The Huawei Watch Ultimate is a pioneering smartwatch that features satellite SMS technology, allowing users to send and receive messages via satellite when traditional cellular networks are unavailable. This capability is particularly notable as it is the first smartwatch to support two-way Beidou satellite SMS, enabling both sending and receiving of messages[1][3][11]. Here's how it compares to other smartwatches:
Huawei Watch Ultimate
- Satellite System: The Huawei Watch Ultimate uses the Beidou satellite system for its SMS feature, which is primarily available in China[3][11].
- Activation: Users can activate the satellite SMS feature by holding a specific button on the watch[11].
- Technology: Huawei achieved this functionality through miniaturized RF modules and innovative antenna designs, ensuring efficient signal transmission in a compact device[9].
- Battery Life: The watch has a robust battery life, lasting up to 10 days under moderate use, though specific details on how satellite usage affects battery life are not widely reported[11].
Comparison with Other Smartwatches
Currently, there are no other mainstream smartwatches that offer satellite SMS capabilities like the Huawei Watch Ultimate. However, Apple is planning to introduce satellite texting capabilities to its smartwatches in 2025, using Globalstar's satellite network[5]. This feature will be aimed at enhancing connectivity for users in areas without cellular or WiFi coverage.
Future Developments
Huawei is also working on the Watch Ultimate 2, which will continue to support satellite SMS along with additional features like ultra-wideband (UWB) technology[7]. This suggests that Huawei is committed to advancing satellite communication in its wearable devices.
In summary, the Huawei Watch Ultimate stands out as the first smartwatch to offer two-way satellite SMS, leveraging the Beidou satellite system. While other smartwatches are not yet offering similar features, Apple's upcoming satellite texting capability will mark a significant entry into this space.
Citations:
[1] https://technode.com/2023/03/15/huawei-to-launch-satellite-connected-smartwatch/
[2] https://gearjunkie.com/technology/best-satellite-messengers
[3] https://www.huaweicentral.com/huawei-watch-ultimate-satellite-sms-feature-update/
[4] https://celest-watches.com/tag/huawei-watch-ultimate/
[5] https://www.pymnts.com/apple/2024/apple-brings-satellite-texting-to-its-smartwatches/
[6] https://consumer.huawei.com/za/community/details/Huawei-Watch-Ultimate-New-smartwatch-teased-with-satellite-connectivity/topicId-258302/
[7] https://www.huaweicentral.com/huawei-certifies-watch-ultimate-2-with-uwb-and-satellite-sms-support/
[8] https://www.adventurealan.com/best-satellite-communicator-zoleo-vs-inreach/
[9] https://www.vopmart.com/blog/post/Huawei-Watch-Ultimate-Review
[10] https://www.switchbacktravel.com/best-satellite-messengers
[11] https://www.phonearena.com/reviews/huawei-watch-ultimate-review_id5760