Apple has unveiled yesterday, June 4, watchOS 5, the operating system that will transform your Apple watches as a “strong companion for fitness, communication and quick access to information”.
With the latest update, Apple Watch owners will be able to experience the latest updates, improvements, and additions to this powerful watch by September this year.
The newest features included in the list are Activity Sharing competitions, auto-workout detection, advanced running features, and Walkie-Talkie.
We round up some of the features Apple Watch users will look forward to from this software update.
1. Competitions
Of all the features offered by the watchOS 5, this is the one that took the attention of many. The new software will allow Apple Watch owners to compete with each other in a variety of activities including workouts like running or indoor biking. The competition lasts for seven days.
Adding more excitement and fun, instructions on how to beat the opponent are given as well as live updates on the progress of the competition. Opponents can also send messages to each other.
2. Auto-workout detection
Working out but forget to set your watch on start? The new update will detect any workout movement from the user and automatically update the progress. The update will also notify the user to end the workout session after a some time of inactivity.
3. New workout and running features
Yoga and hiking will never be the same, and it’ll be better as the watchOS 5 adds these two exciting features to the existing 12 workout detection feature in the current software.
Moreover, runners will have the ability to track the steps they are able to accomplish in a minute, and monitor and control their pacing whenever a runner does an outdoor run.
4. Walkie-Talkie
Feel like a special agent with the Walkie-Talkie feature of the latest Apple Watch software. Now made easier, users only need to grant access to other Apple Watch users for them to send voice messages to each other. Need something quick and important to say? Well, all you need to do is simply hold the Walkie-Talkie button and you are good to go.
5. WatchOS 5 Podcasts
Similar to the concept of an audiobook, podcasts are audio shows where the hosts talk about a variety of topic depending on user’s preference. Different shows offer different topics from sports to politics and pop culture.
With the latest software update, users can now listen to their favorite podcasts while running, driving, commuting, or doing household chores with no hassle.
These five features are only few of the new features available on the latest Apple Watch software update.
Notifications from third party applications are also made better while Siri watch face will be made more proactive.
With reports from www.apple.com
