BGR Flags 5 Signs Smartwatch Owners Should Upgrade, From Battery Fade to Software Cutoffs
Updated
Updated · Boy Genius Report · Jun 2
BGR Flags 5 Signs Smartwatch Owners Should Upgrade, From Battery Fade to Software Cutoffs
1 articles · Updated · Boy Genius Report · Jun 2
BGR outlined five cues to replace a smartwatch: worsening battery life, end of software support, better health features on newer models, physical wear or damage, and switching phone ecosystems.
Battery decline is the most practical trigger, the report said, because older watches may need multiple daily charges, disrupting sleep tracking, workouts and other always-on health features.
Software support and feature gaps can also force upgrades: a $249 Apple Watch SE 3 still gets current features, while older models can miss new watchOS tools, security updates and AI functions such as Pixel Watch smart replies.
Newer devices increasingly add health and connectivity upgrades — from sleep apnea or hypertension alerts to skin temperature, AI coaching, cellular and satellite emergency links — making replacement more attractive than repair.
The article framed smartwatches as a growing category, citing more than 127 million units sold in 2021 and annual model refreshes that keep upgrade options plentiful.