The Apple Watch Series 9, after undergoing several incremental updates, introduces a genuinely exciting new feature called Double Tap. This feature promises to redefine user interaction with the flagship Apple Watch, slated for release later this year. During my brief experience with it, I found Double Tap to be a delightful addition, offering intuitive functionality that is likely to make a significant impact.
In addition to Double Tap, the Series 9 brings a brighter screen and on-device Siri capabilities, which enhance the user experience by ensuring secure processing of health-related queries. While these updates are welcomed, the overall design and core functionalities remain largely unchanged from its predecessors. Despite this, the Series 9 is positioned to be the optimal choice for most users seeking a reliable and versatile smartwatch from Apple.
One of the notable advancements in the Series 9 is its commitment to eco-friendliness, featuring recycled materials and integrating Ultra Wideband radio technology. This technology not only enhances device connectivity but also sets the stage for future innovations across Apple’s ecosystem.
Design and Build
Retaining its familiar form factor, the Series 9 maintains the design aesthetics and dimensions of its predecessors. Available in two sizes—41mm and 45mm—the watch continues to feature an aluminum or stainless steel case/bezel option. The display has been upgraded to a 352 x 430 px always-on OLED Retina Display for the 41mm variant and 396 x 484 px for the 45mm variant, ensuring improved clarity and visibility in various lighting conditions. The Series 9 retains its water resistance (WR50), making it suitable for swimming and other water activities.
Features and Functionality
Double Tap Gesture
The standout feature of the Series 9 is the Double Tap gesture. Utilizing the accelerometer and gyroscope, this feature allows users to perform actions like starting/stopping timers, snoozing alarms or answering calls with a simple two-pinch motion. This gesture is designed to prevent accidental activation, requiring users to raise their watch and perform the pinch deliberately.
Ultra Wideband Technology
The integration of Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology in the Series 9 enhances its connectivity capabilities. The improved Find Devices feature leverages UWB for precise location tracking, displaying the distance and direction of paired devices like the iPhone 15. This functionality promises greater accuracy in locating devices within proximity, a feature likely to expand with future Apple devices.
On-Device Siri
For the first time, Siri on the Series 9 can process queries directly on the device without needing to connect to the cloud. This enhancement not only improves response times but also enhances privacy by ensuring that health-related inquiries remain secure on the device.
Performance and Battery Life
Powered by the new S9 chipset, the Series 9 delivers robust day-to-day performance. The upgraded processor ensures smooth navigation through the watchOS 10 operating system, enhancing overall usability. Despite these improvements, the Series 9 maintains the same 18-hour battery life as its predecessors, which may be considered a drawback for users expecting longer battery longevity.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Apple has made significant strides towards sustainability with the Series 9, emphasizing its carbon-neutral manufacturing processes. The use of recycled materials, including cobalt in batteries and aluminum in casings, underscores Apple’s commitment to reducing environmental impact. Additionally, efforts to minimize packaging size and offset electricity usage during product charging contribute to Apple’s sustainability goals.
User Experience and Interface
Navigating the Series 9 is intuitive, thanks to its combination of the digital crown, side button and touchscreen interface. The introduction of watchOS 10 brings enhancements such as the new widget stack, which streamlines access to essential information and apps. This feature, while not exclusive to the Series 9, enhances the overall user experience by providing customizable and easily accessible widgets.
Comparison with Previous Models
In comparison to its predecessors, the Series 9 maintains a similar external design and sizing, suggesting a conservative approach to product evolution. While innovations like Double Tap and enhanced connectivity through UWB represent notable advancements, the iterative nature of updates may leave existing Series 8 or Series 7 users questioning the necessity of an upgrade.
Pricing and Availability
The Series 9 is available in two variants: the 41mm starting at $399 / £399 / AU$649 and the 45mm starting at $429 / £429 / AU$699. These price points reflect Apple’s positioning of the Series 9 as a premium smartwatch with advanced features and capabilities.
Overall, the Apple Watch Series 9 consolidates Apple’s leadership in the smartwatch market by introducing innovative features like Double Tap and integrating advanced technologies such as Ultra Wideband. While it continues the tradition of excellent performance and user-friendly design, the Series 9 falls short in addressing battery life concerns and pushing the boundaries of design innovation. Nevertheless, for users seeking a reliable and feature-rich smartwatch, particularly those invested in Apple’s ecosystem and future-proofing their devices with UWB capabilities, the Series 9 remains a compelling choice. As Apple continues to refine its flagship wearable, future updates and ecosystem integration are expected to further enhance its appeal and functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the standout features of the Apple Watch Series 9?
The Series 9 introduces the Double Tap gesture, enhanced on-device Siri and Ultra Wideband technology for precise device tracking.
How does the Double Tap feature work?
Double Tap uses the accelerometer and gyroscope to perform actions like starting timers or answering calls with a two-pinch gesture.
What is Ultra Wideband technology used for in the Series 9?
It enhances device connectivity, especially with iPhone 15 models, offering precise location tracking and improved Find Devices functionality.
Is the Apple Watch Series 9 environmentally friendly?
Yes, it features recycled materials and is manufactured with a carbon-neutral approach, emphasizing sustainability.
What improvements does the Series 9 offer in performance?
It includes a new S9 chipset for faster processing, smooth navigation with watchOS 10 and improved on-device Siri capabilities.
Does the Series 9 have a better display than previous models?
Yes, it offers a brighter and more powerful OLED Retina Display, enhancing visibility in various lighting conditions.
What is the battery life of the Apple Watch Series 9?
It maintains the same 18-hour battery life as previous models, which may require daily charging for regular use.
How user-friendly is the Series 9 interface?
Navigating with the digital crown, side button and touchscreen remains intuitive, enhanced by features like the new widget stack in watchOS 10.
Who should consider upgrading to the Apple Watch Series 9?
Users looking for advanced features like Double Tap, improved connectivity with UWB and sustainability benefits would find the Series 9 compelling.