Apple Watch Series 5. The blogger writes: "For me, the always-on display is the Retina display of the Apple Watch - once you see it, you can't go back." TechCrunch editor Brian Heater was also not disappointed. He, too, reportedly made it through the day on one battery charge without a worry - despite the new always-on display.
The New Compass
Another feature is the compass – making the Apple Watch Series 5 the first smartwatch from Apple to feature a built-in compass. Mobile Syrup editor Patrick O'Rourke describes the feature as follows: "Interestingly, Apple has also added a compass to the Series 5. The app displays the wearer's inclination, altitude, latitude, and longitude. It's worth noting that the compass can also be added as a complication to certain watch faces. The compass also makes the watch's Apple Maps app more useful, as it now shows exactly which direction you're going."
The emergency call function
The LTE models of the Apple Watch Series 5 also have an international emergency call function. This means that users of such a smartwatch can call the local emergency number in over 150 countries. The feature can be used regardless of where the watch was purchased - an iPhone is not required - Apple emphasized this at the launch. The function itself remained untested, however, as a trip abroad would have been necessary - but it can be assumed that this also works as described by Apple.
Titanium & Ceramic
In addition to the familiar aluminum and stainless steel cases, the Apple Watch Series 5 is available in a titanium or ceramic version. While the ceramic version is only available in white, the titanium version can be selected in a dark or light version. The models were generally well received by testers – but the question of whether such a version of the watch is necessary could not be answered. The reason for this is – as many can imagine – that it is a personal decision. Do you want simple aluminum or stainless steel? If the user is willing to pay more, they can of course choose the luxury version – in the end, everyone has the same watch with the same functions, only the "packaging" (case) differs.
Conclusion
Looking at all the reviews, you quickly notice the common denominator – the always-on display. The new feature was well-received by all reviewers. While for some, it's even a reason to upgrade, others see it as a nice perk. Battery life certainly doesn't suffer as a result. Quote from Mobile Syrup: "It finally feels like a normal watch." The Apple Watch Series 5 is available starting at €449 from Apple or, alternatively, from Amazon
