The new WatchOS 10 features will surely make your life easier as Apple streamlined a bunch of its features and added a couple more, and now Apple Watch addresses a larger audience.
Apple has just rolled out watchOS 10, and it’s packed with exciting new features that are sure to enhance your Apple Watch experience. From improved navigation to cycling enhancements and innovations in health monitoring, there’s a lot to look forward to. Let’s dive into the world of watchOS 10 and discover what’s in store for Apple Watch users.
Getting Started with WatchOS 10 features
Announced at WWDC 2023, watchOS 10 is now available for all Apple Watch users. To get your hands on these new features, simply open the iOS Watch app, go to General, then tap on Software Update. Keep in mind that your Apple Watch should be at least 50% charged, on a charger, and within Bluetooth range of your iPhone for the update to install seamlessly.
New design and easy navigation
One of the first things you’ll notice with watchOS 10 is the fresh design language and improved navigation. Apple Watch apps like Weather, Stocks, Home, Maps, Messages, World Clock, and more now make better use of the display, offering at-a-glance information. The Activity and Fitness apps have also been revamped for a more intuitive experience, with enhanced sharing options, a redesigned trophy case, and valuable Apple Fitness+ trainer tips.
The introduction of the Smart Stack is a game-changer. It’s a collection of widgets that adapt to your needs, accessible by turning the Digital Crown. Whether you want to check the weather in the morning or access your boarding passes while traveling, Smart Stack has you covered. Plus, it doesn’t compromise on style, allowing you to enjoy beautiful watch faces like Portraits while staying informed.
The Control Center is now just a side button press away, providing quick access to essential features no matter which app you’re using. A double-click of the Digital Crown conveniently takes you back to your recently used apps.
Cycling made easier
If you’re a cycling enthusiast, watchOS 10 has some fantastic improvements tailored just for you. Starting a cycling workout on your Apple Watch will now automatically display it as a Live Activity on your iPhone, providing a full-screen view for your convenience. Metrics like Heart Rate Zones, Elevation, Race Route, Custom Workouts, and the new Cycling Speed view have been optimized for iPhone displays, making it easy to track your performance during rides.
What’s even more exciting is that your Apple Watch can now seamlessly connect to Bluetooth-enabled cycling accessories, such as power meters, speed sensors, and cadence sensors. This connection opens up a world of new metrics, including cycling power (watts) and cadence (RPM), and additional Workout Views, including Power Zones. Whether you’re cycling indoors or outdoors, this feature has got you covered.
Navigate with confidence
Exploring the great outdoors is more convenient with watchOS 10. The Compass app on your Apple Watch now generates two new waypoints: a Last Cellular Connection Waypoint and a Last Emergency Call Waypoint. These waypoints come in handy when you need to estimate your last cellular reception or make an emergency call during your adventures.
Planning routes has also become easier with the new Elevation view, offering a 3D perspective of saved waypoints. If you’re in the U.S., you’ll love the new topographic map on Apple Maps, featuring contour lines, hill shading, elevation details, and points of interest. You can also search for nearby trails and trailheads with detailed information like trail length, type, and difficulty.
Prioritize mental health
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s essential to take care of your mental health. With the Mindfulness app in watchOS 10, you can discreetly log your emotions and daily moods. Using the Digital Crown, you can scroll through engaging shapes to express how you’re feeling and what’s impacting you the most.
For deeper insights, check out the Health app in iOS 17 and iPadOS 17, which offers valuable information on what might be affecting your state of mind, such as associations or lifestyle factors like sleep and exercise.
Protect your vision
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision issue worldwide. To help combat this, watchOS 10 introduces the ability to measure your time spent outdoors using the ambient light sensor on your Apple Watch. This data can be viewed in the Health app on your iPhone or iPad, providing valuable insights into your exposure to natural light.
For parents concerned about their children’s vision, Family Setup allows you to pair your child’s Apple Watch with your iPhone, giving you visibility into the time they spend outdoors. This feature can contribute to better physical and mental health for people of all ages.
In conclusion, WatchOS 10 features brings a host of exciting features to the Apple Watch, enhancing both its functionality and style. From improved navigation and cycling enhancements to prioritizing mental health and vision protection, this update has something for everyone. So, if you’re an Apple Watch user, don’t miss out on these fantastic features – update to watchOS 10 today!
Featured image credit: Raagesh C/Unsplash
