Workout app
watchOS 9 introduces new workout features with more metrics and new ways to visualize them with Workout Views. Use custom workouts and heart rate zones to improve performance and reduce injury. And with a new Multisport workout, triathletes can automatically switch between swimming, biking, and running. There are also customizable alerts, the ability to race a previous route, and a redesigned Workout Summary.
Medications
watchOS 9 brings a new medications app which allows you to discreetly and conveniently track medications. In the Health app on iPhone, manage your medications list, create schedules and reminders, and learn more about your medications, including if there are interactions that could cause issues.
New Watch faces
watchOS 9 introduces even more ways to express yourself with four new watch faces—Astronomy, Lunar, Play Time, and Metropolitan. More faces support rich complications, and there’s a new background color editor for Modular Compact, Modular, and X-Large. And you can add dogs and cats to the Portraits face.
AFib History
If you’ve been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, AFib History can estimate how frequently your heart is in AFib and track lifestyle factors that may affect your condition.
Sleep Stages
Gather deeper insights into your sleep with Sleep Stages. Review detailed information, including how much time you spent in each stage and when you might have woken up.
Other features
watchOS 9 also includes a refreshed Siri UI, expanded keyboard languages for Apple Watch Series 7, new banner notifications, and quick access to apps you’re running—pinned at the top of the Dock. Apple Watch Mirroring uses AirPlay so you can stream your Apple Watch to your iPhone and use Switch Control, Voice Control, or any assistive features on iPhone. And developers can use CallKit, Share Sheet, and Photos Picker to build best-in-class communication features on their apps.
Availability:
watchOS 9 will work with Apple Watch Series 4 or later paired with iPhone 8 or later with iOS 16. The developer beta is available today for developers part of the Apple Developer Program. Public beta in July through the Apple Beta Software Program (beta.apple.com) Free software update for everyone in fall 2022.
Author: Holden Satterwhite
Founder of Appleosophy and Redfruit Media. Twitter: @hesatter
