Looking for answers to "what can a smartwatch do" beyond the usual step counting and heart rate tracking? You’re in the right place! Smartwatches today can do some pretty weird but surprisingly useful things that many Malaysians don’t know about. Let’s dive into 7 strange yet real features your smartwatch might have — and why they actually work.
Editor
Mae An NG chevron_right
Table of Contents
7 Weird Things Smartwatches Can Track
Smartwatches are smart these days. We love them because they make life easier. Here are the seven weird things a smartwatch can track!
1. Detect your stress levels
Your smartwatch can sense when you’re stressed by measuring tiny changes in your heart rate and skin activity. It even suggests breathing exercises to help you calm down. So next time you feel tense during work or traffic jams in KL, your watch has your back!
2. Track your breathing rate
Using flashing green lights on your wrist, smartwatches can measure how fast you breathe. This helps detect if you’re relaxed or if something’s wrong, like during sleep or exercise.
3. Monitor your sleep quality (Beyond just hours)
Smartwatches don’t just count your sleep hours. They analyze your sleep stages and can even detect sleep apnea, a common problem some face but don’t realize.
4. Detect early signs of illness
Some smartwatches track changes in heart rate variability, skin temperature, and blood oxygen levels. They can warn you about potential health issues before you even feel sick. Imagine your watch alerting you to a heart problem early enough to save your life!
5. Emergency SOS and fall detection
If you fall or feel unsafe walking alone at night, you can tap your smartwatch to send your location to emergency contacts or even the police. This feature is a silent guardian for personal safety, especially useful in busy cities.
6. Track your typing patterns (Yes, really!)
Smartwatch motion sensors can pick up your wrist movements while typing. Researchers have shown it’s possible to figure out what you’re typing just by analyzing these motions. It sounds creepy, but it shows how sensitive these devices are.
7. Remind you to drink water before you feel thirsty
Dehydration is common in our hot weather. Some smartwatches can detect early signs of dehydration and remind you to drink water before you even realize you need it.
Simple Tips to Care For Your Smartwatch
By following these easy tips, your smartwatch will last longer, look good, and work better.
1. Keep It Clean
Always clean your smartwatch with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or soaps, as they can damage the screen and straps.
2. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Don’t leave your smartwatch under direct sunlight or in a very cold car. Extreme heat or cold can reduce the battery life.
3. Charge It Properly
Use the charger that came with your smartwatch. Avoid overcharging — once it reaches 100%, unplug it to protect the battery.
4. Check the Water Resistance
Even if your smartwatch is water-resistant, don’t wear it for long swims or in very hot showers. Always check the water-resistance level in the manual.
5. Clean the Strap
Remove the strap every few weeks and wash it gently with water and mild soap. Let it dry completely before putting it back on.
6. Update the Software
Always update your smartwatch’s software. Updates can help fix bugs, improve battery life, and add new features.
7. Turn It Off Occasionally
Just like your phone, switch off your smartwatch once a week for a few minutes. This can help it run smoother.
Final Thoughts
So, what can a smartwatch do? More than you think! From weird health tracking to personal safety tools, these tiny devices pack powerful features that actually work. If you’re still unsure about getting one, remember: it’s not just about telling time or counting steps anymore. It’s about having a smart helper on your wrist that looks out for you every day.