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As of September 12, owners of supported Apple Watch models can finally download the new WatchOS 9 software update, which was announced back in June during the company's annual WWDC event.
This time the update is a substantial one, bringing improvements and new features across the board for regular users to those who use their Apple Watch for fitness and health tracking. Among the many changes and new additions, however, some stick out more than the rest, which is why we have made a list of 5 that we think are the most noteworthy.
Before we begin, though, it is probably best to check out whether your Apple Watch supports the WatchOS 9 update.
These are all the WatchOS 9 supported Apple Watch models:
Of course, if you've pre-ordered one of the new Apple Watches, you don't have to worry about updating to the latest software as they already come with it preinstalled.
Apple Watch Ultra: get at Amazon
The rugged Apple Watch Ultra is available at Amazon. At the moment, you can get the wearable at its standard price. Limited quantities available.
The bigger Apple Watch Series 8 in Starlight is now available in the (Product) RED at its standard price. This is the version without cellular connectivity.
The bigger version of the Watch SE (2022) is also available to order at Amazon. Right now, the GPS wearable arrives for 22% less than usual. That saves you $60 on the 44mm smartwatch.
For the watch-face aficionados out there, WatchOS 9 is bringing 3 new options in the form of Lunar calendar, Playtime, and Metropolitan. All of these new watch faces make full use of the larger screens on the Apple Watch Series 7 and Series 8.
But it is not all about new watch faces. Apple has improved some of the older options as well, like the Portraits face, which now supports pet portraits. The Astronomy face has also been massively upgraded to match with the one found on iOS 16, now with much more customization options for the font, view, style, and complications.
(Image credit - Apple) The Portraits face now lets you put pictures of your dog or cat on it.
Another interesting tidbit about WatchOS 9 is that you can set a particular watch face depending on the focus mode you are in, much like with iOS 16 and your iPhone.
A more powerful Workout app
There is a truckload of new workout features that elevate the Apple Watch's fitness tracking experience by a considerable amount.
First, you have new customizable workout views that offer you more specific at-a-glance information while you are training. You navigate the different pages by turning the watch's crown, or by simply swiping on the screen. You now also have the ability to create your own custom workout and tailor it to your liking.
For runners, WatchOS 9 offers a much richer picture of your performance with data on your stride length, ground contact time, vertical customization (also known as vertical bounce). In addition to those metrics, the Apple Watch can now also track your running power to help you determine the amount of force you are using during your run.
Another fun new feature for running and cycling is the competing against your previous best result with in-the-moment updates to keep you on your toes.
A new Multisport feature also makes an appearance with WatchOS 9. This feature will automatically detect and move between swimming, cycling, and running — a perfect option for triathlon athletes and enthusiasts.
Your Apple Watch is now able to detect specific sleep cycles, i.e. REM, Core, or Deep sleep, by utilizing the gyroscope and heart rate sensor to monitor you while you get your daily dose of shut-eye. You can also check comparison graphs on your iPhone's Health app, to track your sleeping patterns, as well as your heart and respiratory rates.
Direct control over Calendar and Reminder apps
(Image credit - Apple)
The Calendar and Reminders apps are now more interactive than before, minimizing the need to reach for your iPhone. For example, you can now add a new event via the Calendar app with every detail regarding that event. With the Reminders app you can edit the reminders that you have already set up.
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A redesigned Compass app
WatchOS 9 comes with a much-improved compass app. You now get three different versions that change the look and information displayed, easy access to waypoints, but most noteworthy of all is the new backtrack feature.
Backtrack does what you probably already suspect it does — it allows you to keep track of your route and follow the same path back, helping you feel safe when in a new area or in the wilderness.
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Aleksandar is a tech enthusiast with a broad range of interests, from smartphones to space exploration. His curiosity extends to hands-on DIY experiments with his gadgets, and he enjoys switching between different brands to experience the latest innovations. Prior to joining PhoneArena, Aleksandar worked on the Google Art Project, digitizing valuable artworks and gaining diverse perspectives on technology. When he's not immersed in tech, Aleksandar is an outdoorsman who enjoys mountain hikes, wildlife photography, and nature conservation. His interests also extend to martial arts, running, and snowboarding, reflecting his dynamic approach to life and technology.
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