As smartwatches become even more intelligent, we can expect to see a whole host of new technologies integrated into devices like the Apple Watch. We already have things like touchscreen technology and workout tracking. In the not-too-distant future, everything from blood pressure readers to Touch ID will be possible. But one of the main components customers are desperate for is Apple Watch visual functionality. More specifically, a camera.
So, with that in mind, we’ll look at the current Apple Watch visual functionality. What can they do and not do? We’ll cover it all. Here are the most frequently asked questions about an Apple Watch’s ability to ‘see’ what is going on around it.
Can Apple Watch Do FaceTime?
Video calling via FaceTime is one of the exclusive main features available on iPads and iPhones. There’s nothing quite like seeing a friend or loved one’s face as you talk to them. But does an Apple Watch have the capability to FaceTime? Yes and no, is the answer.
An Apple Watch cannot conduct a FaceTime video call. At least not in the way you would expect on other Apple devices, as it lacks a camera. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t use FaceTime Audio to make a call. Instead of using your cell phone data package for calls, connect to WiFi and use FaceTime Audio to link to other Apple devices. You can do this via the Contacts app. Or just say ‘Hey Siri, FaceTime (name),’ and your Watch will perform the call.
The video version of this won’t be available in the newest Apple Watch Series 7. Still, millions of fans can’t help but hope it will debut in future releases. And it would really allow the Apple Watch visual functionality to expand its offerings if it happens. Â
Can Apple Watch Do Face Recognition?
Camera and video capability are necessary for facial recognition. Unfortunately, because an Apple Watch does not contain a camera or video, it can not provide facial recognition functionality.
Apple Watch Visual Functionality and Face ID
Although the Apple Watch is capable of many marvelous feats, from incident detection to the ability to check your pulse and place an audio call, sadly, since it doesn’t have a camera, it cannot do Face ID. Hopefully, Apple will integrate this technology into future models of the Apple Watch. But the complexity of fitting so much inside a relatively small area on your wrist is a big challenge. Don’t hold your breath. It is unlikely to see a camera feature anytime soon.
How the Apple Watch Can Help When Wearing Masks
The Apple Watch doesn’t have a camera to perform facial recognition. However, an Apple Watch is a real asset if you’re trying to unlock your phone and your face is partially obscured.
Perhaps you wear a facemask to prevent the spread of coronavirus particles to others. Or maybe you are skiing with your eyes protected from the blinding slow. If you’re on the beach, you might wear sunglasses. Or perhaps you wear a mask for work. Even if your Apple Watch visual functionality is limited, in all of these situations, the Apple Watch can help.
If your phone is set to use Face ID, but your face is covered, simply use your Apple Watch to unlock your phone. Your phone has to be close by for this to work. And the smartwatch needs to be attached to your wrist and paired with your iPhone.
All you have to do is wake up the phone by touching the screen. Press the Home button or lift it up, look at it, and it will unlock thanks to the paired watch. Be aware though this feature does not work to verify identities when using Apple Pay or to access Keychain passwords.
Can I Use Apple Watch As A Baby Monitor?
It’s only natural to want to keep a protective eye over your sleeping child. Especially if you are in another room or outside. So, did you know you can turn your Apple Watch into a baby monitor? Several apps offer this feature, such as Cloud Baby Monitor and iCam.
You can use your own iPhone to create the video link, placing it near the baby’s cot. Alternatively, you can set up a camera capable of 4G with WiFi to send the signal.
Some apps only allow you to monitor baby activity, such as noise alerts or alerts to motion detected. Some can be used as a two-way walkie-talkie to calm your baby from a distance with the sound of your voice. Other more sophisticated apps allow you to broadcast the video stream directly to your Apple Watch. This means you can see them sleeping right there on your wrist. You can also turn on a night light or play calming lullabies from your iTunes.
How Do I Add a Camera to My Apple Watch visual functionality?
We’d all love our Apple Watch visual functionality to include a camera to transform it into a true 007 device. But Apple has simply left it out of the designs time and time again. It’s no small feat trying to pack so much tech into such a small space.
But the good news is you can add a camera to your Apple Watch 7 or earlier version. When shopping for Apple Watch accessories, if you want a camera function, look for the Wristcam strap. This hardware essentially adds two cameras, one front, and one rear, respectively, with 2MP and 8MP. The 8MP camera can take 4K images and shoot high-quality video in 1080p. You can even use this device to live stream or use a video-based kind of walkie-talkie.
Lightweight at just 23g, it allows your watch face to slip in nicely. The design is a little on the bulky side but comes with a range of color choices. You can also sync the device with your iPhone to transfer the images taken directly with Bluetooth.
Would you like to see a camera added to the Apple Watch? Let us know in the comments.
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Last Updated on February 18, 2022