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Apple Watch Edition Series 2 Specs Prices Pros & Cons Unveiled

Release Date
2016, December
Camera
NO
Battery
273mAh
Battery Type
5W
Processor
Apple S2
Screen
1.5"
Storage
8GB
Ram
512MB RAM
Operating System
watchOS 3.0, up to watchOS 6.2.8

Overview of the Apple Watch Edition Series 2 38mm

The Apple Watch Edition Series 2 38mm, launched in September 2016, is a premium variant of the Series 2 line of Apple Watches. Known for its luxurious ceramic build, advanced features for its time, and refined construction, this device represents Apple's dedication to merging technology with finely-crafted design.

Design and Build Quality

The watch boasts dimensions of 39.2 x 34 x 11.8 mm and weighs approximately 39.6 grams. The meticulously designed ceramic body, complemented by a sapphire crystal glass front and ceramic back, ensures not only a stunningly sleek appearance but also robust durability. The ceramic materials are known for being exceptionally resistant to scratches, contributing to the watch's longevity and maintaining its luxurious look over time. Unlike some other smartwatches, it does not support a SIM card, staying true to its core functionality as a high-tech gadget, yet with traditional watch integrity.

Display Features

The Apple Watch Edition Series 2 comes equipped with a 1.5-inch Retina OLED display, which is characterized by vivid and clear visual output, even under direct sunlight, thanks to its 1000 nits peak brightness. With a resolution of 340 x 272 pixels (~290 ppi density), the display is sharp and provides a vibrant user experience. The sapphire crystal glass adds another layer of toughness, making this watch ideal for a variety of everyday and exercise situations.

Performance and Operating System

The watch runs on Apple's S2 chipset, characterized by a dual-core 780 MHz Cortex-A7 CPU and a PowerVR G6200 GPU. This hardware combination offers reliable performance, adequate for day-to-day tasks, and manages power efficiently to prolong battery life. Originally shipped with watchOS 3.0, the device is upgradable to watchOS 6.2.8, allowing for improvements in performance and feature set over time. The device's capacity to adapt to new software updates extended its usability significantly.

Connectivity and Navigation

The watch does not feature cellular connectivity, which restricts some uses away from the paired iPhone. However, it supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0, facilitating easy connection and data transfer between devices. The built-in GPS and GLONASS further enhance the location tracking capabilities, vital for outdoor activities and navigation.

Memory and Storage

With 512MB RAM and 8GB of internal storage, the watch provides sufficient space for apps and data management, although it does not support additional memory expansion through card slots. Despite the fairly modest RAM in comparison to later models, the device performs efficiently within its intended scope of applications.

Sensors and Health Tracking

Equipped with sensors such as an accelerometer, gyro, and heart rate monitor, the Apple Watch Edition Series 2 is a competent fitness and health companion, allowing users to track various metrics related to physical activities and well-being. Its health apps provide insights and suggestions based on data gathered from these sensors, enhancing the user's health management efforts.

Battery Life and Charging

The watch is powered by a 273 mAh Li-Ion battery, designed to balance performance with battery life efficiently. Wireless charging capabilities make recharging the watch seamless. Under typical usage conditions, the battery is expected to last a full day, which competes well with contemporary smartwatches at its launch time.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Edition Series 2 38mm, priced initially around 1450 EUR, embodies a blend of luxury and functionality. While newer models have since taken center stage, the ceramic model remains a collector's item and a testament to Apple's innovative approach toward smartwatch design and performance. Although discontinued, it set a standard for subsequent releases regarding quality and consumer expectation.

Key Features of Apple Watch Edition Series 2 38mm

  • Durable build with Sapphire crystal glass front and ceramic back.
  • Bright Retina OLED display with peak brightness of 1000 nits.
  • Water-resistant design, ideal for tracking fitness activities.
  • Equipped with Apple S2 chipset and dual-core 780 MHz Cortex-A7 CPU for improved performance.
  • Comes with built-in GPS and GLONASS for accurate location tracking.
  • Includes sensors like accelerometer, gyro, and heart rate monitor for enhanced health tracking.
  • Wireless charging capability for added convenience.
  • 8GB internal storage and 512MB RAM.
  • Supports NFC for Apple Pay.
  • Upgradable from watchOS 3.0 up to watchOS 6.2.8.

Drawbacks of Apple Watch Edition Series 2 38mm

  • No cellular connectivity, limiting the ability to make calls or send messages independently of an iPhone.
  • Discontinued status, which might affect software updates and support in the long run.
  • No SIM card slot, restricting its functionality to be always tethered to a phone for full features.
  • No GPRS or EDGE support, which limits its network communication capabilities.
  • Non-removable battery, which could be inconvenient if the battery needs replacement.
  • Limited internal memory of 8GB with 512MB RAM, which may restrict how many apps or features can be installed and used simultaneously.
  • No card slot for additional memory expansion.
  • No 3.5mm audio jack, which may require users to rely on Bluetooth headphones.
  • Lack of USB port, which can make data transfer or charging options more limited.
  • Relatively high price point for the features offered compared to more recent models.
Network
Technology No cellular connectivity
2G bands N/A
GPRS No
EDGE No
Launch
Announced 2016, September. Released 2016, December
Status Discontinued
Body
Dimensions 39.2 x 34 x 11.8 mm (1.54 x 1.34 x 0.46 in)
Weight 39.6 g body (1.41 oz)
Build Glass front (Sapphire crystal), ceramic back, ceramic frame
SIM No
Display
Type Retina OLED, 1000 nits (peak)
Size 1.5 inches
Resolution 340 x 272 pixels (~290 ppi density)
Protection Sapphire crystal glass
Platform
OS watchOS 3.0, upgradable to watchOS 6.2.8
Chipset Apple S2 (16 nm)
CPU Dual-core 780 MHz Cortex-A7
GPU PowerVR G6200
Memory
Card slot No
Internal 8GB 512MB RAM
Camera
Sound
Loudspeaker Yes
3.5mm jack No
Comms
WLAN Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
Bluetooth 4.0, LE
Positioning GPS, GLONASS
NFC Yes
Radio No
USB No
Features
Sensors Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate
Battery
Type Li-Ion 273 mAh (1.03 Wh), non-removable
Charging Wireless
Misc
Colors Sport Band/White
Models A1816
Price About 1450 EUR

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