FAQs: Common Questions About Smartwatches in 2025
Do smartwatches work without a phone?
✅ Yes, but it depends on the model.
Most smartwatches require a smartphone for setup, app installations, and syncing data. However, there are LTE-enabled smartwatches that can function independently, allowing you to:
- Make and receive calls
- Send text messages
- Stream music
- Use GPS for navigation
💡 Best Smartwatch for Phone-Free Use: Apple Watch Series 9 Pro (LTE) and Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Ultra (LTE).
If you plan to use your smartwatch without a phone, look for models with built-in LTE or Wi-Fi connectivity.
Can a smartwatch measure blood pressure?
✅ Some can, but not all.
Blood pressure monitoring is available on select smartwatches, such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Ultra. These watches use optical sensors and pulse wave analysis to estimate blood pressure. However:
- Most require calibration with a traditional blood pressure cuff.
- They are not a replacement for medical devices but can be useful for daily monitoring.
💡 If you need accurate blood pressure readings, use a dedicated medical device.
Are smartwatches waterproof?
✅ Most modern smartwatches are water-resistant, but not all are waterproof.
Water resistance varies by model:
- IP68 Rating → Resistant to dust and submersion in shallow water.
- 5ATM (50m water resistance) → Suitable for swimming.
- 10ATM (100m water resistance) → Suitable for diving and extreme water sports.
💡 Best Waterproof Smartwatch: Garmin Fenix 8 (10ATM water resistance).
Can I track my sleep with a smartwatch?
✅ Yes!
Many smartwatches now include detailed sleep tracking that monitors:
- Sleep cycles (light, deep, and REM sleep)
- Sleep duration and quality
- Heart rate and oxygen levels during sleep
- Sleep disturbances (like snoring or waking up frequently)
💡 Best Smartwatch for Sleep Tracking: Fitbit Sense 3 (advanced sleep insights and Smart Wake alarms).
Can I use a smartwatch for running without carrying my phone?
✅ Yes, if it has built-in GPS.
Smartwatches with integrated GPS allow you to track your runs, cycling routes, and hikes without needing to carry your phone.
💡 Best Smartwatch for Running: Garmin Fenix 8 (multi-band GPS with offline maps).
If your smartwatch does not have built-in GPS, it will rely on your phone for location tracking.
Do smartwatches support mobile payments?
✅ Yes!
Many smartwatches come with contactless payment support, allowing you to pay at stores without your phone or wallet. Popular payment platforms include:
- Apple Pay (Apple Watch)
- Google Wallet (Wear OS smartwatches)
- Samsung Pay (Samsung Galaxy Watches)
💡 Best Smartwatch for Mobile Payments: Apple Watch Series 9 Pro and Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Ultra.
Can I use a smartwatch to control my smart home devices?
✅ Yes, if your smartwatch supports voice assistants like:
- Siri (Apple Watch)
- Google Assistant (Wear OS smartwatches)
- Amazon Alexa (Fitbit Sense 3, Google Pixel Watch 2)
With these assistants, you can:
- Turn on/off lights
- Adjust thermostat settings
- Lock/unlock smart doors
- Control security cameras
💡 Best Smartwatch for Smart Home Control: Google Pixel Watch 2 (Google Assistant integration).