How to Get the Most Out of Your Smartwatch: 10 Features You Didn’t Know Existed

Smartwatches are packed with features that go beyond the obvious. Here are 10 hidden or lesser-known functions that can take your smartwatch experience to the next level:

1. Remote Camera Control
   Did you know your smartwatch can act as a remote control for your phone’s camera? With smartwatches like the Samsung Galaxy Watch or Apple Watch, you can open the camera on your phone and take pictures directly from your wrist. This feature is perfect for group shots or selfies where holding the phone isn’t convenient.
2. Customize Watch Faces for Battery Efficiency
   On many smartwatches, like the Apple Watch or Garmin devices, choosing energy-efficient colors like green and yellow for your watch face can significantly extend battery life. Since OLED screens consume more power with bright or blue colors, this small tweak can help you get more out of each charge.
3. Unlock Your Computer
   Your smartwatch can unlock your Mac (Apple Watch) or PC (Garmin) without the need to type in a password. Simply ensure your devices are connected via the same iCloud or Bluetooth settings, and you’ll skip the hassle of entering credentials every time you use your computer.
4. Switch Between Apps Seamlessly
   Tired of manually navigating through your apps? On the Apple Watch, double-tapping the Digital Crown quickly switches between the two most recently used apps. This is a time-saver when bouncing between apps like Music and Workout during a session.
5. Advanced Sleep Tracking
   Most smartwatches have basic sleep tracking, but newer models can track sleep stages, offering deeper insights into your REM cycles. For instance, Garmin and Apple Watch users can access advanced metrics like sleep quality and heart rate variability, allowing for better rest and recovery.
6. Customize Hot Keys for Quick Access
   On Garmin devices, you can assign hotkeys to physical buttons for instant access to common tasks like starting a workout or activating the flashlight. This feature is incredibly useful, especially if you’re wearing gloves or can’t use the touchscreen.
7. Use Siri or Google Assistant More Efficiently
   If you use voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant on your smartwatch, you can send messages or create reminders without touching your phone. Just tell your assistant the task, and it’s instantly synced across all your devices, enhancing your productivity.
8. Pay with Your Wrist
   Contactless payment via smartwatch is a convenient feature that many users overlook. With platforms like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, or Garmin Pay, you can leave your wallet behind and pay for groceries or a coffee with a quick tap of your watch.
9. Turn Your Watch into a Bedside Clock
   Enable “Nightstand Mode” on your Apple or Samsung Galaxy Watch, and it will function as a bedside clock when charging. This makes checking the time at night much easier without turning on your phone or watch screen.
10. Share Watch Faces
    Not only can you customize your watch face, but you can also share it with friends. On devices like the Apple Watch, long-pressing the watch face will bring up the option to share it, allowing you to send your customized complication settings to someone else.

These hidden features can greatly enhance your smartwatch experience, allowing you to use it as more than just a fitness tracker or notification hub. Explore these functionalities and get the most out of your wearable tech!