After the success that Sony’s Smartwatch 2 has had last year, the company decided to release the new and improved version of the smartwatch, also known by the name of the Sony Smartwatch 3 which comes forward with a couple of design changes, new features, but also software improvements, all of which aim at ensuring that the smartwatch is capable of delivering a better experience to users from all around the world.
Design
Just like the previous model, it seems like Sony has decided to go ahead with the rectangular shape, rather than a circular one. The rectangular screen combined with the watch’s rubber band give it the general sporty look which people can easily assimilate to the one found on a fitness band, although it is more than that.
While I think that the actual design of the watch is quite good, it doesn’t really have the possibility of being seen as a classic watch which can be worn anywhere, but rather a casual watch that should be only worn when a formal dress is not required. It is worth mentioning that the casual design of the watch actually makes it quite comfortable to wear, as the flexible rubber strap is of the right thickness and is also made from materials meant to keep allergies away.
An interesting thing that is worth pointing out about the Sony Smartwatch 3 is the fact that users have the possibility of removing the watch from the band, thus being able to change the bands in order to ensure that the smartwatch fits their personal style and current preferences. While there aren’t too many colours available on the market at this moment, reports have shown that Sony is planning to introduce a couple of more straps in the future, so this is really something worth looking forward to in the case that you are planning to get the Smartwatch 3.
Display
Another aspect where the Smartwatch 3 shines is its LCD screen. Sized at a total of 1.6 inches and with a 320x320 resolution, it is no doubt that it looks as sharp as advertised. The screen is also fairly bright and testing has shown that it is readable even in extreme sunlight, so in the case that you spend a lot of time outside, then wearing this watch will possibly make your experience better.
It is also worth mentioning that the colours are crisp and that the screen offers a generally pleasant viewing experience.
Unfortunately, we’ve noticed that the viewing angles of the watch aren’t really good in the case that you’re trying to look at the watch while not wearing it, but this isn’t really an issue, mostly due to the fact users usually have the watch on when looking at it.
Features
Perhaps the second most important factor to keep in mind after we’ve covered the design of the smartwatch is its operating system and features. Sony has decided to include Android Wear over on the Smartwatch 3, which is quite a good decision that puts it on an equal level with many of the other smartwatches that are available on the market at this moment.
Your device will therefore connect to your Android phone via low energy Bluetooth 4.0 and sync up, while also offering a variety of interesting information such as the current weather, notifications, calendar appointments and more, all of which will be displayed as cards that can be swiped on to dismiss or view more information.
The Sony Smartwatch 3 also features voice control, so in the case that it may be hard for you to use it at a certain moment in time you can easily go ahead and dictate mails, initiate web searches and even ask for other types of information such as the current time, or more.
Another great feature refers to the fact that users can now store music directly on the device, thanks to the fact that it also has 4GB of storage space included. This means that you don’t have to be connected to your phone at all times and can also enjoy quite a large number of functions like this as well.
Fitness
In terms of fitness, the Sony Smartwatch 3 manages to do a fairly god job, although it doesn’t have a heart monitor.
As it has a GPS and a pedometer built in, users can go running and have the watch track their activity and come up with interesting charts without any trouble. The device also has sleep tracking, so this is yet another great feature that makes it stand out from the rest.
Battery & Resistance
In terms of its battery life, the Sony Smartwatch 3 scores quite well, with around 2 days of usage. In the case that music streaming and the GPS aren’t used, the smartwatch also has chances of reaching around 3 days of total battery time, which is fairly good when compared to its competition.
The device is also waterproof and can be used while taking a shower or swimming without worrying that water will get in and affect the device. According to a couple of drop tests, it also scored quite well as it is impact resistant and only deemed to break in the case of a strong impact.
Price
There’s nothing really special over here, as the smartwatch is priced at around $270, which is exactly in tone with the rest of its competition.
Based on everything that has been outlined so far, I personally believe that the Sony Smartwatch 3 is definitely a major improvement when compared to its predecessor. Leaving aside the new features, the decision to use Android Wear, its better design and great screen, the device manages to stand out when used on a daily basis and also be considered quite reliable as well.
