In a world where technology is increasingly conspiring to steal our focus and attention, my goal is to teach you how to be more productive with Apple technology. I want to help you achieve what is most important to you and enjoy your life at the same time using technology instead of becoming another one of its victims. Pretty much everything I make points at that North Star. I believe in this message so much that I’ve staked my livelihood on it.
Sparky's Apple Watch Buyer’s Guide
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Hi friend, I’ve been wearing Apple Watches since day one, and the 2024 lineup is the most impressive yet. They make great holiday gifts, but here’s the thing: You don’t need to buy the most expensive model to get a great Apple Watch experience. Let’s break this down into plain English and figure out which watch belongs on your wrist. The Three Flavors of Apple WatchSeries 10: The Sweet SpotThis is the Goldilocks watch — not too much, not too little, but just right for most users. This year it got a larger display, thinner and now it has sleep apnea detection as Apple continues to add more medical/health sensors. What you get:
The sweet spot for: Most folks who want a great all-around Apple Watch without going overboard. Ultra 2: The BeastRemember when Apple used to run those “I’m a Mac” commercials? If they did that for Apple Watch, the Ultra 2 would be wearing hiking boots and a climbing harness. This thing is built like a tank, but a really smart, sophisticated tank. The standout features:
The weird bit is that this watch is now over a year old. In some ways, the Apple Watch Series 10 is superior. It’s not clear yet but it may be that Apple only updates the Ultra model every few years only. Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts, endurance athletes, and anyone who needs their watch to last more than a day. Also great if you just want the biggest, baddest Apple Watch out there. SE (2nd Generation): The Smart BuyHere’s the secret: the SE is probably all the Apple Watch most people need. It’s like getting 80% of the features for 50% of the price. No, you don’t get the fancy health sensors or Always-On display, but you do get a fantastic fitness tracker and notification machine. What’s included:
Ideal for: First-time Apple Watch buyers, kids, or anyone who wants to save some cash without sacrificing the core experience. Here’s What I ThinkAfter years of wearing various Apple Watches (and helping countless folks choose theirs), here’s my advice:
The Bottom LineYou really can’t go wrong here. Even the “budget” SE is a more capable device than the original Apple Watch we all drooled over back in the day. My recommendation? Don’t overthink it. The SE is great if you’re on a budget, the Series 10 is perfect if you want it all, and the Ultra 2 is there if you need something more robust. Read this post on the MacSparky blog In the NewsTim Cook Wired InterviewTim says that Apple Intelligence is on the same level of multi-touch on the iPhone. Apple keeps writing checks on Apple Intelligence being great. I hope they cash. Apple’s Too Conservative with Text IntelligenceSpeaking of Apple Intelligence, I think they need to put the pedal down more with text intelligence. Microsoft Recall Back in BetaThis idea of your computer just knowing all your business for you and letting you interact with it could be revolutionary if done right, with the right user interface, and while protecting your privacy. Boy do I hope Apple is working on something like this. Your pal, David Sponsor: Space/Time Mac Apps EventThere’s a special sale going on in the indie Mac developer community with some of my favorite apps. They are offering 76% off but only for a short time. Apps include TextSniper, AirBuddy 2, CleanShot X, Daisy Disk, Keyboard Maestro, and more. Unclutter, one of my favorite apps for managing daily files, notes and clipboard data is half off. Go check it out. This sale will not last long. |
David Sparks (MacSparky)
In a world where technology is increasingly conspiring to steal our focus and attention, my goal is to teach you how to be more productive with Apple technology. I want to help you achieve what is most important to you and enjoy your life at the same time using technology instead of becoming another one of its victims. Pretty much everything I make points at that North Star. I believe in this message so much that I’ve staked my livelihood on it.
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