In the last two weeks, we have decided to put aside our trusted reference smartwatches to continuously wear the new vivo Watch GT 2, the long-awaited return of the brand to the world of smart watches.
The result? A surprise that pushed us to look beyond the simple technical data sheet, analyzing how this device integrates into the chaotic flow of contemporary daily life.
Design and construction
The first sensation after taking out the Watch GT 2 alive was extreme lightness. Despite the large diagonal of the display, the device does not “weigh” on the wrist, neither visually nor physically.
The variant Obsidian Black that we tested has a glossy black aluminum finish that immediately conveys a feeling of craftsmanship, derived from precision polishing processes that distinguish the product from the mass of plastic alternatives that populate the market.
What we appreciated most is the balance of the shapes. THEThe square design is very similar to the Apple Watch optimizes space for information without being intrusive under a shirt cuff.
The 1.8mm edges, combined with the 2.5D curved glass, create an almost “borderless” visual effect that makes interacting with the interface rewarding. During our often hectic days, the strap proved to be comfortable even after hours of prolonged use, not irritating the skin and always maintaining the right position for the biometric sensors.
The fastening of the strap is rather particular, comfortable but not very firm. For example, during a soccer match he came untied and fell onto the field.
Display
On the Watch GT 2 we find a panel 2.07 inch AMOLED which left us super satisfied. During our outdoor tests, in direct light conditions, we struggled to find situations where readability was lacking. THE 2400 nits of peak brightness are not just a number from a technical sheet, but are the guarantee of being able to consult running data or an urgent notification without having to look for the shadow.
We are used to scrolling menus and notifications with a fluidity that is often lacking in competing products, and here vivo has done so Excellent software optimization work. The function Always-On Display it’s not just an aesthetic addition, but a silent companion that allowed us to check the time or heartbeat with a quick glance, without having to activate the screen with wrist gestures which, in a meeting, can be inelegant.
Sports modes
Let’s come to the most interesting part of our test. We took the Watch GT 2 out on the field for several training sessions. What amazed us is not just the heart rate monitoring, but the depth of the AI analysis.
Beyond that, we explored the 100+ modes sports available. Whether it’s a run in the park or a swim in the pool (thanks to the 5 ATM certification, we tested the device in water without any fear), the system has always proven responsive. The built-in GPS is quick to lock on to, and the voice feedback is a nice touch that allowed us to maintain focus on the workout without having to constantly look at the dial.
Autonomy
Let’s face it, daily charging is the Achilles’ heel of most smartwatches. With the vivo Watch GT 2, this concern is gone. During our testing, we got to coverage two weeks with typical usage, including notifications, sports tracking and vital sign tracking.
The promise of 25 days of battery life in Bluetooth mode is realistic if you manage the settings consciously. Even pushing hard, with the Always-On Display activated and intensive use, we never dropped below two weeks. For us who travel often for work, being able to leave for a long week without having to carrying the charging cable with us is a technological liberation which alone justifies the purchase.
Health monitoring
vivo’s tracking ecosystem doesn’t just count steps. We found the AI-based analytics system to be extremely comprehensive. Continuous monitoring of heart rate, oxygen saturation (), stress and sleep quality it allowed us to have an overview of our state of form.
One aspect that we found particularly useful is the intelligent alert for changes in heart rate: in moments of high stress, the device suggested, almost kindly, that we take a moment to rest. It is worth reiterating, as vivo rightly points out, that these data they do not replace a medical diagnosisca, but as tools lifestyle they are among the most reliable and consistent we have had the opportunity to test this year.
Integration with the app Health Origin it is the junction point of the entire system. The interface is clean, full of readable graphs that show trends over time, allowing us to observe how our nightly or exercise habits have affected our overall well-being.
Synchronization between watch and app is immediate, a sign of software, BlueOSwell finished.
Smart functions
We used the Watch GT 2 to manage our daily work life. Notification syncing is flawless: receiving a WhatsApp message and being able to reply with a quick pre-set response (there is no possibility of replying with the keypad) has saved us on more than one occasion, avoiding having to take the smartphone out of our pocket during a meeting. Of course it is also possible answer calls directly from the watch with good quality.
The real “gem” is the integration of Gemini AI Assistant. Being able to ask questions in natural language or ask for a quick translation right from your wrist is a feature that, once you try it, becomes difficult to abandon.
Also, the chip NFC for access badges, it has proven to be a practical addition for those who work in offices with card-based security systems: registering your badge on the watch and opening doors with your wrist is one of those little conveniences that change your routine. Currently though payments via the smartwatch are not compatible, Even for iOS users, the experience remains very satisfying, with full compatibility for remote music and camera control.
Prices and conclusions
After two intense weeks, we have to admit that the vivo Watch GT 2 has convinced us. TO €149it is difficult to find a device that manages to combine so well a premium style, a high level technical equipment and – above all – an operational longevity that does not abandon you after 24 hours.
It is not a device designed for those looking for a total extension of the smartphone with thousands of installable apps, but it is a solid, precise and beautiful companion to look at for those who want to monitor their health and sports performance without compromising on visual quality.
Its nature “hybrid” between a professional sportwatch and a classy smartwatch makes it, in our opinion, an excellent option available today on the Italian market. You can purchase it directly on the official website or via Amazon.
