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Apple Watch Series 2 has been out for quite some time now, having been released in September 2016. It features a larger display, fitness tracking capabilities, and more tools than previous iterations. So is it worth buying or should you go for a newer model in 2022?
Fitness Tracking
One of the main reasons why you may want an Apple Watch these days is its fitness tracking. The Series 2 has tracking abilities for heart rate, different types of exercise, and even sleep. It is also water-resistant so that you can use it while swimming.
While those are some clear improvements made in the move from the Apple Watch Series 1 This watch does not support cellular data, so you will need your phone with you at all times if you want your watch to record GPS.
Your phone will also need to be connected to cellular data or WiFi. Newer models have cellular connectivity themselves, but the Series 2 does not. So if this is an important feature to you, the Series 2 might not be the best fit.
Current Cost
The Apple Watch Series 2 is 6 years old now, so the price has reduced considerably. This makes it one of the more affordable Apple Watches, suitable for anyone on a budget, but with the obvious caveats and availability considerations.
But, essentially, if major retailers no longer stock a device, you may want to try and stretch our budget to something more modern.
Support
Apple itself no longer sells the Series 2 on its website anymore, which is usually a good rule of thumb when considering the outlay of an older model.
Apple releases updates for a minimum of five years for all of their products so that only ensured that new updates were being released until 2021.
At the time of writing, the Series 2 can still be updated to watchOS 6.3, but will not update beyond that. It also won’t be compatible with devices using iOS 15 or later. For that, you’ll need to look at the Apple Watch Series 3.
So yes, this watch is great for people who want the basic function of an Apple Watch without spending too much money on one. But you still need the right iPhone ecosystem to get the most out of it.
Is The Apple Watch Series 2 Worth It In 2022?
If you are looking for a smartwatch that offers a lot of functionality, then the Apple Watch Series 2 probably isn’t for you. However, if you just want something simple that tracks your activity, then you might find the Apple Watch Series 2 useful if you have an older iPhone too.
The key consideration? You will always need to be close to your phone if you want to make the most of your Series 2 watch, as you will need your watch to piggyback off of the data or WiFi capabilities of your phone.
With the Series 7 Apple Watch available, it’s really worth considering if being five iterations behind is a good move when spending your money.
Other Options For You
If you want your watch to be independent from your phone, the Series 2 isn’t going to cut it. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to jump straight to the Apple Watch Series 7. Instead, you can opt for the Series 3.
The Series 3 Apple Watch has cellular capability, as do the newer watches, but it is also the cheapest. It has similar capabilities to the Apple Watch Series 2 too, so you’re really only paying a slightly higher price for the cellular ability.
Plus, there will be updates to WatchOS 8 for the Series 3, meaning there’s more life left in it yet.
Apple Watch Series 2 – Summary
Overall, the Apple Watch Series 2 is an okay option for anyone looking for a simple Apple Watch without the hefty price tag that the newer ones come with. It tracks your fitness, activity levels, heart rate, and more.
The only issues with the Apple Watch Series 2 are that you cannot use it independently without a connection with your phone, and the lack of updates. If you can get on board with these slight drawbacks, then it may be for you.