Everything you gotta know about Apple Watch software
watchOS is the software that runs on yourApple Watch.
It was first released for the original Apple Watch in 2015 and has since gone through many changes.
Here’s a look at all the differences between these versions over the years.
Apple
watchOS 10
Apple, Inc
Release date: September 18, 2023
watchOS 10focuses on widgets.
This new version of the UI aims to make navigation easier.
“Smart Stacks” will keep apps organized and available.
Apple, Inc
Major updates to the Health app also aim to provide more information.
The updated Compass works with hiking workouts to let you drop pins and navigate more easily.
Apple Watch tracks different fitness “zones” to help optimize biking workouts.
Apple, Inc
You just need to place your gadget close to someone else’s to transfer the data.
watchOS 9
Release date: September 12, 2022
watchOS 9 was all about refinement.
What’s that mean?
It means the Health app added: Medication Reminders, Sleep Stages, and AFib History.
Watch faces were updated with new designs and better bokeh to make your portraits seem sharper.
Few new apps were added, but the current apps were enhanced with more features many owners called for.
WatchOS 8 also includes an update to its fall detection algorithms and a makeover of its wellness app.
Previously called Breathe, the new Mindfulness app includes a new session pop in and guided meditations.
This information is available in the Health app on the iPhone.
Apple, Inc.
Family Setup lets people who don’t have an iPhone use an Apple Watch.
They also get their own phone number so that it’s possible for you to keep in touch.
It also includes parental controls and activities designed with kids in mind.
Lifewire
Finally, Apple Cash Family lets you send money to your children (or other family members).
The OS update also came with new, customizable watch faces and face sharing functionality.
Users can share watch faces with others right from their wrist.
William Hook / CC By 2.0 / Flickr
TheSleep app charts your sleep patterns, and offer Wind Down and Wake Up features.
Your watch automatically goes into Do Not Disturb when you retire for the day.
Your watch can also detect and time handwashing so you get the full, recommended 20 seconds.
Maurizio Pesce / CC By 2.0 / Flickr
It also can send you an alert to wash your hands when you get home.
Plus, you could finally add Animoji and Memoji stickers to your messages right from your wrist.
New activity reminders made their debut in watchOS4, too, with heart rate alerts also launching alongside.
Charanjit Chana / CC By 2.0 / Flickr
Control Center made its Apple Watch debut, too, activated with a swipe up on the screen.
Apple also made it easier for app developers to add complications for their third-party apps.
You could also now write messages, one letter at a time, with the Scribble feature.
Open Grid Scheduler / Grid Engine
