Apple Watch Series 2 42mm Features Prices Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview of Apple Watch Series 2 42mm

The Apple Watch Series 2 42mm, announced in September 2016 and released in December of the same year, is a smartwatch that offers a blend of style and functionality. Despite being discontinued, it remains a favored option among tech enthusiasts who value its features and performance. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifications and features that make this Apple watch a distinctive gadget in the wearable tech space.

Design and Build

The Apple Watch Series 2 42mm exhibits a meticulously crafted design meant to appeal to a variety of tastes. It measures 42.5 x 36.4 x 11.4 mm and weighs 52.4 grams, making it both compact and lightweight. The construction incorporates a glass front using sapphire crystal, a ceramic/sapphire crystal back, and a stainless steel frame, ensuring durability and an elegant appearance.

Display

This smartwatch features a 1.65-inch Retina OLED display capable of delivering 1000 nits of peak brightness, which ensures visibility even in bright sunlight. The screen resolution stands at 390 x 312 pixels with a density of approximately 303 pixels per inch. The display is shielded by sapphire crystal glass, providing a robust defense against scratches and impacts.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Apple Watch Series 2 42mm is powered by the Apple S2 chipset, built on a 16 nm process. It boasts a dual-core 780 MHz Cortex-A7 CPU, complemented by a PowerVR G6200 GPU, which together ensure smooth operation and an efficient performance experience. Paired with 512MB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage, this watch handles tasks and apps effectively, though it does not support expandable storage via a card slot.

Operating System and Software

The smartwatch runs on watchOS 3.0, with the ability to be upgraded to watchOS 6.2.8. This operating system provides a user-friendly interface and access to a wide range of apps optimized for health, fitness, and everyday management tasks. The ongoing software updates from Apple have extended the usability of this device, even years after its initial launch.

Connectivity and Communication

Although it lacks cellular connectivity, the watch is equipped with various communication methods, including Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP. It also supports NFC, which can be used for Apple Pay, allowing users to make transactions directly from their wrist. Geolocation services are catered for by the inclusion of GPS and GLONASS.

Health and Fitness Features

One of the key highlights of the Apple Watch Series 2 42mm is its health and fitness capabilities. It comes equipped with an accelerometer, gyroscope, and heart rate monitor, enabling users to track their physical activities accurately. These sensors are pivotal for providing insights into workouts, daily motion, and heart health, making it a valuable tool for fitness enthusiasts.

Battery and Charging

The device is powered by a non-removable Li-Ion 334 mAh battery. Charging is convenient with its wireless charging capabilities, allowing users to seamlessly power up their smartwatch without the hassle of plugging it in.

Sound and Audio

For audio functionalities, the Apple Watch Series 2 42mm is fitted with a loudspeaker. However, it lacks a 3.5mm jack, meaning users must rely on wireless headphones or other Bluetooth-enabled audio devices to enjoy audio content.

Body Variants and Customization

Recognizing the importance of personalization, Apple offers the Series 2 42mm in multiple color and band combinations. Options include sport bands in silver case/white and black case/black, leather bands in silver case/blue, brown, orange, and stainless steel bands in silver case/silver and black case/black configurations. This variety ensures that users can select a watch that matches their style preferences.

Price and Availability

Upon its release, the Apple Watch Series 2 42mm was priced at approximately 700 EUR. Despite being officially discontinued, it can still be found through secondary markets, where pricing will vary based on condition and availability.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Series 2 42mm remains a noteworthy device due to its comprehensive suite of features and elegant design. Its capabilities in health and fitness tracking, coupled with good performance and a stylish build, make it a valuable accessory for many users. While newer models have since emerged, the Series 2 continues to hold appeal for those seeking a reliable smartwatch with a classic Apple design.