Apple Watch Series 2 Gets Great Reviews, But Can You Find One In Stores?

The Apple Watch Series 2 might have disappointed some when Apple announced it wouldn’t include cellular connectivity. However, it has also garnered some great reviews. The Daily Express claims that with the Watch Series 2, it is finally time to buy a smartwatch.

“The Apple Watch 2 is finally here bringing a host of new features and improvements to the world’s most popular smartwatch and this is why you should finally consider buying one,” says critic David Snelling, who adds that the water-resistant design and GPS make it ideal for fitness fans.

Snelling also likes the improved processor, which makes things go significantly faster on the Watch 2 than the original Apple Watch. He didn’t like the fact that there is still no choice for an always-on display and the fact that the battery life is still dismal.

Apple Insider really likes the new Apple Watch as well, even if they feel that it’s the new operating system watchOS 3 that truly steals the show.

“Though it looks largely identical to its predecessor, the new Apple Watch Series 2 has a number of noteworthy hardware improvements. For anyone who has used the Apple Watch before, the most noticeable change will be the new dual-core S2 processor. As expected, everything is simply faster, from launching apps to using Siri to just navigating around.”

The article adds that beyond the S2 Chip, the new Apple Watch also has a new GPS radio, allowing you to get accurate tracking while leaving your iPhone at home when running or biking. However, the review notes that that watchOS 3 is the true star of the show and really improves the usability of the Watch. The commenters after the article are very enthusiastic.

“Since buying my 42mm Space Gray Sport watch there hasn’t been a day that I haven’t worn it (totally replacing my Oris mechanical watch),” says Adyb.

“That was an excellent review. Thank you! I am quite happy with OS3 on my first generation watch.
I am glad that Apple did not reserve it for the second generation to force us to upgrade. Many other companies would have done just that,” says Teejay2012.

CNET gives the new Apple Watch four stars.

“Smartwatches still aren’t something you need in your life. Neither are fitness trackers. That being said, I’ve found some use for them in my life. The Apple Watch has finally become something that’s better.”

CNET adds that the new Apple Watch is faster, has a much better watchOS, a great GPS, a brighter display, and is waterproof up to 50 meters in salt or fresh water. However, CNET adds that the dismal battery life is still dismal, and that GPS activity eats a huge chunk of battery life.

If all the great reviews interest you, trying to track down an Apple Watch Series 2 is about as easy as finding an iPhone 7 Plus — it’s possible, but very difficult. Posters on the official Apple forums are pretty angry.

“I’ve been checking constantly ever since I decided not to pre-order on release day and have regretted it since as delivery time was increasing and increasing,” says Paul Conaway.

“Same story in NYC! When I try to select a store for pickup, I get the message ‘not available for pick up.’ It ****** me off even more to see them being sold on e-bay for $500+. One guy had six to sell! It feels a bit like ticket scalpers who seem to get most of the tickets rather than the everyday person,” says John.Bat.

Trying to buy an Apple Watch Series 2 for store pickup on Sunday afternoon at Apple’s site is nearly impossible. If you call Apple, they will tell you that you need to order online. However, like the iPhone 7 Plus, a limited amount of stock does arrive at certain Apple Store retail locations throughout the week. If you want the Apple Watch Series 2, you better prepare to patiently search Apple’s site all day and get ready to order it right after you find it.

[Featured Image by Sean Gallup/Getty Images]