I Restarted Using Apple Watch After Two Years and Can’t Believe I Ever Quit
We live in an era where technology evolves at a breakneck pace, and the wearable market is no exception. It is a common narrative among tech enthusiasts to abandon a device for a period only to rediscover it later with a fresh perspective. This is precisely what happened to us when we decided to reintegrate the Apple Watch into our daily ecosystem after a two-year hiatus. The experience has been nothing short of a revelation. We are not just talking about incremental updates; we are discussing a paradigm shift in how we perceive health, connectivity, and productivity. The wearables landscape has matured significantly, and the Apple Watch, specifically with the advancements in watchOS, has solidified its position as the premier smartwatch on the market.
In this comprehensive review, we will dissect the reasons why we initially stepped away, what prompted our return, and why we are now firmly planted as daily users. We will explore the nuances of health monitoring, the evolution of battery life, the utility of cellular connectivity, and the seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. If you are contemplating a return to the smartwatch world or are skeptical about its utility, this analysis is designed to provide the clarity you need. We aim to demonstrate that the Apple Watch is no longer just a luxury accessory but a fundamental tool for modern living.
The Initial Disconnect: Why We Walked Away
To understand the gravity of our return, we must first address why we left. Two years ago, the smartwatch experience felt fragmented. We recall the Apple Watch Series 4 or Series 5 era vividly. While innovative, the device often felt like a tether to our iPhones rather than a standalone asset. The battery anxiety was real; getting through a full day with heavy usage required careful management. We found ourselves charging the device twice a day, a chore that quickly became tedious.
Furthermore, the health metrics, while present, lacked the depth we craved. The heart rate monitoring was accurate during workouts but offered little insight into resting heart rate variability or overall cardiovascular health during the night. The sleep tracking capabilities were rudimentary at best, requiring third-party apps that drained the battery further. We felt that the device was demanding too much attention for the value it provided. The constant notifications, though customizable, became a source of digital noise rather than utility. We needed a device that worked for us, not one we had to constantly manage.
The State of Wearables Two Years Ago
Looking back, the hardware limitations were apparent. The processor speeds, while decent, resulted in occasional lag when launching complex apps. The display technology, although OLED, lacked the always-on functionality that made glancing at the time feel natural. We missed the tactile feel of a traditional timepiece and found the smartwatch features to be a novelty that wore off quickly. The ecosystem integration was there, but it felt beta-stage. Handoff between devices was inconsistent, and Siri on the wrist was often a test of patience rather than a convenience. We concluded that smartwatches were a “nice-to-have” rather than a “need-to-have,” leading to our decision to abandon the wrist entirely for two years.
The Catalyst for Change: What Brought Us Back
The decision to restart our Apple Watch journey was not impulsive. It was driven by a convergence of software maturity and a shift in our personal health priorities. The release of watchOS 9 and the subsequent updates introduced a level of sophistication that was previously missing. We read about the new Advanced Running Dynamics, the Medications app, and the enhanced Sleep Stages tracking, and our curiosity was piqued.
Simultaneously, we noticed a shift in our lifestyle. We became more conscious of sedentary behavior and the importance of heart rate variability (HRV) as a recovery metric. We needed a tool that could provide objective data to guide our wellness journey. The Apple Watch, we realized, had evolved into a medical-grade wearable rather than just a gadget. The promise of FDA-cleared ECG and irregular heart rhythm notifications added a layer of security that we couldn’t ignore. It was time to give the device a second chance, armed with the latest hardware and software.
The Hardware Evolution
We opted for the latest generation available to us, ensuring we experienced the peak of Apple’s engineering. The difference from two years prior was immediately palpable. The Retina display was brighter, the chassis felt more premium, and the S-series silicon offered blistering speed. But the real game-changer was the battery life. With low-power mode and optimized charging, we could finally see a path to all-day usage without the constant fear of a dead battery. The Always-On Retina display was the feature we didn’t know we needed; glancing at our wrist to check the time without raising it became second nature, integrating seamlessly into our daily flow.
Rediscovering the Apple Ecosystem
One of the primary reasons for our renewed commitment is the sheer depth of Apple ecosystem integration. When we say the watch works seamlessly with the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, we mean it with a level of precision that competitors struggle to match. The continuity is not just a marketing term; it is a functional reality.
Handoff and Continuity
We frequently switch between our iPhone, iPad Pro, and MacBook. With the Apple Watch, the experience is unified. If we start a workout on the watch, it syncs instantly to the Fitness app on the iPhone. If we unlock our Mac, the watch does it automatically. The Universal Clipboard feature allows us to copy a code on the iPhone and paste it directly on the Mac via the watch. This frictionless interaction saves minutes every day, which accumulates into hours over a month. It transforms the watch from a peripheral into a central hub of our digital life.
Notifications and Focus Modes
We were pleasantly surprised by how well Focus Modes have matured. Previously, notifications were a barrage. Now, we can curate exactly what reaches our wrist. When we set our iPhone to “Work Focus,” only critical work apps and contacts can ping the watch. This intentional filtering has made the watch a productivity tool rather than a distraction device. The haptic feedback is refined; we never miss an alert, yet it never feels intrusive. It is a subtle nudge that keeps us on track without breaking our concentration.
A Deep Dive into Health and Fitness
The core value proposition of the Apple Watch has shifted firmly toward health and wellness. This is where we believe the device truly outshines its predecessors and competitors. We are no longer just counting steps; we are analyzing complex biometrics that inform our lifestyle choices.
Advanced Sleep Tracking
Sleep tracking is perhaps the most significant addition that kept us wearing the watch at night. In the past, we removed the watch to charge it before bed. Now, with improved battery efficiency, we wear it 24/7. The Sleep Stages feature on watchOS is remarkably accurate. It differentiates between Core, Deep, and REM sleep using movement and heart rate data.
We wake up each morning to a detailed breakdown of our sleep architecture. We have learned that our Deep Sleep is often compromised by late-night screen time, and the data convinced us to adjust our evening routine. The Wake Up metric, which tracks how often we wake up during the night, has been instrumental in identifying environmental factors affecting our rest. This is not vanity data; it is actionable insight that directly impacts our energy levels and cognitive performance.
Heart Health and ECG
The ECG app is a feature we never thought we would need, but now we rely on it. It provides the ability to take a medical-grade electrocardiogram right from our wrist. While we are healthy, having the ability to check for atrial fibrillation (AFib) provides immense peace of mind. We have used it during periods of high stress or after consuming too much caffeine, and the immediate feedback helps us regulate our physiology.
Furthermore, the Irregular Rhythm Notification works passively in the background. We don’t have to do anything; the watch simply monitors our pulse and alerts us if it detects a pattern consistent with AFib. This feature alone justifies the cost of the device, as it serves as a preventative health monitor.
Blood Oxygen and Respiratory Health
The Blood Oxygen (SpO2) sensor is another critical tool, especially in a post-pandemic world. We use it to establish a baseline for our respiratory health. It is fascinating to see how our oxygen levels fluctuate during high-altitude hikes or intense cardio sessions. While it is not a medical diagnostic device, the trends provide valuable context for our overall fitness. If we notice a consistent dip in our baseline, it prompts us to rest or seek medical advice. This proactive approach to health is something we never had before restarting our Apple Watch journey.
Cycle Tracking and Reproductive Health
For those who menstruate, the Cycle Tracking app is an invaluable resource. It goes far beyond simple period logging. By monitoring wrist temperature during sleep, the app can provide retrospective ovulation estimates and more accurate cycle predictions. The data privacy controls are robust, ensuring sensitive health information remains secure. We have found this feature to be incredibly accurate and helpful for understanding hormonal health and overall well-being.
Fitness+ and Workout Metrics
The integration with Apple Fitness+ has transformed our home workouts. We can stream a HIIT or yoga class on the Apple TV, and our watch acts as the remote control and data hub. Real-time metrics like heart rate zones, calories burned, and closing our rings appear on the screen, gamifying the experience. The Activity Rings remain one of the most effective motivational tools ever designed. The psychological satisfaction of “closing the rings” creates a positive feedback loop that encourages daily movement. We have found ourselves taking evening walks just to ensure those rings are closed, a behavioral change that has benefited our physical health immensely.
The Convenience of Cellular Connectivity
A major factor in our reluctance to return was the dependence on the iPhone. However, with the cellular model of the Apple Watch, that tether is severed. We can now leave our phone at home and remain fully connected.
Freedom During Workouts
Running with a phone is cumbersome. With the cellular Apple Watch, we can stream Apple Music or Podcasts directly via Bluetooth headphones, track our run via GPS, and still receive calls and messages. If we get separated from our group or need to summon a ride, help is a button press away. This freedom is liberating. We feel lighter and more focused on the activity at hand.
Safety and Fall Detection
The Fall Detection and Emergency SOS features are enhanced with cellular connectivity. If we suffer a fall while hiking or cycling alone, the watch can automatically call emergency services and notify our emergency contacts, sending our exact location. This is a lifesaving feature, particularly for older adults or those who enjoy solo outdoor adventures. The peace of mind this provides is immeasurable. We believe this is a non-negotiable feature for anyone living an active lifestyle.
Refining the Daily Experience
Beyond the headline features, it is the daily minutiae where the Apple Watch shines. We have compiled a list of small but significant ways the device has streamlined our existence.
Authentication and Security
Unlocking the iPhone with Face ID while wearing a mask was a hassle. However, the Unlock with Apple Watch feature solves this instantly. We can glance at our phone, and it unlocks immediately if we are wearing the watch. This extends to Apple Pay; we no longer need to fumble for our phone or wallet. A double-click of the side button on the watch brings up our payment cards. It is fast, secure, and hygienic.
Smart Home Control
Controlling our smart home devices is now effortless. We use the Home app on the watch to toggle lights, adjust the thermostat, or unlock the door for a guest. If we are in bed and realize we left the kitchen light on, we can turn it off without reaching for the phone. The NFC capabilities allow us to interact with compatible smart locks and accessories directly from the wrist.
Navigation and Travel
Navigating a new city is significantly easier with the watch. Haptic feedback on the wrist taps gently to indicate turns left or right. This allows us to keep our phone in our pocket and our eyes on the road (or the surroundings). We rely on this heavily when walking or biking, as it is less obtrusive than looking at a screen. Maps on the watch are surprisingly detailed and responsive, especially with cellular data.
watchOS: The Software Backbone
The hardware is nothing without software, and watchOS is the engine that drives this experience. The updates over the last two years have been substantial. The interface is cleaner, the app grid is more logical, and the Siri intelligence is sharper.
Customization and Watch Faces
We love the ability to customize the Watch Face to suit our mood or activity. The Face Gallery offers a vast array of options, from the minimalist California face to the data-rich Modular face. We can create specific faces for different contexts—a workout face with large metrics, a work face with calendar complications, and a leisure face with weather and photos. This personalization makes the device feel uniquely ours.
Third-Party App Support
Two years ago, third-party apps were sluggish. Today, they are native and fast. We use Spotify to download music for offline listening, Strava to log detailed cycling routes, and Things to manage our to-do lists. The App Store on the wrist is functional, allowing us to discover new tools without touching the iPhone. The developer ecosystem has matured, ensuring that almost any task we need can be accomplished from the wrist.
Battery Life: The Elephant in the Room
We cannot discuss the Apple Watch without addressing battery life. It was our biggest gripe before, and we are happy to report it is vastly improved. While it is not a multi-day device like some rugged sports watches, it is now a reliable all-day companion.
With typical usage—which includes a 45-minute workout, constant notifications, and a sleep tracking session—we end the day with approximately 20-30% battery remaining. The introduction of Low Power Mode is a lifesaver. When enabled, it turns off the Always-On display and background heart rate monitoring, extending battery life significantly for long days or travel. We have found that with careful management and optimized charging settings (which preserve battery health), the daily charging routine is no longer a burden but a habit, much like brushing our teeth.
Durability and Design
The build quality of the Apple Watch is premium. We have tested it in rain, dust, and intense gym sessions. The sapphire crystal front on higher-end models is incredibly scratch-resistant. The aluminum casing is lightweight yet durable. We appreciate the standard 50-meter water resistance, which allows us to swim in pools and track those workouts accurately.
The variety of bands also contributes to its versatility. We switch between the Sport Loop for workouts (lightweight and breathable), the Milanese Loop for professional settings, and the Leather Link for evenings out. The mechanism for swapping bands is magnetic and instantaneous, allowing us to change the look of the watch in seconds. This adaptability means it truly is a watch for every occasion.
Privacy and Data Security
In an age of data breaches, we are hyper-aware of where our health information goes. Apple’s commitment to privacy is a major reason we trust the Apple Watch. All health data is encrypted on the device and synced to iCloud via HealthKit using end-to-end encryption. This means not even Apple can access our raw health data.
We control what apps have access to our data. The Privacy settings are granular; we can allow a fitness app to read our steps but deny it access to our heart rate or location. This transparency builds trust. When we are recording sensitive biometrics like ECG readings or cycle data, we need to know it is secure. The Apple ecosystem provides that assurance.
The Mental Health Aspect: Mindfulness and Stress Management
Health is not just physical; it is mental. The Mindfulness app (formerly Breathe) is a simple yet profound tool. We take a minute or two throughout the day to follow the animated prompts for a breathing session. It forces a pause in a hectic schedule, lowering heart rate and reducing stress.
Additionally, the Reflect feature provides thoughtful prompts to center our minds. We have found these micro-interventions to be incredibly effective in managing work-related anxiety. The watch tracks our heart rate variability during these sessions, providing data on how our body responds to stress reduction techniques.
Why This Time Is Different
We tried the Apple Watch before and quit. Why is this time different? It comes down to maturity. The hardware is powerful enough to handle complex tasks without lag. The software is intuitive and feature-rich. The health sensors are accurate and medically relevant. The battery life is sufficient for a 24-hour cycle. Most importantly, we have discovered use cases that provide tangible value to our lives.
We are no longer “testing” a gadget; we are relying on a tool. We rely on it to wake us up gently, to track our sleep, to guide our workouts, to keep us safe, and to keep us connected. The friction that caused us to quit two years ago has been largely eliminated. The Apple Watch has evolved from a tech curiosity into a mature, indispensable companion.
Conclusion: A Newfound Appreciation
Restarting our Apple Watch journey has been an eye-opener. We can’t believe we ever quit. The device has exceeded our expectations in every category, from health tracking to productivity. It has encouraged us to move more, sleep better, and stay connected in a controlled, intentional way.
For anyone who left the smartwatch bandwagon years ago, we strongly encourage a second look. The current generation of Apple Watch, powered by the latest watchOS, is a revelation. It is not just a watch; it is a comprehensive health and fitness platform, a seamless extension of your iPhone, and a personal safety net. We are smarter, healthier, and more efficient because of it. We are, without a doubt, smartwatch people now.
If you are ready to take control of your health and streamline your digital life, the Apple Watch is the device to do it. Join us on the other side—you won’t look back.