I love smartwatches, but here's why I didn't wear one at MWC 2025.
I am a big fan of smartwatches, but I decided not to wear one at MWC 2025. Below, I explain my reasons and what I chose to wear instead.
The enthusiasm for smartwatches is undeniable, especially with the launch of the Apple Watch Series 10, a device that brings great satisfaction to its users. However, before his visit to MWC 2025, the author decided not to take a smartwatch to the event, a choice that he found rewarding. Now that he has returned home, he shares his reasons for this decision.
In the weeks leading up to his trip to Barcelona, he reflected on his relationship with watches. Smartwatches had sparked his interest in traditional watches, and since then he has built a diverse collection. However, as he often finds himself testing wrist technology, he didn't feel compelled to wear one for the event.
The option of the Apple Watch Series 10 was tempting, but its need for daily charging was a drawback. Charging another device during a trip didn't seem practical, and while there are alternatives, he prefers to avoid additional tech-related hassles. Comparatively, carrying multiple phones isn't as problematic for him, since they all share the same charging cable.
The OnePlus Watch 3 was also among his considerations, a smartwatch that, in his experience, had a good presence at the event. This option stands out not only because it is a recent model but also for its functionality. He believes it is one of the best Android smartwatches and could have lasted throughout his trip without needing a recharge.
However, the issue of notifications during a multi-day work trip became another deterrent. At trade shows, emails and messages are numerous, and he prefers to ignore them until he can attend to them properly. While he could activate 'Do Not Disturb' mode, that would require an extra step he doesn't wish to add to his routine.
Despite his desire to track his activity and sleep, he found the perfect solution in his Oura Ring 4. This ring provides him with all the necessary information without taking up space on his wrist, and since he has used it for years, he trusts the data it offers.
In summary, he didn't feel the need to wear a smartwatch or the willingness to deal with battery status or notification interruptions. His desire was to wear a traditional watch and enjoy the travel experience. For that purpose, he chose a Casio G-Shock, a model that is not flashy, ideal for the context of Barcelona, known for its crime. Ultimately, he settled on a limited edition of the G-Shock x ASRV DW-6900, a watch that he anticipates will bring him fond memories of his trip.
At the end of his experience in Barcelona, he has no regrets about not bringing a smartwatch. Although devices like the Apple Watch, OnePlus Watch 3, and Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 are excellent for daily use, the G-Shock DW-6900 ASRV becomes a symbol of his adventure, capturing the essence of the journey in a way that a smartwatch simply cannot replicate.
