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One reason the Series 3 is less expensive than the other models is it doesn’t offer a cellular connection, so you need to have your iPhone nearby or connect your watch to Wi-Fi and set up wireless calling to contact 911. Still, the Series 3 will contact 911 when you push the SOS button, and this is the main function of a medical alert system. It includes all of the features above but not much else. The Series 3 is the least expensive Apple Watch option. 42 mm case with a band to fit 140–210 mm wrists.38 mm case with a band to fit 130–200 mm wrists.Here’s a look at each model, comparing costs and features to help you make a decision about which one best fits your needs and budget. With GPS (technology that uses satellites to pinpoint your location) and an emergency button, all Apple watches can be used as a medical alert device, but certain models offer extra features in addition to the ones listed above. Health monitoring (including a step tracker and heart rate monitor).Two-way communication to allow you to speak directly into your watch.Emergency SOS button to contact 911 in an emergency.All of the models offer the following features: Keep reading for our Apple Watch medical alert review.Īpple currently sells three models of smartwatches online and in stores. It may be a good choice for people interested in a watch with medical alert features, but it does have its drawbacks. Our Reviews Team decided to research the Apple Watch as an option for medical alerts because of the extra features it offers for health monitoring, fall detection, and emergency calling. Most medical alert systems connect to monitoring centers, where operators alert 911 if you need help. Instead, it calls the nearest 911 dispatcher when you push the Emergency SOS button. This is because the Apple Watch isn’t connected to a 24/7 monitoring center. The Apple watch costs more than some other medical alert devices, but you don’t have to pay the monthly monitoring fee that’s required with most monitored medical alert systems. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form.Can the Apple Watch be used as a medical alert device? Although it doesn’t include all the same features as other medical alert watches, the Apple Watch may be a good alternative for active older adults, especially those who live alone, are comfortable using technology, and already have an iPhone. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services.
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ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites.
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