Latest news with #Series9
Tom's Guide
6 days ago
- Tom's Guide
watchOS 26 preview: 5 new Apple Watch features I can't wait to try
Your Apple Watch is about to get a major (free) update — at least if you own an Apple Watch Series 6 or later. During last week's WWDC, we got our first detailed look at watchOS 12… I mean, watchOS 26. Going forward, Apple's latest operating system release will reflect the last two digits of the coming year. This change affects not just watchOS but all Apple operating systems for Mac, iPhone, iPad, and so forth. While the introduction of a new 'liquid glass' aesthetic — borrowed from visionOS — is easily the most visually impactful change to the Apple Watch operating system in years, it's not the improvement I'm most excited about. In fact, it doesn't even make my top five list. Nope. As someone who reviews smartwatches for a living, these are the five new Apple Watch features coming in watchOS 26 I'm most excited to try in 2025. Ever since Apple introduced its "shake to shuffle" feature on iPod, I've been hooked on the concept of gesture controls for gadgets. Presently, the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10 and Ultra 2 also support Apple's Double Tap gesture control, where users can press their index finger and thumb together on the watch-worn hand to trigger a customizable action. Essentially, it will free you from having to interact with the screen when you're otherwise distracted. Now Apple is adding even more gesture control in the form of "Wrist Flick." With the release of watchOS 26, this action will allow you to silence alarms, dismiss calls and messages, turn off timers and quiet pings. Essentially, it will free you from having to interact with the screen when you're otherwise distracted, or in the case of sleeping, don't feel like opening your eyes. Unfortunately, this seemingly super-useful new gesture will only be available on the Series 9, 10 and Ultra 2 models. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Speaking of annoying pings and notifications, watchOS 26 should make your Apple Watch feel a little less intrusive during the day-to-day. The new operating system introduces smarter notifications that take a hint from your surroundings. Rather than let the entire library reading room or train quiet car know that you've received a message from a friend, your Apple Watch will now measure the ambient noise levels of your surroundings and adjust the notification sound volume accordingly to be less irritating to those around you. Last year's watchOS 11 release introduced on-wrist translations. Now, Apple is taking the concept a step further with 'Live Translation' in the messaging app. This new tool, available on the Series 9, 10 and Ultra 2, will automatically translate incoming texts into a user's default language. I could see this feature being particularly useful when traveling abroad, especially if you're the type of person who easily makes friends while on holiday, language barriers be damned. This also seems like a super handy tool for communicating with friends and family members partial to a language other than your own. Now I can visually scan my shopping list — created on my iPhone hours prior — mid grocery run via a glance at the wrist. I use Apple's Notes app for a wide range of tasks, from jotting down grocery and to-do lists, to recording dreams, article concepts, date night ideas and so much more. Now, finally, Apple is bringing this simple yet oh-so-useful app to the Apple Watch. Users will be able to record notes either via dictation, the tiny virtual keyboard or through Siri. Of course, you don't need to create the note on your Apple Watch. As always, a user's notes get shared across all connected devices, meaning now I can visually scan my shopping list — created earlier on my iPhone — mid-grocery run via a glance at the wrist. Rumors strongly suggested some sort of AI-powered workout coach coming to Apple Watch, and they turned out to be true. Apple's new AI "Workout Buddy" feature — available on Series 9, 10 and Ultra 2 — is designed to deliver personalized words of encouragement, wellness insights and more mid and post workout. These messages — delivered via Bluetooth audio — are based on factors like your current heart rate, pace or speed, as well as Activity Ring history and personal workout milestones. Once you're done, the Workout Buddy sums up your efforts with key stats, along with some final thoughts to gas you up for your next session. While it sounds a tad cheesy to me (do I really need a computer-generated voice giving me a pep talk before my next bike ride?), I'm cautiously optimistic that this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to AI-powered health features on Apple Watch. The watchOS 26 developer beta is available now, while the public beta — which anyone can try — is set for a July release. As with previous updates, the full release of watchOS 26 is expected in the fall. All Apple Watch models Series 6 and later are eligible for the upgrade, as well as both SE and Ultra models.
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Yahoo
Best Apple Watch for 2025
The Apple Watch is a worthy iPhone companion. It flows seamlessly into the Apple ecosystem, with frequent software updates that keep it feeling fresh and health features that build on the strengths of both devices to help you reach your goals. But not all Apple Watches are created equal and understanding the differences is key to finding the right fit for your needs and budget. Whether you're buying your first Apple Watch, upgrading an older model or shopping for a family member, we've highlighted the best smartwatch options to help you land on the right choice. The Apple Watch Series 10 takes everything great about its predecessors and elevates it. Compared to the Series 9, it offers a larger, brighter screen without adding bulk (it's actually lighter), more power under the hood and faster charging than any other Apple Watch, including the Ultra 2. While its features may not drastically differ from the Series 9, its next-gen processor ensures it will likely outlast its predecessor in terms of software updates. It also includes a few more subtle upgrades, like voice isolation for calls, music playback and a depth gauge with a water temperature sensor for aquatic activities. In October 2024, we added the Apple Watch Series 10 to our list. The new watch replaces last year's Apple Watch Series 9 and is the best Apple Watch for most people. All Apple Watches share the same core DNA: a square screen with rounded edges, a rotating crown, interchangeable straps and Apple's WatchOS with Siri integration. The differences lie in the details with factors like advanced health sensors, durability, battery life and screen size. Oh, and price. Budget: If you're on a budget and want the best deal, it might be worth waiting for major discount days like Black Friday when most retailers, including Apple, offer sales or gift-card cash-back incentives. Another way to cut costs is by purchasing a refurbished Apple Watch directly from Apple. They come with the same one-year warranty as new models, eligibility for AppleCare and a 14-day return window. Design: There are a lot of ways to customize your Apple Watch, including different finishes and watch bands. But dressing up your Apple Watch doesn't always come cheap and some of the more premium design options like the titanium finish and stainless steel band can increase the base price by $600. You can also customize the size of your screen; older models or the 2nd SE will have the smallest option (40mm) while the Apple Watch Ultra offers the largest (49mm) display. Battery: Battery life continues to be a major pain point for Apple Watch users, with no model going past the three-day mark like some Android models. And while Apple has made strides in this category, it's best to taper your expectations by accepting that you'll probably get a day's worth of charge (with the always on display) on most models. If that's a deal breaker, you'll need to splurge on the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which is the only model that lasts up to 72 hours. Wi-Fi Only vs. Cellular: Most users will find the Wi-Fi version sufficient. It tracks workouts and makes mobile payments independently from the phone but needs to be in range of your iPhone to access some of the smart features like notifications, messaging and calls. Cellular and Wi-Fi models are only worth the splurge (an additional $100) if you plan to ditch your iPhone on a regular basis and need the watch to be a standalone device and have access to all the features. And it's your only option if you're buying the Ultra 2 as it doesn't offer a Wi-Fi only option. We test all our Apple Watches in the real world and focus on any new features or claims in addition to all the other features you'll be using on a regular basis like fitness tracking and connectivity. All Apple Watches, including the cellular models, need to connect to an iPhone so we also assess how easy the companion software is to navigate. Durability and design: Smartwatches are something you wear on your body so we assess how comfortable they are to wear. We also know that everyone has a different-sized wrist so we try to see how it fits and feels on a variety of people. Then we look at how it stands up to wear and tear with daily life. Some models, like the Ultra 2, offer increased durability like dust resistance or water resistance that's suited for activities like scuba diving and, where possible, we'll test this out for ourselves. Battery: Battery life will vary depending on how you use a smartwatch so we test battery life with a few standard tests. We see how long it generally lasts on a single charge with features that represent typical use, like the always-on display, sleep tracking and doing one outdoor workout with GPS. Fitness and health sensor accuracy: We test the accuracy of the Apple Watch using a few different methods. The heart rate sensor, for example, is compared against the readings taken from a chest strap, considered the gold standard in consumer heart rate tracking, during a variety of cardio-based activities like running or cycling. We also check to see how long it takes to connect to a GPS signal when doing an outdoor workout. Other health sensors, like a blood oxygen sensor (not active on newer models), are compared against a pulse oximeter for spot readings where possible, and for the ECG feature, we tested it against a hospital grade ECG. While no longer sold directly by Apple, the Apple Watch Series 9 is still a strong option if you can find it. Stores like Best Buy and Target often have it in stock for about $100 less than the Series 10. You'll miss out on the larger, redesigned screen and ultra fast charging but it still includes key health features not available on the cheaper SE, like the ECG app, temperature sensing and sleep apnea notifications. Unless you're ready to switch from your iPhone to an Android device, it's best to avoid Wear OS watches like Samsung's Galaxy Watch or Google's Pixel Watch, as they offer limited compatibility with Apple devices. Instead, consider watches that run proprietary operating systems, such as Garmin's Venu 3 or Huawei's Watch Fit 3. Garmin is known for its fitness-focused models for athletes but they also offer solid smartwatch features. The Amazfit Active 2 is also worth considering for a simpler, budget-friendly option that covers the basics. The best Apple Watch for kids is the Apple Watch SE (2nd generation) with Wi-Fi and Cellular. A feature fittingly called "Apple Watch for your Kids" allows parents to set up the watch from their own iPhones without needing a separate iPhone for the child. Parents can track the location of their kid in real time and manage who their kids can contact during what times to minimize distractions during school hours. Even if you wanted to treat your kid to one of the newer models, key features like ECG, wrist temperature and sleep tracking are disabled in this mode anyway. Read more: Apple Watch for Kids If you've purchased an Apple Watch within the past year, you may notice the Blood Oxygen feature in your app list doesn't load. This is no coincidence. Apple introduced SpO2 (blood oxygen) tracking with the Series 6 but was forced to disable it in units sold after Jan. 18, 2024, following a patent lawsuit filed by medical tech company Masimo. According to Apple's website the company is appealing the ruling so it's possible this feature could make a comeback. Smartwatches are only getting smarter about health and the Apple Watch is no exception. Whether it's better sensors, new metrics or more personalized coaching, Apple may be taking a queue from competitors like Garmin and Google and leaning more on AI to make sense of your data to personalize insights. One trend I'd love to see the Apple Watch adopt this year is better battery life; smarter software and hardware upgrades like the dual CPU architecture on the OnePlus Watch 3 are finally making multi-day wear feel realistic. Meanwhile, the definition of a wearable is expanding fast with more smart rings making their debuts as well as upgraded earbud options with built-in health sensors that are already nudging into smartwatch territory. They probably won't replace watches entirely but they're definitely raising the bar and will continue giving the Apple Watch a healthy push forward.
Evening Standard
08-06-2025
- Evening Standard
Best Samsung washing machines: AI tech innovations for your home
Available in dazzling 'Dark Steel' and nothing else, the Bespoke AI Series 9 is a statement piece for the kitchen or fancy pants laundry room should you be so loaded, being both bold in colourway and beautifully minimalist of design, with its moody silver body, Black Deco and glass door, and slick 7-inch LCD touchscreen interface. Even the line of the detergent drawer is unspoilt by anything as tawdry as a handle. Is it weird to attribute such aspects of beauty to an appliance? Absolutely. Do I regret a word of it? Absolutely not. But, moving past the aesthetic, the sultry Series 9 comes rated class 'A-55 per cent' for incredible energy efficiency, features a nicely capacious 9kg drum to cope with the detergent-requiring demands of medium to larger households, and comes imbued with Samsung's AI Home, that aforementioned LCD touchscreen panel that not only allows for quick, intuitive control, but also lets you personalise your wash more by suggesting cycles and remembering your favoured settings, like a golf caddy, but for laundry. Amongst the simply epic 28-strong programme settings sits AI Wash, sensing the weight of the load and the level of soiling, then automatically adjusting temperature, detergent amount, and soaking, rinsing and spinning times to suit. AI Ecobubble is, of course, also available, as is AI Energy Mode with the Wi-Fi linked SmartThings app, then there's all the usual cycle suspects, covering all manner of materials, throwing in Eco cycles, Cold settings, and the complete breadth of programmes found in the Series 5, 6 and 8 models I've already explored, plus two Super Speed functions for the furiously time-poor. Naturally, Auto Dose is present to save you the hassle of having to workout how much detergent and softener you need each wash, as is Drum Clean and a StayClean Drawer to keep the whole shebang sparkling and bacteria-free, and – going above and beyond on tech convenience – if your day has been so soul-sucking that you can't even raise the energy to poke gently at the display, you can just tell it what to do. Yes, it is a Samsung, after all, so it's only right that the Bespoke AI Series 9 WF90F09C4SU1 should come with Bixby 'On Device'. So, simply tell it what you want it to do and Bixby will take your word as its command.
Business Insider
24-04-2025
- Business Insider
Apple Watch Series 10 review: The top Apple smartwatch for most people, following our long-term testing
The Apple Watch Series 10 hits the sweet spot for most people looking for a fully featured iPhone companion with the fewest compromises and the best value. It easily tops our guide for the best Apple Watch. I've tested and used the Series 10 since its launch in September 2024, and it has delivered a typically excellent Apple Watch experience. While it has a limited array of exclusive new features, it sports a refreshed, slimmer design and larger displays, welcome upgrades to an Apple Watch line that had largely remained identical since the Series 7 from 2021. Most features and functions that make the Series 10 great are also available to older Apple Watch models that support the latest watchOS 11 operating system, dating back to the Series 6. As such, I'll indicate new features exclusive to the Series 10 throughout. Design: A welcome refresh, with a thinner profile and larger display Despite its slimmer design (by 10% compared to the Series 9), larger display, and new wide-angle OLED for better watch face visibility, the Apple Watch Series 10 doesn't look drastically different than its predecessors. It remains recognizable at a glance as a standard Apple Watch. The Series 10's slimmer design impacts the wearer more, as all sizes are notably lighter than the comparable models from recent generations. On the wrist and upon closer inspection, the Series 10 looks sleeker than previous models, and the larger 46mm aluminum model feels almost weightless for its size. The Series 10's larger 42mm and 46mm displays are appreciable bumps over previous models with 40 to 41mm and 44 to 45mm displays. Indeed, the millimeter number corresponds to the case size rather than the display size, and the display of the Series 10's 46mm option is actually bigger than the Ultra 2 with a 49mm casing, thanks to thinner borders around the display. The time and widgets aren't necessarily easier to read by default than on other recent models. However, you'll love the Series 10 if you've wished Apple Watch displays were larger on either the smaller- or larger-sized version of the Series line. Conversely, some might wish Apple kept the smaller model at 40mm, as my wife initially did regarding her retired Series 5. However, she has fully adapted to the 42mm Series 10's size and doesn't think twice about it after a few months. While the new wide-angle OLED display somewhat improves visibility when glancing at the Series 10 at an angle, we never had any related complaints about previous models. The aluminum Series 10 is available in silver, rose gold, and a polished jet black, which is limited compared to previous models, as the aluminum Series 9 was available in five colors. That said, the polished jet black finish was previously available exclusively on the pricier stainless steel Hermes version of the Series 9. Fans of the jet black finish will appreciate its availability with the more affordable aluminum option. New for Apple Watch Series models is the Series 10's titanium option, which replaces the previous stainless steel models as the higher-end alternative to aluminum. Titanium Series 10 models are available in polished (shiny) natural, gold, and slate (a very dark gray) finishes. Performance and smartwatch capabilities: Apple's fastest processor powers exclusive new features The Series 10 runs on Apple's latest smartwatch processor, the S10, and the latest watchOS 11 operating system. Performance is snappy and smooth, as expected from the latest Apple Watch models. Unless you have a very old Apple Watch, performance is rarely an issue for most people. However, the S10 processor powers new smartwatch features exclusive to the Series 10 that anyone could benefit from, like background noise suppression during phone calls. In our testing, it's difficult to say if the feature is comparatively more effective, as we've rarely faced issues with background noise during phone calls on previous Apple Watches. Still, it's good to have any improvement in phone call quality. Otherwise, the Series 10 running on the S10 processor efficiently carries forward all the usual smartwatch features, like checking notifications, taking calls, sending messages, widgets, the always-on super-bright (or super dim 1-nit) display, precision iPhone finding, and double-tap gesture support that have made the standard Apple Watch such a stellar companion to the iPhone. Playing audio from the watch is also new to the Series line with the Series 10's redesigned speakers. It works, but if you were hoping it would let you listen to audio in the shower, you'll be disappointed. Water over the speaker muffles audio to the point that it's barely audible. Health and fitness tracking: Variously helpful new apps and updates With watchOS 11 comes new health and fitness features, but many of these features are also supported on the Series 6 and newer or the second-generation Apple Watch SE, which also run watchOS 11. I will specify features that are exclusive to the Series 10 model below. The new Vitals feature aggregates data collected overnight from various sensors to summarize your daily health and alert you if any measurements are out of your typical range. Vitals measures heart rate, respiratory rate, wrist temperature, and sleep duration. Vitals hasn't been particularly useful, as it tells me what I already know: My vitals are non-typical when I'm sick and typical when I'm not. It's not designed to reveal unperceived diseases or conditions; Apple says it notifies you of non-typical data in situations most people are likely aware of, like elevation changes, alcohol consumption, and illnesses. Also new with watchOS 11 is Training Load, which measures and analyzes your workouts combined with your Vitals and can help you decide when to take it easy and when to push yourself. Activity Rings got an update that lets you pause your Rings streak progress. For die-hard Activity Rings streakers, this finally lets them take a rest day, and it won't ruin a massive streak if they get injured or sick. Apple has also added a Sleep Apnea notification feature. It seems to work, as it tells me I don't have sleep apnea, and I don't believe I suffer from it. A family member who has sleep apnea and uses the Series 10 confirmed that it can accurately detect possible sleep apnea. The new Tides app tells you tidal information for coastlines and surf spots, and it's been handy to use when visiting beaches to check for low or high tide. You can easily get tidal information from your iPhone, but it's also convenient to have it on the Apple Watch Series 6 and newer. Specific to the Series 10 among the Series models, watchOS 11 adds a depth gauge up to 19.6 feet and can tell you the water temperature. It's similar to the Apple Watch Ultra 2's depth gauge feature, but doesn't go as deep (131 feet). It's fine for recreational diving, and it's handy to see the water temperature when you're enjoying a pool. Other software features: New and improved aspects common to all recent Apple Watches Among the new features supported across Apple Watches that run watchOS 11 is an improved Smart Stack. It does a remarkable job of anticipating and knowing what tasks and shortcuts to show so you don't have to search through your Apple Watch apps. For example, I can pull up Smart Stack to view a timer's status, start a workout, or control media playback from an iPhone, even on devices using AirPlay. WatchOS 11 also debuted the Translate app for translating and playing translations out loud. It works well, but like most translating apps and services, it's not fast and automatic enough to be suitable for casual conversation. Rather, it's good for shorter translations, like getting directions. Offline translation is also available on the Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2, which is handy for traveling when data or WiFi connections aren't always available. Apple also introduced summarized notifications powered by Apple Intelligence (forwarded from an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence), and they perform their function adequately. However, only some notifications are summarized, like certain messages and repetitive motion detections from a security camera. Battery and charging: No battery life enhancements, though it supports faster charging Battery life on the Series 10 is about the same as any recent Apple Watch Series model. In our testing, you'll get about a day and a half of use on non-workout days before recharging, and slightly less on workout days due to increased sensor usage. You can get about two full days of battery life if you turn off the always-on display, but you might as well buy the second-gen Apple Watch SE if you don't use the always-on display. The Series 10 features faster charging thanks to more efficient charging internals and the new charger (Model A2515) with a nylon fabric cord that Apple includes with the watch. With a 20W USB-C charger, Apple claims you can get eight hours of sleep tracking with a quick 15-minute charge, or a 0% to 80% charge in 30 minutes on average. I haven't specifically tested to validate the former claim, but I can confirm that charging is the fastest on any Apple Watch I've tested so far. The faster charging speed makes it easier for the Series 10 to have enough battery during the day and night for sleep and vitals tracking, as you can effectively give it occasional top-ups during the day. For example, I charge the Series 10 during my shower and teeth-brushing routines and when I give the kids baths and put them down for bed, which often gets the watch to 100% or close to it. I have yet to get close to 20% battery life with my charging routine. Should you buy the Apple Watch Series 10? The Apple Watch Series 10 is easily worth an upgrade if you have an ageing model, namely the Series 5 or earlier. Those models aren't supported with the latest versions of the watchOS operating system anymore, so they don't get the latest features or security updates. If you have a more recent model that supports most of the features in watchOS 11, but you feel its performance is lagging, the Series 10 will fix that, as the newest Apple Watch in the Series line features Apple's latest and fastest smartwatch processor. First-time Apple Watch buyers will also be extremely happy with the Series 10. You could opt for the second-generation Apple Watch SE at a cheaper, entry-level price to see if you like having a smartwatch or if you can manage without the always-on display. However, if your budget allows, the Series 10 tops our best Apple Watch guide, and it's worth buying over the SE.
Yahoo
07-03-2025
- Yahoo
'Phenomenal': The Apple Watch 10 just dropped to $299 — its lowest price ever
The Apple Watch is the bestselling watch of all time and the Series 10 is currently at its lowest price ever — $299. That's a cool $100 off, especially impressive for the current-generation model. It's slimmer than the Series 9, with a bigger screen and fresh new color options (Seriously, a Rose Gold Aluminum Case with a Plum Sport Loop? You'll be rocking the most stylish wrist in the office). Don't sleep on this one. Time's ticking... At $100 off and an all-time low price, this is among the juiciest Apple Watch deals we've ever seen. The watch only debuted last fall and it has never been priced lower. If you're in the market for a smartwatch, you can't go wrong with the Series 10. There are loads of features that make it worth checking out, but some of the best are its sleep and fitness tracking abilities. Pair that with other advanced health options like monitoring your blood oxygen level, taking ECGs and you have a device that feels fine-tuned to help keep you healthy. It's a great workout companion and can track your steps taken and more. How does the Series 10 compare to the Apple Watch Ultra 2? Easy: We think it's better. The Ultra 2 is larger, bulkier and, yes, tougher — but it's a relatively small upgrade over the original Ultra. The Series 10 has tons of aspects that put it on par with the Ultra 2 while also being more suitable for people with smaller wrists. Another factor? The price difference: The Series 10 is $299, while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is more than twice the price at $732. It's an Apple device, so you know it has a lot of supporters — more than 2,400, and that number is on the rise. "The battery life is phenomenal; I can literally go two days without charging. When I do have to charge it, it's full in about 30 [minutes]," praised one five-star reviewer who loved the battery life compared to his previous Apple Watch. "The band (M/L) is a perfect fit. I love the slimmer profile of the Series 10 compared to the previous models," praised another five-star Apple customer. "The watch works seamlessly with my iPhone 15 Pro and my MacBook. There is a little bit of a learning curve and it will take some trial and error to get the face layout and [customizations] the way I want, but it's so easy to customize the watch." "My previous one was a 44mm, I went to 46 only because it would ship faster than the 42," explained a happy five-star reviewer. "Honestly, it doesn't feel any bigger, and in fact, it's more comfortable than my [Series] 7 since it's thinner. Sometimes I don't even feel it on my wrist." "Buy a screen protector!" warned a five-star reviewer. "Unfortunately, the normal Apple Watches scratch easily and you'll really regret not protecting it," adding, "they're basically strong, clear stickers that are completely invisible but will keep the watch scratch-free." "It is not inexpensive, but I think it was worth it," said a four-star reviewer who loved everything except the battery life. "I would have rated it five stars if it had a multi-day battery life like the Fitbit Sense that I also wear." The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication. If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)
