Smartwatch being banned in some universities ahead of Apple Watch release

R Padla

We've been saying this could be the year of smartwatches what with the numerous models from different manufacturers being introduced left and right since last year. Some of the more popular ones are those from Samsung, LG, and Motorola. The Pebble watch was one of the pioneers but was quickly rivalled by the bigger tech companies. As for Apple, Cupertino has yet to enter the market with the Apple watch. It was unveiled last year but the actual hardware will only be ready this year. People are already anticipating that it will be popular, of course, among the iPhone, iPad, and even Mac owners but maybe not enough to take over Android Wear-powered wearables.

As anticipation for the arrival of the Apple Watch, some universities are already banning the use of wearables in schools. Main reason is that smartwatches and any wrist-worn gadgets can easily be used for cheating. This can be true because it is so easy and convenient to use. A smartwatch can receive notifications and messages. It is linked to a smartphone over Bluetooth or Internet which means any type of message can be sent to the user. Right now, it can be hard for teachers to determine if a student is simply looking at his wrist to check the time or is already checking the small screen for possible answers or cheats.

Some schools in Britain like the London's City University and University of London are imposing bans on such devices. All watches must be removed during exams. It's gonna be such a hassle for those who own traditional watches and simple just want to look at the time. Oh well right now, you really can't tell if a watch is already a mini-computer or is just a simple watch.

Personally, I think the policy is okay since use of smartphones is also not allowed in classrooms and during examinations. It only makes sense that smartwatches are banned during those special times only, otherwise it's okay to use them because they can be very useful. I'm pretty sure that someday, even reading glasses will be checked or banned because you know, Google Glass technology has started.

VIA: SlashGear

Story Timeline

• BBM for Android Wear smartwatches unveiled at CES 2015
• HTC tipped to bring improved camera phone and smartwatch out in March
• SWApp Launcher Wear allows you to launch apps on your smartwatch

source: androidcommunity