What Does Apple Watch 2 Do

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The Apple Watch Series 2, released in September 2016, was a significant upgrade over its predecessor, introducing several new features and improvements. This professional article provides a comprehensive overview of what the Apple Watch Series 2 does, detailing its functionalities, technical specifications, and user benefits.

Enhanced Display

Brighter Display

• Apple Watch Series 2 features a display that is twice as bright as the original Apple Watch.
• With a brightness level of 1,000 nits, the screen is easier to read in direct sunlight.

Retina Display

• The Series 2 retains the Retina display, offering sharp and vibrant visuals.
• It supports Force Touch, allowing for additional functionalities through pressure sensitivity.

Built-in GPS

Standalone GPS Functionality

• One of the standout features is the built-in GPS, allowing users to track their outdoor activities without needing to carry an iPhone.
• The GPS functionality provides accurate data on distance, speed, and route for workouts like running, cycling, and hiking.

Integration with Fitness Apps

• The built-in GPS seamlessly integrates with fitness apps like Apple’s Workout app and third-party applications.
• Users can view detailed maps and workout summaries directly on their Apple Watch and paired iPhone.

Water Resistance

Swim-Proof Design

• Apple Watch Series 2 is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.
• The watch automatically locks the screen during swimming workouts to prevent accidental taps.

Swim Tracking

• It includes swim tracking features that can record laps, distance, stroke type, and calorie burn.
• The Workout app provides specific swim metrics and detailed post-swim summaries.

Performance Enhancements

Dual-Core Processor

• The Series 2 is powered by a dual-core S2 processor, offering improved performance and responsiveness.
• Apps launch faster, and overall system navigation is smoother compared to the first-generation Apple Watch.

watchOS Updates

• Series 2 ships with watchOS 3, which includes several new features and performance enhancements.
• Regular updates to watchOS ensure that the device continues to receive new functionalities and improvements.

Fitness and Health Tracking

Comprehensive Fitness Tracking

• The Apple Watch Series 2 tracks a wide range of physical activities, including running, cycling, swimming, and walking.
• The Activity Rings (Move, Exercise, and Stand) motivate users to stay active and complete their daily fitness goals.

Heart Rate Monitoring

• The watch features an optical heart rate sensor that continuously monitors the user’s heart rate.
• Heart rate data is used to provide insights into workout intensity and overall cardiovascular health.

Third-Party Health Apps

• Series 2 supports a variety of third-party health and fitness apps, offering users flexibility in choosing their preferred tools.
• Apps like Strava, Nike Run Club, and MyFitnessPal can sync data with the watch for a comprehensive fitness tracking experience.

Notifications and Communication

Notifications

• Users receive notifications for calls, messages, emails, and app alerts directly on their wrist.
• The Taptic Engine provides gentle taps to notify users, ensuring they stay informed without needing to check their phone constantly.

Quick Responses

• The watch allows for quick responses to messages through preset replies, voice dictation, emojis, and scribble input.
• Users can make and receive phone calls using the built-in speaker and microphone.

Siri Integration

• Siri is accessible directly on the Apple Watch, enabling users to perform tasks using voice commands.
• Siri can set reminders, send messages, get directions, and more, making it a useful hands-free assistant.

Customization and Watch Faces

Customizable Watch Faces

• Series 2 offers a variety of customizable watch faces, allowing users to personalize their device.
• Users can add complications (small widgets) to watch faces, providing quick access to information like weather, calendar events, and activity progress.

Interchangeable Bands

• The watch supports a wide range of interchangeable bands, making it easy to change the look of the watch to suit different occasions and styles.
• Bands are available in various materials, including silicone, leather, and stainless steel.

See Also: Does Apple Watch 1 Track Sleep

Apps and Connectivity

App Store Access

• Users can access the App Store directly from their Apple Watch to download and install apps.
• A variety of apps are available, including fitness, productivity, travel, and entertainment apps.

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Connectivity

• The watch connects to the iPhone via Bluetooth, ensuring seamless syncing of data and notifications.
• It also supports Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing the watch to remain connected even when the iPhone is not nearby.

Music and Media Control

• Users can control music playback on their iPhone or directly on the watch if music is stored locally.
• The watch can also control media playback on compatible Bluetooth devices, such as headphones and speakers.

Safety and Emergency Features

Emergency SOS

• Series 2 includes an Emergency SOS feature, allowing users to quickly call emergency services by pressing and holding the side button.
• The watch can also send a message with the user’s location to their emergency contacts.

Fall Detection

• While fall detection was introduced in later models, Series 2 users can still manually alert emergency services if needed.
• The watch’s accelerometer and gyroscope can detect sudden movements, providing some level of fall detection capability.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery Life

• The Apple Watch Series 2 offers up to 18 hours of battery life with typical use.
• Battery life can vary depending on usage patterns, including GPS tracking and workout monitoring.

Magnetic Charging

• The watch comes with a magnetic charging cable that easily attaches to the back of the device.
• Charging the watch typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach a full charge.

Accessibility Features

Accessibility Options

• Apple Watch Series 2 includes several accessibility features to assist users with disabilities.
• VoiceOver, Zoom, and Taptic Time are some of the features designed to make the watch more accessible.

Hearing and Vision Assistance

• The watch can pair with compatible hearing aids and supports real-time text for communication.
• It also offers high-contrast settings and larger text options for users with vision impairments.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Series 2 is a versatile and powerful wearable device that offers a range of features designed to enhance the user’s lifestyle. From fitness tracking and health monitoring to communication and customization, the Series 2 provides numerous functionalities that make it a valuable companion for daily activities. Its introduction of built-in GPS, water resistance, and performance enhancements marked a significant step forward in the evolution of the Apple Watch, setting a new standard for smartwatches in the market.