What can you do with a smartwatch?

Smartwatches have evolved far beyond simple timekeeping. Today, they are powerful wearable devices that enhance everyday life, offering advanced features like health tracking, contactless payments, notifications, and more. But what exactly is a smartwatch, how does it work, and what should you consider before buying one?

19.05.2025 | Reading time: 7 minutes

What is a smartwatch?

A smartwatch is a digital watch with smart features that connects to your smartphone or operates independently using a SIM or eSIM. It allows you to receive notifications, track your fitness, answer calls, read messages, and even make payments on the go. Modern smartwatches integrate sensors, advanced displays, and dedicated operating systems, making them versatile tools for communication, productivity, and wellness.

Key features of a smartwatch

One of the biggest advantages of a smartwatch is the ability to stay connected without always reaching for your phone. You can manage notifications, calls, and messages directly from your wrist while also keeping track of your health and fitness. Some of the standout features include:

Notifications & Calls: Get real-time alerts for calls, messages, emails, and social media notifications. Many smartwatches allow you to answer calls and reply to messages with voice commands or pre-set replies.

- Health & Fitness tracking: Keep track of daily activity, monitor heart rate, sleep quality, and even stress levels. Some models offer SpO₂ monitoring and ECG readings to detect potential health issues.

- Music & Navigation: Control music playback, adjust volume, or switch tracks without using your phone. With built-in GPS, you can also get turn-by-turn navigation while running, walking, or cycling.

- Contactless payments (NFC): Make fast and secure transactions using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay.

- Voice assistants: Use Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa for quick voice commands, setting reminders, or checking the weather.

Most smartwatches feature high-resolution touchscreens, enhanced by physical buttons or rotating bezels for easier navigation

How does a smartwatch work?

Most smartwatches pair with your smartphone via Bluetooth, ensuring seamless synchronization of notifications, calls, and app data. This lets you manage your phone’s essential features from your wrist. Some models also include Wi-Fi or LTE connectivity, allowing them to function independently without a smartphone.

Key components

Smartwatches consist of several key hardware components that enable their advanced functions:

- Processor: The brain of the smartwatch, managing apps, tracking, and notifications.

- Touchscreen display: High-resolution OLED or AMOLED screens for clear visibility and smooth touch interaction.

- Sensors: Advanced tracking for heart rate, SpO₂ levels, movement, and even temperature.

- Battery: Ranges from one-day life on high-end models to several weeks on some fitness-focused smartwatches.

-Operating system: Smartwatches run on watchOS (Apple), Wear OS (Google), or proprietary platforms like Samsung’s Tizen or Huawei’s HarmonyOS.

Connectivity options

There are several ways a smartwatch can stay connected:

- Bluetooth: Standard method for syncing with a smartphone.

- Wi-Fi or LTE: Allows independent functionality without relying on a phone.

- eSIM or nano-SIM: Lets the smartwatch make calls and use mobile data even when your phone isn’t nearby.

Advanced smartwatch features

Health & Fitness tracking

Smartwatches are powerful tools for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. Depending on the model, they offer:

- Step & Activity tracking: Monitor daily movement and calories burned.

- Heart rate monitoring: Continuous tracking with alerts for abnormal spikes or drops.

- Sleep analysis: Detailed breakdowns of sleep patterns to improve rest quality.

- Workout & Sports modes: Track different exercises like running, swimming, cycling, and HIIT workouts.

- SpO₂ & ECG readings: Measure blood oxygen levels and detect heart irregularities.

- Stress & Breathing exercises: Monitor stress levels and provide guided breathing sessions.

Notifications & Communication

- Call alerts & Quick replies: Get incoming call notifications and answer directly from your wrist (on supported models).

- Messaging & emails: Read SMS, WhatsApp, Telegram, and emails without checking your phone.

- Calendar & Reminders: Set event notifications and daily reminders to stay organized.

Contactless payments

- Secure transactions: Pay quickly with built-in NFC using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay.

- Public transport integration: Many regions allow smartwatch-based payment for metro and bus rides.

Music & Navigation

- Music Playback: Store or stream music, control playback, and adjust volume.

- Public transport integration: Many regions allow smartwatch-based payment for metro and bus ridesGPS & Route Tracking: Get real-time directions for navigation, hiking, and cycling.

Customization & Apps

- Custom watch faces: Choose a style that suits you.

- App downloads: Install apps for weather, news, workouts, and more.

- Widgets & Shortcuts: Quickly access key information.

How to choose a smartwatch – A buying guide

Choosing the right smartwatch depends on several factors, including compatibility, features, and budget. Here’s what to consider:

- Compatibility: Ensure it works with your phone (Apple Watch for iPhones, Wear OS for Android, or universal models that support both).

- Essential features: Prioritize functions you’ll use daily. Do you need in-depth health tracking, LTE connectivity, or music storage?

- Design & Build: Choose a case material that fits your style—aluminum for lightweight wear, stainless steel for durability, or titanium for a premium feel. Straps also vary between silicone, leather, and metal.

- Battery life: Smartwatches with OLED displays may need daily charging, while simpler models can last up to two weeks.

- Standalone vs. Bluetooth: If you want a watch that functions without a smartphone, opt for an LTE/eSIM model.

- Price range: Budget-friendly smartwatches offer basic tracking, while premium models like the Apple Watch Ultra and Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 provide advanced features and high-end materials.

eSIM for Smartwatches

An eSIM-enabled smartwatch gives you total freedom by connecting directly to the mobile network—no smartphone needed. Make calls, send messages, and use mobile data wherever you are.

Why choose an eSIM smartwatch?

✔ Use it independently – perfect for sports, outdoor adventures, or business trips.
✔ Stay connected – receive calls and messages anytime, anywhere.
✔ Fast LTE connection – stream music, use apps, and navigate seamlessly.
✔ Hassle-free activation – no physical SIM card required, your eSIM is set up digitally.

Leading mobile providers, including yallo, offer dedicated eSIM plans for smartwatches, ensuring a flexible and cost-effective connection.

yallo eSIM plans for smartwatches: Stay connected anywhere

With our eSIM plan for smartwatches, you’re always online—whether you're working out, on the go, or away from your phone. yallo offers tailored eSIM data plans, letting you make calls, receive messages, and browse the internet right from your wrist.

✔ Calls & messages directly from your smartwatch
✔ eSIM plans for total independence
✔ Easily add it to your existing yallo plan

Choose your smartwatch plan today and enjoy seamless connectivity, wherever you are!ctivity!