Sometimes, technology that's intended to streamline our lives actually doesn't work as intended. Take, for example, the options for Bluetooth watches. These wristwatches function pretty much like normal watches -- stopwatch, timer, alarms -- but also pair to smartphones to alert users of new calls or messages, just in case the phone isn't within arm's reach 24/7. But by pairing the two gadgets, making the phone slightly more convenient has the effect of making the watch considerably less convenient. Bluetooth, put simply, is an energy sapper -- when two devices are paired, they're communicating constantly, even if there's no tangible evidence (like active downloads) on either end. In other words, if your watch is scanning your phone for new data, both batteries are draining even if you're not receiving any calls or messages. So while most people expect watches to chug away for a couple years without maintenance, Bluetooth-enabled watches require regular recharging in much the same manner and schedule as a smartphone.
In January of 2011, Casio announced a new G-Shock watch enabled with BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) technology, which uses a fraction of the energy to do the same thing. This Casio even runs on a regular watch battery and has a standard two-year battery life. (The caveat is that BLE is dependent on Bluetooth 4.0, so this watch may not be compatible with older smartphones.) The G-Shock brand, complete with its chunky style and durable construction, is all the better to reinforce the idea that a phone/watch Bluetooth pairing need not be a delicate combination.
Like its competitors, the Bluetooth G-Shock pairs to a smartphone and displays the phone's incoming data. The time, date and any previously set alarms on the phone sync automatically to the watch, and the phone's ringer can also be controlled through the watch. If the phone is lost somewhere in Bluetooth's range (about 30 feet), a command on the watch can make the phone ring so it's easily found.
Nearly a year after the G-Shock Bluetooth was announced, it wasn't yet listed amongst its G-Shock peers on Casio's website, but that hasn't stifled the lust of gadget bloggers. When it does become available, Casio expects developers to collaborate on a range of applications to increase its functionality, such as fitness trackers and stock tickers. You know, just like the smartphone that you'll now have to pull out of your pocket a little less often.
Pros
The phone is Bluetooth compatible. You can link your phone to the watch to access a range of services on the watch itself. These include incoming call alert on your phone that can be alerted on your watch by sending out a beep or vibration. In a similar way, the phone also supports push notification and can alert the user about social media updates such as those on Facebook and Twitter on the mobile device. The push notification is extended to emails as well wherein a beep and/ or vibration can alert the user to incoming mail.
Another feature is Phone Finder. This feature allows the owner of the watch to be alerted when the phone goes out of range. By sending a warning tone to the wearer, the watch can inform users in case their device is not on them. Moreover, this Casio G Shock watch has a time adjustment function, which enables synchronizing with time data received from the phone. Furthermore, it has a built-in tilt sensor to detect movement in the watch, while it is in power-saving mode and to automatically reconnect to the phone.
This Casio watch can also pick up location information from the phone and update the time zone automatically.
Cons
The biggest con of these watches is that they work only with iPhones currently. They can only be synced from iPhone 5 and iPhone 4S. When asked about an Android update, neither M Naka, MD of Casio India nor Kulbhushan Seth, VP, Casio India could throw any insight. All these functions are thus rendered absolutely useless unless you don’t have an iPhone to pair this watch with.
The Phone Finder feature, too, is a bit of a gimmick since the feature does not function if the stolen phone has been switched off after being stolen. Moreover, the range of its effectiveness leaves a lot to be desired as well.
Verdict
The Casio G Shock Bluetooth watch, officially called GB – 5600AB and GB – 6900AB, comes with a two year battery life and is priced at Rs 9995. It’s not that bad an investment at that price considering you still get G-Shock range’s durability and sporty look. But if you’re looking at it solely from a smartwatch point of view, we suggest you wait till Sony, Apple and Google release their watches before making a purchase.
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