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Connected: How I use the Apple Watch in my law practice
I’m not going to sugarcoat this: I love Apple products. I mark my calendar for Apple keynotes product announcements, and operating system release dates. I’m writing this post on an iPhone. Late last year, I took a big step in my relationship with Apple – I got an Apple Watch Series 2.
The original Apple Watch was released in April 2015, and I’ll admit, even as an Apple fan, I was skeptical. Overall, it appeared as though it just wasn’t ready for primetime. I convinced myself to wait and see what the next generation would bring.
When Apple announced the Series 2 and the third iteration of its operating system, watchOS 3, my primary concerns about the product were all addressed, as it featured improved battery life, better water resistance and a redesigned operating system.
Rather than write a review when I first got it, I waited for a few months to see how the Watch fit into my routine. Here are some thoughts, tips and tricks about how I use my Apple Watch during the workday.
Custom Watch Faces
Inspired by a tip from fellow attorney/Mac nerd David Sparks, I created custom watch faces for work and home. You can quickly switch between custom watch faces by swiping the screen.
On my work watch face, I prominently display my calendar, which tells me where I should be and when. I also have the date, time, temperature outside (using Dark Sky’s “Feels Like” temperature feature), fitness progress and finally the number of outstanding items on my to-do list.
When I’m outside of work, my watch face display is more focused on fitness tracking features. It prominently features the activity rings and progress indicators, and also shows the date, a quick way to access the workout feature, and my calendar.
Siri and Reminders
I use Siri on the Watch most often to dictate reminders. For example, I might say “Hey Siri, remind me to follow up with Attorney John Smith about contract negotiation next Monday at 8:30 am” after sending out a set of revised documents to opposing counsel. That will automatically create a reminder that will notify me the following Monday at the specified time. Reminders can also be based on a specific date, and also based on leaving or arriving at a particular location.
Notifications and Do Not Disturb
It seems like every app on your phone is competing for your attention these days. To combat that problem, I turn off most notifications for apps so that I check them on my own terms. I restrict notifications even more on the Watch, and generally am only notified with a tap on the wrist for calendar appointments, reminders, calls and text messages.
I also use the “Do Not Disturb” feature frequently throughout the day. If I go into a meeting or am focusing on a project, I turn on Do Not Disturb to avoid distractions.
Fitness
Outside of the office, I love the fitness tracking capabilities of the Apple Watch. In the office, though, I appreciate the feature that reminds you to stand up and move around at least once per hour. It’s a convenient way to remind you to take breaks throughout the day and I often use it as a dual purpose reminder to go drink a glass of water.
Overall Impressions
I’m a fan of the Watch overall and over the past several months, I think I’ve identified the role that the Apple Watch plays in my day. It’s a versatile tool that you can customize to fit your lifestyle, both at home and at work.
Have any other questions about my experience with the Apple Watch? Feel free to contact me using our handy contact form or mention me on Twitter with your questions.