Agreed. They say this is for explorers and adventure, but it seems like I’d be out of charge after the first segment of a backpacking trip. Need a map of an area for the return or the next day? Good luck.
It's not a huge deal. When I go on multi-day backpacking trips, I carry battery packs and/or solar chargers with me anyway, because I need to be able to charge my phone.
I know they came out with an LTE-enabled Forerunner 945 late in its cycle. I don’t know if they’ll add similar functionality to other models, but that’s one watch with that feature.
Personally that device never interested me because:
1) if I can rely on cell phone signal, I’m likely doing a quick and simple hike where I don’t have to worry about draining my cell phone battery in the first place, or
2) if I can’t rely on cell phone signal (much more likely), which is especially likely in the US wilderness, then if I’m doing something precarious in a remote setting I’ll have to bring a beacon and satellite communicator anyway. Like an InReach Mini.
The fact that Garmin is releasing even higher end watches without cell phone connectivity likely indicates there’s not a lot of people buying nearly $1k fitness watches finding that functionality compelling.
Obviously people doing this are likely too narrow a segment for Apple. Like, why would Apple care that I’m not buying their watch? I was just engaged by their headline marketing for this watch until I saw the specs.
If I'm doing some kind of outdoor activity, then I'm likely already carrying batteries for other things. I don't think it's the huge barrier most people here think it is. I guess if you're into ultra-light then yeah maybe it isn't the target market for you - but then why would you be carrying a huge watch in the first place rather than something light?
I mean, I tend to agree. FWIW, most people who do UL Backpacking use a smartphone for maps and a UL battery. I've taken my Apple Watch backpacking with me before, and keeping it charged wasn't a thing. Just one extra (short) cable to bring, I'd put it on the battery during dinner and camp setup.
The thing is though, I've only found it really useful if I'm doing stiff ascents and am not comfortable with my training. Mostly just to keep an eye on my heartrate, if my training/preparations are adequate for my trip, I don't use it at all.
Garmin Fenix cannot replace a phone, but has better battery life. The Apple Watch Ultra can do most of the things you'd need your iPhone for out on a trip.
If you are really UL, you can ditch the phone and just use the Ultra. Apple Watch + small battery is lighter than a Fenix + iPhone + battery.