Unpacking the Apple Watch Series 1 Aluminum 38mm Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Overview of Apple Watch Series 1 Aluminum 38mm

The Apple Watch Series 1 Aluminum 38mm, launched in 2016, marked Apple's continued foray into wearable technology. Despite its later discontinuation, this model offered a mix of essential features at an accessible price point, appealing to users keen on entering the smartwatch market. With its sleek aluminum build, it served as both a functional device and a fashion statement.

Design and Build

The Apple Watch Series 1 comes with a glass front and a composite plastic back encased in an aluminum frame. The dimensions are 38.6 x 33.3 x 10.5 mm, making it a compact and lightweight option at just 25 grams. This design ensured that the watch was comfortable to wear for extended periods, appealing to users who valued both aesthetics and practicality. The use of Ion-X strengthened glass offered enhanced durability, making it resistant to scratches and daily wear and tear.

Display Features

The watch features a 1.5-inch Retina OLED display, boasting a resolution of 340 x 272 pixels (~290 ppi density), which provides sharpness and clarity for the user. The display technology allows for vibrant colors and bright visuals, even with the peak brightness of 450 nits. This made it relatively easy to view notifications, texts, and apps even under direct sunlight.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Apple Watch Series 1 is powered by the Apple S1P chipset. This 28nm chip, with a dual-core 520 MHz Cortex-A7 CPU and PowerVR G6200 GPU, provides efficient performance for its fitness tracking and app functionalities. While it may not match the computational power of newer models, it still delivers a smooth and responsive experience for basic tasks and fitness tracking.

Memory and Storage

With 8GB of internal storage and 512MB of RAM, the device offers ample space for storing apps, music, and updates. Although it lacks a card slot for expandable storage, the in-built capacity suffices for most users' needs, especially for those considering it as an entry-level smartwatch.

Connectivity

The watch supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0, allowing for wireless syncing with iPhones and other devices. NFC functionality is included, which opens up possibilities for seamless transactions and operations with other NFC-enabled devices. However, it lacks cellular connectivity, positioning it as a companion device rather than a standalone gadget.

Fitness and Health Tracking

Apple Watch Series 1 is equipped with sensors such as an accelerometer, gyro, and heart rate monitor. These features make it a competent fitness tracker, capable of monitoring various activities and providing valuable health data. From tracking steps, calories burned, to heart rate monitoring, it caters to fitness enthusiasts looking to keep tabs on their health metrics.

Battery Life and Charging

The device is powered by a non-removable Li-Ion 205 mAh battery. It supports wireless charging, offering convenience for users. While the capacity suggests limited longevity, the device has been optimized to last a full day with regular use, although power users might find themselves recharging more frequently.

Software and User Experience

Running on watchOS 3.0, the watch remains upgradable to watchOS 6.2.8, ensuring users have access to updates and new features as they become available. The user interface is designed to be intuitive, with features like customizable watch faces, notifications, and a variety of apps to enhance the user experience.

Availability and Pricing

Originally announced in September 2016 and released in December of the same year, the Apple Watch Series 1 has since been discontinued. However, it can still be found in various second-hand markets. At launch, it was priced around 270 EUR, appealing to those looking for a budget-friendly entry into the Apple ecosystem.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Series 1 Aluminum 38mm offered consumers a taste of Apple's smartwatch capabilities in a stylish package. While it doesn't boast the high-end features of its successors, its blend of design, functionality, and price made it a popular choice for users who are new to wearables or those who seek a companion device for their iPhone. Despite its discontinued status, it remains a relevant option in the second-hand market for buyers prioritizing cost over cutting-edge technology.