The new TicWatch Atlas is the latest addition to Mobvoi's comprehensive range of connected watches. As you know, I'm a big fan of this brand, and have owned several models in the past. This new model, with its robust design and advanced functions, is positioned as a serious competitor to the Apple Watch Ultra and Samsung Galaxy Watch, while bringing its own vision of the outdoor connected watch.
As with the manufacturer's previous models, what's immediately striking is its innovative dual display: a superb 1.43-inch AMOLED screen complemented by an ultra-low-power display that changes color according to your heart rate. A technological feat that enables it to achieve record autonomy of up to 90 hours in normal mode, and – brace yourself – up to 45 days in essential mode! (Enough to make the competition pale in comparison).
Powered by the latest Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 chip and running Wear OS 4, this watch made by Mobvoi makes no compromises on performance. MIL-STD-810H certified and waterproof to 5 ATM, it's built for adventure with its ultra-resistant sapphire crystal and 7000 series stainless steel and aluminum construction.
Marketed at a price that puts it in an ideal position against its premium rivals, the TicWatch Atlas could well be the surprise of the end of 2024 for technology enthusiasts who don't want to sacrifice robustness and autonomy.
Unpacking the TicWatch Atlas
When you receive the TicWatch Atlas, your first impression is of an uncompromising premium product, with sober, elegant packaging.
In the box are the essentials: the watch, its proprietary magnetic charger capable of recharging the 628 mAh battery in less than 2 hours, and the usual documentation. No superfluous fuss, just solid stuff.
Unpacking the watch reveals its imposing presence. At 47 mm in diameter and 12.05 mm thick, it clearly demonstrates its sporting and outdoor ambitions.
The construction skillfully blends stainless steel for the bezel and aircraft-grade aluminum for the case.
The fluorinated silicone strap, particularly pleasant to the touch, inspires confidence for intense sporting activities. A wise choice that offers both comfort and durability! The bracelet's quick-release fastening system is remarkably well thought-out, enabling it to be changed in a matter of seconds (standard 24mm size).
The well-designed charging base holds the watch firmly in place thanks to powerful magnets.
Build quality is beyond reproach, with meticulous attention to detail. The two physical buttons offer excellent tactile feedback, with a precise stroke that inspires confidence. The rotating crown, particularly well calibrated, enables fluid menu navigation. (You can tell that Mobvoi's engineers spent a lot of time fine-tuning these details).
The sapphire crystal protecting the main display inspires confidence for intensive outdoor use. After several days' wear, no micro-scratches are visible, auguring excellent durability over time. The MIL-STD-810H certification is clearly not usurped, and this TicWatch Atlas exudes solidity.
The weight of 64 grams (including strap) may seem frightening on paper, but once on the wrist, the watch is surprisingly discreet. Weight distribution is well thought-out, and the strap contributes greatly to overall comfort. Even after a full day's use, you won't feel any particular discomfort.
Beneath its adventurous exterior, the TicWatch Atlas hides an impressive technical record! At the heart of the beast is the latest Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 chip, accompanied by 2 GB RAM and 32 GB storage. This muscular configuration ensures exemplary fluidity under Wear OS 4, even if we regret that the watch does not come directly with Wear OS 5.
One of the Atlas's major innovations is its dual screen. The 1.43-inch AMOLED main display boasts a definition of 466 x 466 pixels (326 ppi), while the ultra-low-power FSTN secondary display allows essential information to be displayed without putting too much strain on the battery. Maximum brightness of 1000 nits ensures excellent legibility, even in bright sunlight.
In terms of connectivity, the watch features Bluetooth 5.2 and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. Multi-constellation GPS (compatible with GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS and Beidou) ensures ultra-precise positioning, perfect for outdoor activities. The presence of NFC also enables contactless payments via Google Wallet.
The 628 mAh battery is a real tour de force. It provides up to 90 hours of autonomy in smart mode, and – brace yourself – up to 45 days in essential mode. Fast charging is no slouch either: 30 minutes are enough to recover two days' autonomy.
With dimensions of 52.2 x 47.8 x 12.05 mm and a weight of 47.2 grams (excluding strap), this is an imposing but well-proportioned watch. Construction combines stainless steel, 7000 series aluminum and high-strength nylon with fiberglass, all protected by an ultra-resistant sapphire crystal.
For health and sports monitoring, the TicWatch Atlas boasts an impressive collection of sensors: accelerometer, gyroscope, PPG HD heart rate sensor, oximeter (SpO2), skin temperature sensor, barometer and compass. Enough to rival the best outdoor watches on the market!
MIL-STD-810H certification and 5 ATM water resistance mean the watch can be used in extreme conditions, whether for open water swimming or the most demanding outdoor activities.
TicWatch Atlas: Installation and handling
Initial configuration of the TicWatch Atlas is simple and intuitive. First important point: this watch is only compatible with Android smartphones featuring native Google services. iPhone users will unfortunately have to pass. At the same time, Apple users usually swear by their Apple Watch ;-)
To get started, you first need to install the Mobvoi Health app from the Google Play Store. Please note that if you already have the Wear OS app or an older version of Mobvoi, we recommend that you uninstall them before pairing.
The pairing process is then very straightforward: simply switch on the watch, select the language and follow the on-screen instructions. The watch will be automatically detected by your smartphone via Bluetooth. A simple code to verify between the two devices, and you're ready to go.
Once connected, the watch prompts you to log in with your Google account to access various services such as Google Play or Google Wallet. This step is essential to take full advantage of Wear OS 4's functionalities.
Navigation through the interface is particularly well thought-out. Pressing the rotating crown gives access to the main menu grouping all installed applications. The two physical buttons offer excellent tactile feedback, and the crown makes for fluid menu navigation.
Mobvoi's interface is distinguished by its clarity and lack of superfluity. Google applications are perfectly integrated, and the TicHealth application, dedicated to health tracking, is perfectly harmonized with Google Fit.
For advanced users, the watch offers numerous customization options, including over 15,000 dial designs available via the TimeShow app.
TicWatch Atlas: in use
On a day-to-day basis, the TicWatch Atlas proves to be a particularly pleasant companion. The fluidity of the interface, powered by the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 processor, is impeccable, and transitions between the various menus are seamless.
The dual screen proves to be more than just a marketing gimmick. The AMOLED screen offers excellent legibility, even in direct sunlight, thanks to its 1000 nits of brightness. But it's above all the FSTN screen that impresses, with its system of changing colors according to your heart rate – a real asset during workouts. No need to wake up the watch and navigate through the menus, the color of the screen tells you directly where you are.
Activity tracking is particularly comprehensive, with over 110 different sports recognized. The metrics are varied and precise: VO2 Max, recovery time, speed, distance covered… The TicMotion system ensures precise tracking of your performance in real time.
The thermal mapping function is particularly useful for visualizing your most intense activity zones. It provides detailed information on time, distance and calories burned in each zone.
This information can of course be consulted on the watch itself, but the application enables even more comprehensive tracking:
You can track information by the day, week or month:
Sleep tracking is particularly comprehensive:
It includes sleep quality, heart rate, temperature, and even snoring, recorded in audio!
You'll need to launch the tracking function before going to bed.
Other information tracked, such as heart rate, SpO2 level, stress level, etc. also give rise to their own dashboards.
In terms of safety, there's a fall detection function that works perfectly, with an alert system that automatically contacts the emergency services or your predefined contacts in case of need. A particularly useful function for outdoor activities!
Autonomy keeps its promises: in intensive use with GPS active and notifications, the watch easily lasts 3 to 4 days. With more moderate use, it lasts up to ten days, which is remarkable for a Wear OS watch.
For outdoor navigation, the precision of the multi-constellation GPS is excellent. The built-in compass, barometer and altimeter are particularly useful when hiking.
Health monitoring is no exception, with continuous monitoring of heart rate, SpO2, sleep (including snore detection), and even a stress management tool. Data is easily consultable and well presented in the Mobvoi Health app.
Of course, since the watch is Google Play-enabled, you can also install many other applications, such as Spotify for listening to your favorite music:
Or connected home applications, such as Nuki to unlock your door, Hue to control your lighting, Home Assistant to control all your home automation, etc.
Conclusion
The TicWatch Atlas succeeds in offering a robust, high-performance connected watch capable of competing with the best on the market. Priced at less than €250, it stands out from its direct rivals, notably the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Pro.
Its innovative dual-screen design is more than just a marketing ploy: it offers real added value in terms of autonomy and everyday use. Exceptional battery life, up to 45 days in essential mode, is a real tour de force in the world of Wear OS connected watches.
The impeccable build quality, premium materials used and military certifications make this watch particularly suited to outdoor activities. Its comprehensive sports tracking and precise sensors will satisfy even the most demanding athletes.
Of course, not everything is perfect. The absence of WearOS 5, Google Assistant and a design that may seem imposing on some wrists are regrettable. The proprietary magnetic recharging system, though practical, means you always need to have your charger with you.
But this new version will particularly appeal to athletes and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a rugged, long-lasting connected watch. And that's exactly what makes it different from the manufacturer's previous versions. Technophiles will appreciate its performance and fluidity, while adventurers will be won over by its resistance and record autonomy.
All in all, the TicWatch Atlas is an excellent alternative to traditional premium connected watches. It offers an accomplished user experience, innovative functionalities and exceptional autonomy, all in an ultra-resistant case and at a competitive price. A great success for Mobvoi, confirming its ability to innovate in the connected watch market.
Please remain courteous: a hello and a thank you cost nothing! We're here to exchange ideas in a constructive way. Trolls will be deleted.