GPS-only on Apple Watches are one of my favourite inventions. But what does it mean? In simpler terms, GPS only means that your Apple Watch is connected to GPS, even when your iPhone is not nearby.
Certain limitations exist on what Apple can and cannot do without the help of GPS. While I also have cellular models that can work independently, GPS-only on Apple Watches do not have that same level of independence.
In GPS-only mode, your Apple Watch can track your fitness and health; however, you cannot make calls or send texts. For this, you would need Wi-Fi or cellular internet.
What Can GPS only Apple Watch Do?
Track Workout & Health
With the GPS model, you can track your workout and activities and stay aware of your calories.. You can also track distance and pace while working out. Another important feature is that this smartwatch can also track your health.
You can track heart rate, oxygen rate, and so much more. Being an avid fan of workouts, this feature is something I look for in my smartwatches.
Set Alarms
With my GPS-only Apple Watch, I can still set alarms and reminders. So, I use my watch to notify me when I have important meetings or appointments. I believe this is an important feature that can help people stay on track even without carrying their iPhone around.
Use Apple Pay
Making payments without your iPhone is also easy if you have a GPS-only Apple Watch. I like this feature because I usually make all my payments through my iPhone, but with this feature, I can make payments on the go.
Play Music
I am someone who always needs to blast music to get things done. When I have my GPS Apple Watch on me while running, I like to play music on it. You can also listen to your favourite podcasts and audiobooks with this watch on.
However, you need to pre-download music or podcasts before listening to them. You won’t be able to listen to current songs without wifi. So, your only option is to listen to pre-downloaded stuff.
Use Offline Apps
For quickly scribbling down, I use my GPS-only Apple Watch. It allows you to use this app even without Wi-Fi. Other offline apps which you can use include calendar, voice memos, photos, compass, stopwatch etc.
Limitations of the GPS-Only Apple Watch: What It Can’t Do Without Internet or iPhone
- GPS-only, Apple Watch cannot make or receive calls unless it is connected to an iPhone or has a Wi-Fi network.
- With this watch on, I cannot send texts as well.
- GPS only Apple Watch also does not allow you to stream music, watch podcasts or get live weather updates. All of these features are only available with the internet.
- One of the most disappointing features of this phone is that it also does not allow you to make emergency SOS calls. You can also avail of this feature by connecting it to your iPhone or purchasing a cellular Apple Watch.
- Another drawback of this app is that it does not allow you to send live locations.
- One factor that amazed me was that even the use of Siri is limited in GPS only Apple Watch. Again, you need your iPhone or network for this feature to work properly.
- In fact, you cannot use any internet-based features with GPS only Apple Watch.
Factors To Consider When Getting A GPS-Only Apple Watch
Price
I know Apple products are always expensive, but I always consider the price point when I buy a new gadget. The price of GPS-only Apple Watches is relatively low; however, they do have limited options.
The price of cellular models is definitely higher. Cellular models also require a data plan, which means additional bucks. Hence, considering all this, GPS models are generally more affordable.
Battery Life
With smartwatches, I want a battery life that is relatively high. GPS Models have an advantage here since their battery life is better than that of cellular models. Cellular models have more features, which can drain their battery, while GPS models tend to last longer.
However, with a good charging routine, you can overlook these issues. However, be sure to always consider this factor when purchasing one.
Features
GPS-only models have very limited options. They allow you to track fitness and health and offer navigation apps. Cellular models, on the other hand, have many features that make them stand out.
To make it easy, I like to list the features that are important to me. Cellular mode is a good option if I cannot live without taking calls and need to see and respond to messages right away. On the other hand, if you only need a smart watch for navigation and tracking only, then a GPS-only model is a good pick.
Wrapping Up
Selecting a GPS-only Apple Watch or a cellular one depends on one’s life choices. I like the GPS-only Apple Watch because it helps me keep track of things I want to do. However, if you lead a busy life and want all notifications directed to your Apple Watch, then this may not be your best choice.
I find the GPS-only Apple Watch helpful in its own way, but of course, it has several disadvantages over the cellular one. However, it ultimately comes down to needs, features, and personal choice, which one should consider most before making this big purchase.
