Faizel Patel, Radio Islam News – 22-09-2017

Apple has conceded its latest smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 3 unveiled a week ago – has problems with its most important feature: the ability to make phone calls and access data without an iPhone nearby.

Several tech reviewers have indicated they could not recommend the device because of a Wi-Fi glitch that causes cellular connectivity problems.

The Series 3 starts at $399 (R5,327) and was launched alongside new the iPhone 8, 8 Plus and iPhone X. Unlike previous versions of the watch, it has cellular network connectivity built in.

Apple says the watch can experience LTE connectivity problems when it connects to open Wi-Fi networks such as at a hotel or a coffee shop.

Apple spokeswoman Amy Bessette told Reuters the company is “investigating a fix for a future software release.”

Many reviewers such as the New York Times praised the new features and gave generally positive assessments.

But other prominent publications, including the Wall Street Journal and The Verge’s Lauren Goode recommended against purchasing the new model because the LTE cellular data connectivity did not work as expected.

“Considering that my Apple Watch Series 3 with LTE (both first and second review units) didn’t function like it was supposed to, I can’t recommend buying it — and paying the monthly cell fee — based on promises.”

Apart from connection issues, some reviewers were disappointed with the drain on the watch’s battery while making calls. Apple had touted up to 18 hours of battery life but said the watch would get only one hour on a cellular phone call.

Apple also experienced hiccups with iOS 11, the new operating system the firm released Tuesday.

For business users, iOS 11’s Mail application had problems sending email for Microsoft Exchange and Outlook email accounts.

– Reuters 

Twitter: @FaizelPatel143