After ten years of using an Apple Watch, I have experienced unexpected changes in my life.
Its success is not accidental.
The Apple Watch has become an everyday companion, touching my skin almost constantly, even accompanying me to bed, something I don’t do with other devices. This connection has evolved since Apple’s smartwatch was introduced in September 2014 and the first time I used it in March 2015. I didn't expect its use to become so habitual or to transform my daily routines.
My relationship with the iPhone is very different. Interacting with the phone is like diving into an ocean of information and activities. I spend time on various apps, checking emails and social media. In contrast, my interaction with the Apple Watch is more passive; I glance at it to check the time and receive discreet notifications on my wrist. While it's a more subtle connection, its influence is undeniable.
The Apple Watch has impacted my habits, such as the daily reminder to "stand up," which has been crucial in a context where sitting is recognized as harmful. Sometimes I ignore these alerts at inappropriate moments, like in the theater or during product launch events, but every time I dismiss a notification, I feel a twinge of guilt and often end up standing anyway.
One of the most notable changes has been in my approach to exercise. I used to engage in physical activity without any tracking, but now I find myself eager to close my "Activity Rings." Although I don't focus heavily on each element (Move, Exercise, Stand), I feel satisfaction when I complete them. This gamification has driven me to work harder to close the rings, seeking that small reward that produces a dopamine spike.
The Apple Watch has also been essential in the way I navigate. Since I tend to get lost easily, I rely on GPS navigation, and having directions on my wrist has been transformative. I feel that receiving a vibration before a turn keeps me better oriented, even though I still often get lost.
Regarding sleep technology, thanks to the new Apple Watch Series 10, I’ve been able to take the watch to bed. Previously, other smartwatches were uncomfortable for sleeping, but this lightweight design has changed the way I rest. While I don’t analyze my sleep stats in detail, I do appreciate the reports indicating that I’ve met my rest goals.
The Apple Watch is not only comfortable and practical; it also includes features like the ability to make calls, which sometimes makes me feel like the detective Dick Tracy from 20th-century comic strips. Although I don’t commonly take calls from the watch, at times, it’s the quickest and most effective option.
Time has flown by, and I have gotten used to using the Apple Watch for tasks I used to do manually, such as setting a timer. A decade ago, I wasn’t sure the Apple Watch would be as socially accepted as it is today. There were doubts about its necessity, given that many of us carried our phones in our pockets.
However, the Apple Watch quickly proved to be much more than a simple watch replacement. Its evolution into a health and wellness device has been remarkable, with numerous stories about its monitoring features that have saved lives, particularly related to heart health and other aspects.
Over the years, Apple has managed to position the watch as a versatile gadget, with various styles and functionalities, solidifying its place in the market. While the future of the Apple Watch seems promising, there is intrigue about the direction other devices from the brand, such as the Vision Pro, will take, as they still seek a clear purpose. The versatility and customization of the Apple Watch are undoubtedly part of its appeal.
With high expectations for what the next decade will bring, the Apple Watch has been more than just a device; it has been a significant change in my daily life.
