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Apple has a tradition of releasing a major software update every year for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, along with smaller updates throughout the year.
The next major update for Apple Watch this year is watchOS 8. Let's explore the most notable new features on watchOS 8 in the following article!
When will it be updated to WatchOS 8? Which devices are compatible?
At the WWDC 2021 event held on 08/06/2021, Apple introduced the Beta version of watchOS 8 (trial version for developers to try out).
After 3 months of testing on September 20th, watchOS 8 was officially released along with iOS 15, iPadOS 15, and new macOS. watchOS 8 by Apple has officially been launched with some minor yet practical changes for Apple smartwatch users.
WatchOS 8 can only be installed on Apple Watch series 3 and above, using iPhone 6S and above with iOS 14 or later installed. watchOS 8 will support the following devices:
- Apple Watch Series 3
- Apple Watch Series 4
- Apple Watch Series 5
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch SE
New Features of watchOS 8
Portrait Watch Face and New Photos App
Apple has redesigned the Photos app in watchOS 8. Now, viewing and navigating photo collections is easier. Moreover, Memories and Featured Photos will sync with Apple Watch from the iOS app.
WatchOS 8 also features a new Portrait watch face. Apple states that portrait photos are widely chosen by users, so now they're creating a portrait-style watch face, focusing on the subject by blurring the background.
Upgrade Messaging, Contacts App
The Messages app is receiving a major upgrade this year. Although Apple isn't adding a keyboard to the Messages app on watchOS 8, they're adding features that make messaging much more fun. Now, you can use scribble, emojis, and spell check features to compose messages, as well as use the Digital Crown to control the editing cursor.
Apple has also added GIF support for Messages on watchOS 8. Apple Watch users can input a word or phrase and choose from hundreds of trending GIFs. watchOS 8 also introduces a Contacts app for Apple Watch. Now, you can create, edit, and share contacts directly from the Contacts app on Apple Watch.
New Focus Feature
The Focus feature works when paired with iPhone on iOS 15. It's a feature that helps you reduce distractions and focus on the task at hand. Additionally, Apple suggests different Focus modes, so if you're working out, the watch will remind you to select the Focus for fitness option.
New Types of Workouts and Trainers
WatchOS 8 introduces new workout styles called Tai Chi and Pilates. Apple states that these new exercises 'benefit both physical and mental well-being'. The company is also adding new workouts in Apple Fitness+ with sessions from renowned trainers like Jeanette Jenkins.
Adding additional disciplines such as Tai Chi and new Pilates styles, providing you with a wide range of options for home workouts.
Health-related Features
Mindfulness Feature: This is an enhanced feature of the Breath app in previous versions. In addition to breathing exercises, watchOS 8 also includes the Reflect feature, which helps you establish a meditation method by providing stimulating themes to calm and clear your mind.
Sleep Tracking: While sleeping, the Apple Watch can calculate respiratory rate thanks to watchOS 8. Respiratory rate and other health metrics are listed in the Health app.
Control HomeKit Devices with the New Home App for Apple Watch
One of the major updates that Apple has introduced in watchOS 8 is the new Home app for Apple Watch. This allows users' smartwatches to suggest actions based on surrounding devices.
Similarly, watchOS 8 can suggest actions based on the time of day. For example, turning off lights when it's time to sleep, among others.
AssistiveTouch on Apple Watch
Apple will introduce accessibility features that the company announced prior to WWDC 2021. The list of features includes AssistiveTouch, which will make it easier for individuals with mobility impairments to use the Apple Watch.
AssistiveTouch on Apple Watch utilizes accelerometer and gyroscope sensors integrated to help users operate their Apple Watches more easily without having to touch the screen or physical buttons.
With watchOS 8, the Apple Watch can detect differences in muscle movement and tendon activity to assist users in moving the cursor. Users can perform hand gestures such as clenching or squeezing to navigate within the operating system.
Enhanced Wallet App
With the Wallet feature in watchOS 8, you can unlock your car, unlock your home or office door, or add driver's license information with just a tap on your Apple Watch.
Improved Always On Display Feature
With watchOS 8, Apple has also added small enhancements to the Always-On display on the Apple Watch. Other apps now support this feature such as Maps, Mindfulness, Now Playing, Phone, Stopwatch, Timer, Voice Memos, and other apps.
Apple has also added an API allowing third-party developers to integrate the Always-On display into their apps.
Integration of Find My Items into Apple Watch
Finally, Apple will allow you to track Find My Items, such as AirTags and the new Chipolo One Spot, directly from your Apple Watch. Additionally, there's a new Find Devices app to help users locate lost Apple devices signed in with the same Apple ID.
Conclusion
Although watchOS 8 is considered minor upgrades, there are still many incredibly useful features, even if we hope for some breakthrough features that will need more time to land on your Apple Watch.
What do you think about WatchOS 8?One of the most impressive things is that Apple continues to support the Apple Watch Series 3. Of course, the performance won't be as robust, but you can still update a device that's 4 years old with almost all the latest features from Apple.
Are you excited about watchOS 8? Will you update? Let me know in the comments below!
Source: pocket-lint
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