Introduction
On September 12, 2023, Apple announced the launch of its latest innovation, the Apple Watch Series 9. According to Apple, the new watch comes with an array of advanced features, including a more powerful S9 SiP chip, a brighter display, and enhanced Siri capabilities. The Series 9 also marks a significant environmental achievement as Apple’s first carbon-neutral product.
Availability and Ordering
Apple states that the new Apple Watch Series 9 can be ordered immediately, with availability starting on Friday, September 22.
Technological Advancements
Apple claims that the watch’s new S9 SiP chip delivers system-wide improvements and introduces new features like a double-tap gesture and on-device Siri with health data logging capabilities. The Series 9 also features a 4-core Neural Engine that can process machine learning tasks up to twice as fast as its predecessor, the Series 8. Despite these advancements, Apple maintains that the watch will still offer an all-day 18-hour battery life.
User Interface and Control
The Series 9 introduces a new double-tap gesture, designed to solve the problem of awkward interactions like using your nose to tap the screen. Apple explains that users can now control the watch by pinching their thumb and index finger together twice, without having to touch the display. This gesture works with various actions, such as stopping a timer, answering a call, or even taking a photo. The feature is enabled by the watch’s faster Neural Engine, which uses machine learning algorithms to detect the unique signature of these tiny wrist movements.
Display and Visibility
Apple highlights that the Series 9 display can reach a maximum brightness of up to 2000 nits, which is double that of the Series 8. This makes it easier to read text in bright sunlight. The display can also lower its brightness to just one nit for less intrusive visibility in dark environments.
Siri and Health Data
For the first time, Siri on the Apple Watch Series 9 can process requests on-device for tasks that don’t require internet access. Apple notes that this results in quicker and more reliable responses. Siri can also access and log health data, offering users a more integrated health and fitness experience.
Precision Finding and HomePod Integration
Apple adds that the Series 9 includes a second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip, enabling Precision Finding for the iPhone 15 family. This feature provides distance, direction, and various types of guidance to locate a misplaced iPhone. The UWB chip also allows for deeper integration with HomePod devices.
watchOS 10
The Series 9 runs on watchOS 10, which Apple says brings redesigned apps, new watch faces, and additional tools for mental health support among other features.
Environmental Milestone
Apple emphasizes that the Series 9 is its first-ever carbon-neutral product, aligning with the company’s 2030 plan to be carbon neutral across its entire business.
Additional Models and Bands
Apple reveals that the Series 9 is available in various sizes and colors, with certain combinations being carbon neutral. The company is also introducing new band materials that are more environmentally friendly.
Pricing and Global Availability
According to Apple, the Series 9 starts at $399 in the U.S. and will be available in more than 40 countries, including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Japan, the UAE, and the U.K.
Apple Watch SE
Apple also mentions that the Apple Watch SE continues to offer core features at a more affordable price point, starting at $249 in the U.S.
Featured Image via Apple
