“This is the most personal device we have ever created.” – Apple CEO, Tim Cook.
That quote from Tim Cook speaks volumes to me, and I believe it to be true. Apple has never created a device that can be personalized like Apple Watch, but it goes much deeper than that. The intricacies of Apple Watch are more complex than switching out a Sport Band for a Milanese Loop, and it’s not about learning to use Apple Watch, but how you will use it.
One of the things that concerned me about Apple Watch is that it would only be a reactionary device. What I mean by that is you would only be responding to things that happened on your phone and getting feedback on your watch. That to me is a very expensive notification system, and perhaps not worth even the low-end price of $349.
However, after attending the keynote on March 9, I realized that Apple built-in a way for Apple Watch to also initiate actions without using the iPhone. That brings things to an entirely different level of usefulness and sophistication. Now we’re talking about a completely different type of device, and that may change the answer to whether or not you should buy one.
There is no doubt Apple Watch is a beautiful piece of craftsmanship. There are very few people in this world that have even seen Apple Watch, let alone wear one, but I’ve had that opportunity twice. I can tell you, it’s stunning.
The decision on whether or not you should buy one is probably going to be one of the most personal device decisions you’ve made in some time. It’s personal, it’s fashionable and it’s functional—only you can determine the importance of those three things.
If I can offer one piece of advice—don’t listen to those people telling you that you need to buy one, and don’t listen to the naysayers who say it will be a flop. Judge for yourself and your lifestyle.
I have yet to use an Apple Watch for an extended period of time, but from what I’ve seen, it will fit into my life pretty well. The question is for how long—I won’t know the answer to that until I get to spend some time with it.