Smartwatches may still not be a commonly used device compared to the number of people who have compatible smartphones to use alongside them, but the market is growing and more and more choice is hitting the market. This includes smartwatches which support LTE network connectivity so users don’t need to have it tethered to their smartphone to keep data flowing into it, as it can work independently. AT&T is trying to make this sort of transition a little easier with their recently announced NumberSync functionality that they unveiled last month, which lets users connect a single number to multiple devices so they are never without the ability to call and text and stay connected. Smartwatches sold through AT&T will also support NumberSync and today AT&t has announced which ones they plan to make compatible.
To kick things off AT&T will be supporting only two different smartwatches with NumberSync, which includes both the newly announced Samsung Gear S2 and the LG Watch Urbane LTE (2nd Gen) devices. Currently, neither smartwatch is available through AT&T but it won’t be long before subscribers can purchase them, as AT&T states that customers can pick them up from the website and at local retail stores beginning November 6th, which is this Friday. While the watches will be available just before the weekend, NumberSync won’t be up and running just yet. Both smartwatches will however, be ready for it when AT&T enables the service later on.
For some consumers, being able to call and text from their smartwatches using the already familiar number may be just the thing to get them past the hangup of actually diving into wearables territory. NumberSynuc should make it much simpler as subscribers can opt to leave their smartphones at home should they go out shopping or out on a run for example, but still be able to keep in touch with their friends and family through voice or through messages if they need to, using a number that those people already know. According to AT&T, NumberSync won’t cost customers anything extra and will be a part of their existing plans, and it’s scheduled to be available sometime early next year.