Top News

I tested an Android phone with a built-in smartwatch – my thoughts after a month

115

wp300hero.jpg

There are certain brands that have carved a niche for themselves, and Oukitel is one of them. The company creates phones and tablets that are rugged enough to withstand the rougher side of work and play. They are built to last, and in my experience, they do. However, most of the devices look like they’re part phone and part Transformer, so they aren’t for everyone.

Also: Can a Linux laptop replace my MacBook? This one is off to a good start

But if you’re into that thing, they’re pretty cool — especially when they come with accessories. Such is the case with the Oukitel WP300 The WP300 watch module in its watchband.

Pop the module out of the phone and into the watch band, and you’re good to go.

Jack Wallen/ZDNET

My experience

I’m accustomed to reviewing Oukitel phones, so pulling a phone out of a box that weighs actual pounds (instead of ounces) doesn’t bother me. It’s heavy, and there’s no way around that. 

At the same time, though, it’s pretty cool. As is with most Android phones, the initial setup was as simple as it gets:

Because of the accoutrement, however, there are some additional steps to take. For example, you need to install the Da Fit app so the watch can sync with the phone. 

Also: I put Linux on this 8-inch mini laptop, and it’s filled a niche role for me

I will warn you that the Da Fit app is filled with ads, and it really wants you to pay for an account. The ads can be a bit off-putting to the point where you might not want to even use it. And you don’t have to — as without the app, the watch works — you just won’t see the data on your phone.

The WP300 earpiece/watch module.

The back side of the watch module reveals the Bluetooth module. Clever!

Jack Wallen/ZDNET

When the earpiece is left in the phone, it doubles as a second tiny screen, where you can run any app that’s installed on the watch. The light is a separate module that doesn’t do double duty. You turn on the light with the Camping Lights app, where you can use it as an SOS, a very bright flash, a full light, a half-light, or a quarter light.

As the warning says, do not shine this light in someone’s eyes — It’s that bright.

ZDNET’s buying advice

Do I recommend this phone? That’s a bit tricky, but like most of Oukitel’s phones, I can say this: If you need the most rugged handset on the market (that won’t cost you thousands of dollars), the Oukitel WP300

Source : ZDNet

Previous ArticleNext Article
Send this to a friend