Apple created a feature to emulate a walkie-talkie when watchOS 5 was released for Apple Watch in June 2018. The feature allows users to communicate with each other using their Apple Watches as if they were using a walkie-talkie. The feature was temporarily disabled in July 2019, due to a security vulnerability, but it was then restored in September 2019 with the release of watchOS 6. Now that the features vulnerability has been fixed, we will discuss in greater detail and endeavour to highlight some key differences in functionality between this software and a traditional Two-Way Radio device.
Related: Top 10 Walkie Talkies 2023
How to use the App
The Walkie-Talkie feature on the Apple Watch allows you to communicate with other Apple Watch users in real-time, just like a traditional walkie-talkie. Here's how to use the Apple Walkie-Talkie function:
1. Make sure that both you and the person you want to communicate with have Apple Watches that support the Walkie-Talkie feature. The Walkie-Talkie feature is available on Apple Watch Series 1 or later models running watch OS 5.3 or later.
2. Open the Walkie-Talkie app on your Apple Watch. It's a yellow icon with two interlocking circles.
3. You'll see a list of contacts who have the Walkie-Talkie feature enabled. Tap on the contact you want to talk to.
4. Press and hold the "Talk" button on the screen while you speak. Your message will be transmitted in real-time to the other person's Apple Watch.
5. When you're finished talking, release the "Talk" button to listen for a response.
6. The other person can respond to your message by pressing and holding the "Talk" button on their Apple Watch.
Features
Availability: If the person you want to communicate with is unavailable, you can send them an audio message instead.
Status: You can set your status to "Available", "Do Not Disturb", or "Unavailable" to let others know if you're able to receive Walkie-Talkie messages.
Mute: You can mute specific contacts or turn off the Walkie-Talkie feature entirely if you don't want to receive any messages.
Accessibility: The Walkie-Talkie feature also supports voiceover, so you can use it even if you have visual impairments.
Notifications: When you receive a Walkie-Talkie message, your Apple Watch will vibrate and play a sound. You can also choose to receive notifications for Walkie-Talkie messages on your iPhone.
Restrictions: The Walkie-Talkie feature is subject to parental controls and Screen Time restrictions, so you can limit its use for children or other users.
Privacy: Apple has designed the Walkie-Talkie feature with privacy in mind. Messages are transmitted over a secure connection and are encrypted, so they can't be intercepted or listened to by anyone else.
Therefore, the Walkie-Talkie feature on the Apple Watch is a useful tool for quick and easy communication with other Apple Watch users. It's great for situations where you need to talk to someone quickly, but don't want to make a phone call or send a text message.
However, the Walkie-Talkie app requires an active internet connection, which means that it may not work in areas with poor cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. Additionally, the app may not be as reliable as a traditional walkie-talkie, as it can be affected by interference from other wireless devices or network congestion.
Walkie Talkies
Walkie talkies were the first type of portable Two-Way Radio Communication device that allow users to connect wirelessly over short distances. The three main reasons for using walkie talkies are:
Walkie talkies allow users to communicate with each other while on the move. This is particularly useful in situations where people need to stay connected while traveling, such as when hiking, camping, or exploring outdoor areas. Walkie talkies are also a quick and easy way to communicate with others, without the need for a cell phone or other communication device. They are also often used in situations where it may be difficult or impossible to use other communication methods, such as in remote areas or during power outages. Finally, Walkie talkies are an effective way for groups of people to stay connected and coordinate their activities. They are often used in professions such as security, construction, and event management, where it is important for team members to communicate with each other quickly and efficiently.
Comparison
There are several differences between the Walkie-Talkie app on the Apple Watch and actual walkie-talkies:
Communication Range: Walkie-talkies use radio waves to communicate, which allows for long-range communication without the need for an internet connection. In contrast, the Walkie-Talkie app on the Apple Watch relies on a wireless network, which means its range is limited by the strength and coverage of the network.
Battery Life: Walkie-talkies typically have longer battery life than the Apple Watch, which may need to be charged frequently if you use the Walkie-Talkie app for extended periods.
Durability: Walkie-talkies are usually designed to withstand harsh conditions and are built to be rugged and durable, while the Apple Watch is a consumer electronic device that’s primary functions are not designed with durability in mind.
Interference: Walkie-talkies can be affected by interference from other wireless devices or radio signals, while the Walkie-Talkie app on the Apple Watch may be affected by network congestion or poor Wi-Fi or cellular coverage.
Ease of Use: The Walkie-Talkie app on the Apple Watch is relatively easy to use, with a simple interface and intuitive controls. Actual walkie-talkies may require more technical knowledge and experience to operate effectively.
Overall, the Walkie-Talkie app on the Apple Watch is a convenient and useful tool for short-range communication, but it may not be as reliable or effective as actual walkie-talkies in certain situations, such as when communicating over long distances or in harsh conditions. Here at liGo, we have tested the best options on the market for two-way radios and have compiled an expert list of the Top 10 Two-Way radios available to buy from our website right now!