The original Watch Fit SE was launched back in 2020, and at that time, it offered some of the most advanced health tracking features available. It was well-received in the market. This 2023 Special edition is an update to the health tracking system, bringing all the system’s updates up to date.
As we take a closer look at the Watch Fit SE, we realize that its main difference lies in its colours and software version. In this review, we’ll provide a simple overview of the Watch Fit SE, dive into the software changes, and finally, determine whether the Watch Fit SE is a good purchase.
Overview
In terms of hardware, the Watch Fit SE and the original Watch Fit are identical. They share the same screen, form factors, materials, and overall feel. This is great news as the Watch Fit boasts a timeless design that combines aesthetics and comfort.
The design follows the modern Huawei watch and band look, which gives them a similar appearance. This isn’t a bad thing since the large curved screen and oval-shaped body are durable and visually pleasing. The large screen ensures that all information is clear to the wearer, and the AMOLED display makes colors vibrant.
It’s important to note that the screen lacks tempered glass protection, so users should handle it with care. However, the watch is certified 5 ATM, which means it can withstand water up to 50 meters deep and extreme temperature and humidity for short periods.
One of the highlights of the Watch Fit series is its skin-friendly materials. Both the watch case and strap are made from silicone and polymer, which are commonly used in everyday products like contact lenses and clothing. These materials ensure high levels of comfort when wearing the watch. The matte surface finishing on the straps provides extra grip, and the absence of sharp edges ensures a comfortable fit.
One of the main selling points of the original Watch Fit was the ability to use user-loaded images as backgrounds, showcasing Huawei’s pride in the display. The Watch Fit SE continues to feature the same impressive hardware with its beautiful 1.64 HD AMOLED display.
Watch Fit SE’ Technologies
Now, let’s focus on the Huawei Watch Fit SE’s software updates, which are the central aspect of this review. Two major updates stand out: Huawei TruSeen from version 3.0 to 5.0 and TruSleep from 2.0 to 3.0. These updates bring more functions, improved accuracy, centralized reporting, and extended monitoring capabilities.
Huawei TruSeen
Huawei TruSeen is Huawei’s in-house heart rate monitoring software. It’s designed to monitor heart rate using photosensors. It started as a basic static heart rate monitor and has evolved into a dynamic heart rate monitor, capable of providing reports on stress levels, sleep stages, and even, in some countries, blood sugar levels.
To understand the improvements in the Huawei Watch Fit SE software, let’s compare the different versions of TruSeen:
Version | Major Features |
1.0 | Monitors static heart rate. |
2.0 | Introduces dynamic heart rate monitoring for workout modes. Introduces scientific sleep (TruSleep 1.0) and stress monitoring. |
3.0 | Introduces 24-hour continuous heart rate monitoring and non-visible light heart rate measurement during sleep. |
3.5 | Extends heart rate monitoring to support more workout scenarios such as swimming, elliptical machine, and rowing machine. Introduces SpO2 detection & hypoxia reminder. |
4.0 | Equips with medical-grade electrocardiogram detection capabilities. Introduces continuous SpO2 monitoring with lower power consumption. Optimizes heart rate monitoring accuracy. Optimizes dynamic heart rate anti-interference ability. |
5.0 | Further improves heart rate monitoring accuracy and optimizes motion noise data intake. |
From this roadmap, it’s clear what improvements have been made for the SE version. To summarize, the improvements focus on heart rate monitoring and SpO2 monitoring. So, we’ll assess each segment for improvements.
Heart rate monitoring
In the workout menu, the Watch Fit SE lists 13 sport tracking options, with additional sports available in the custom workout menu. There are so many options that we won’t attempt to count them all, but some of the more unique ones include Belly Dance, Esport?, and Kite Flying.
SpO2 Detection
SpO2 detection and monitoring are also available. The menu displays both the current blood oxygen levels and previous records, allowing for continuous monitoring. Users can also enable Low SpO2, also known as hypoxia alert, through the Huawei Health app on their phone.
TruSleep
In the TruSleep department, we see a setup similar to the Huawei Watch 4 Pro’s. The report indicates four stages of sleep with duration and wake times. Here’s a comparison of the different TruSleep versions:
TruSleep | Features |
1.0 | Records fallen asleep time and identified sleep stages and wake times. |
2.0 | Offers over 200 sleep improvement suggestions such as meditation, deep sleep practices, white noise, and more. |
3.0 | Updates the algorithm to increase sleep detection accuracy up to 10%. |
While we tested the availability and functionality of TruSleep, we couldn’t assess whether the algorithm had improved. However, sleep improvement suggestions are available, but not on the Watch Fit itself; they appear on a companion device.
Is it accurate?
numerous studies by universities and academics have utilized Huawei TruSleep technology in their research
One common question about Huawei TruSleep is its accuracy. Huawei TruSleep is based on Dr. Thomas Penzel and the team of researchers associated with Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin’s CPC technology, which were later studies by team of researcher in Center for Dynamical Biomarkers, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center / Harvard Medical School. This technology has received FDA and CFDA certification and is widely used in clinical settings.
To put it simply, Cardiopulmonary Coupling monitors two things when a person sleeps: their heart rate and their breathing (inhaling and exhaling air). Cardiopulmonary Coupling is like watching a dance between the heart and breathing during sleep. It helps doctors understand the quality of sleep.
Don’t just take our word for it; numerous studies by universities and academics have utilized Huawei TruSleep technology in their research. Both Western and Eastern organizations using Huawei TruSleep provide convincing evidence of its accuracy in tracking sleep.
Can the Watch Fit SE hardware keep up?
With so many software improvements, it’s essential to consider whether the hardware can keep up. While navigating the menu, the watch is noticeably choppier on that rare occasion. While this is noticeable, it doesn’t significantly impact the user experience, and users can still use the Watch Fit SE effectively.
Conclusion Watch Fit SE
For those seeking a sleep tracker or improved health tracking device, we highly recommend checking out the Huawei Watch Fit SE.
In conclusion, Huawei has taken an already successful design and brought its software up to date. The Watch Fit SE enhances functionality, health tracking, and accuracy with TruSeen 5.0 and TruSleep 3.0. Users can now get a simple overview of their health without the need to visit a doctor or a sleep specialist.
Priced at RM329, it costs RM70 more than the original Watch Fit, but the software updates justify the premium. For those seeking a sleep tracker or improved health tracking device, we highly recommend checking out the Huawei Watch Fit SE. While we question whether the updates can be done over-the-air, for new users, this device is an excellent buy.
With these software updates and improved functionality, the Watch Fit SE elevates the Watch Fit to a new level. However, the slight sluggishness in navigation does affect the user experience, although not significantly. With that, we award the Huawei Watch SE with the Silver Award.