Apple Watch a year later: What owners really think - CNET

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For many Apple Watch owners, the gadget wrapped around their wrist is much more than just a watch.

Around 80 percent of Apple Watch owners said they use the device for fitness tracking and notifications, according to survey results released Friday by advertising technology company Fluent. Listening to music is popular among 77 percent. Exchanging emails and instant messages is on the list of 66 percent. Using the watch to purchase items via Apple Pay is also a favorite activity among 61 percent of those polled.

The Apple Watch has become the dominant player in the growing market for smartwatches. The company faces competition from other manufacturers, and many people don't yet don't see smartwatches as must-have items. But Apple's first wearable has generated greater interest in the category.

Though the Apple Watch may be seen as a "fashion" item, only 11 percent of watch owners said they bought the watch for fashion reasons. Convenience was listed as the reason for owning the watch by 46 percent of those polled, while the device's features were deemed an important factor by 31 percent.