The Huawei Watch Ultimate: the best smartwatch you probably didn't know about.
Some smartwatches tend to grab attention, but if you're looking for a different option that is compatible with both iOS and Android, don't overlook the Huawei Watch Ultimate.
Huawei has successfully consolidated its position in the wearable market with a rich history, and its latest model, the Huawei Watch Ultimate, stands out as a luxury option in the realm of smartwatches. At first glance, it might be the smartwatch that many would overlook. After several days of use, I am impressed by its distinctive style and simplicity.
This smartwatch, which has a price tag of approximately £750 (around $983), departs from the adventurous design that characterizes models like the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, opting instead for a more classic and luxurious aesthetic. While its size and design may not appeal to everyone, for those seeking a smartwatch made from high-quality materials with an eye-catching appearance, this model is ideal. Personally, I am not a fan of the text on the bezel or the design of the lugs, but the rest of the watch manages to stand out from other pricey options on the market. Its robust design gives a sense of solidity, and the use of liquid zirconium metal enhances its quality. The buttons feel very satisfying to the touch, even rivaling the Tag Heuer Connected Calibre E4 in terms of quality.
The ceramic bezel adds a special shine, although it is not rotatable. The back of the watch is also ceramic, and while the rubber strap I am using is comfortable, it doesn't feel as luxurious. Huawei includes a titanium metal bracelet in the box, which is a nice extra. The main feature that stands out in the design is its size, which is truly large, even for someone accustomed to wearing Casio G-Shock watches. The model boasts a 48mm case that can be somewhat difficult to wear under a formal shirt due to its thickness of 13mm.
The installation process for the Huawei Watch Ultimate has improved significantly since my previous experiences with other versions. It requires the Huawei Health app for setup, which is available on several platforms but not on Google Play, which can be a hurdle for Android users. However, downloading it from Huawei's website is quick and easy. Pairing with the watch only involves scanning a QR code, although a software update took about 30 minutes to complete. After that, it was just necessary to grant permissions for notifications and location.
One positive aspect of the Watch Ultimate is the improved notification support on Android, which is received effectively and promptly. However, interaction with these notifications is only guaranteed for Huawei phones. From the moment we started using it, it’s clear that the experience is enjoyable.
Regarding specific functionalities, the Huawei Watch Ultimate includes robust features for golfers, with a dedicated app that tracks courses and provides distance data and course recognition via GPS. It also includes tools for navigation during hikes, which can be very useful on long walks. While I haven’t been able to test these features thoroughly, the activity detection is quick and efficient.
The 1.5-inch AMOLED display stands out for its brightness and sharp resolution, protected by a sapphire crystal. The software interface is intuitive and allows for smooth navigation, with notifications and health data accessible with just a swipe. Battery life is another strong point, as Huawei claims it can last between four and eight days, or up to 14 days with light use. In tests I’ve conducted, I still have 79% charge left after constant use and active functionality.
In summary, the Huawei Watch Ultimate combines high-quality materials, unique design, and innovative features, making it an attractive choice in the smartwatch market. Despite its positioning at the higher end of Huawei's range, its compatibility with both Android and iOS makes it stand out as a valuable alternative to the more limited versions from other brands. While there are more accessible models within Huawei's lineup, the Watch Ultimate could be the smartwatch that many have been waiting for, especially those seeking a luxury device with remarkable functionalities.
