Let’s rewind to our childhood years. Can you remember watching at least one action movie where the main protagonist suavely moves his arm closer to his face, presses a button on his wristwatch and speaks to someone? We loved it. And we always wondered when such technology would become available.

Well, it is available now – say hello to the smartwatch generation.

Let’s take a closer look. What’s so smart about smartwatches? The functionalities of smartwatches start from performing basic tasks such as calculations, translations and playing games, to running mobile apps or even a mobile operating system.

Smartwatches also function as portable media players, play audio and video files, and have features such as a camera, accelerometer, thermometer, altimeter, barometer, compass, chronograph, phone, touch screen, GPS navigation, map and graphical display, speaker, scheduler, watch and SD cards that are recognised as a mass storage device by a computer. Smartwatches can also communicate with a wireless headset, heads-up display, insulin pump, microphone and modem.

That was quite a long list to digest wasn’t it? Take a deep breath because there is more. Some smartwatches have a sport watch functionality and have a GPS for training, diving and other sports. You can also get training programmes, lap times, speed display, route tracking, dive computer, heart rate monitor compatibility, cadence sensor compatibility, and compatibility with sport transitions.

Smart? Definitely. Stylish? Well, not really. However, smartwatches weren’t designed to go with your evening dress code – unless, of course, you ditch the fashion rules and bring forth the tech rebel in you. The audience that appreciates these gadgets are people who love technology, who search for practicality, people who want to make their fitness regime as awesome as possible. That said, smartwatches have come a long way and are gaining in style credentials, so it’s only a matter of time before they will look and feel good.

The smartwatch is still evolving. We’re still waiting for Apple’s iWatch and Samsung is working on the new Galaxy Gear which, from what we can tell thanks to the concept designs on the web, will be more flexible, literally, as its screen is meant to twist around your wrist. In the meantime the smartwatches that are already in existence will keep improving. So all we need to do now is sit and wait, for the best is yet to come.

Pebble

This smartwatch is currently on my wish list. It syncs with your phone (be it iPhone or Android) so that you can use it when you can’t take out your phone, such as during a meeting. It offers music control, fitness functionalities, is water-resistant and can last for up to seven days without the need to charge. It also comes in different colour options so you can choose your favourite.

i’m Watch

Just like the Pebble smartwatch, i’m Watch communicates with your smartphone and allows you to see incoming calls, text messages, e-mails and apps when you can’t use your phone. It also offers fitness functionalities, comes in different colours and is promoted for its Italian design.

Sony Smartwatch 2.

Sony Smartwatch 2

Sadly, this smartwatch is limited to Android phones. In terms of design, this smartwatch doesn’t look bad at all, but in terms of functionality it only offers the basic features its competitors already offer. It is however the cheapest phone out of the chosen lot, so if you’re on a tight budget this might be the one for you.

Samsung Galaxy Gear

This is only good for Samsung Android users. In terms of design it is quite attractive, comfortable and makes it easy to see incoming calls. It also allows you to control media, includes a pedometer, and can take quick snaps. However, on the downside it has been criticised for its lack of e-mail and social network support, limited compatibility with other devices, the external charging case, and hit-and-miss voice control. It’s also expensive, especially when you consider the limited number of functions it can perform.