CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA — Apple Inc. has once again pushed the boundaries of innovation with the unveiling of its highly anticipated Apple Watch Series 9. This latest iteration of the world’s best-selling smartwatch brings forth a slew of groundbreaking features while marking a significant step towards Apple’s ambitious carbon-neutral initiative, Apple 2030.
Power and Performance: The S9 SiP
The heart of the Apple Watch Series 9 lies in its cutting-edge S9 System in Package (SiP). This custom-designed Apple chip represents a remarkable leap in smartwatch technology. It not only elevates performance but also introduces novel capabilities.
With a 4-core Neural Engine, the S9 SiP processes machine learning tasks up to twice as fast as its predecessor, the Series 8. Despite these enhancements, the Series 9 maintains its impressive 18-hour battery life.
A Gesture of Innovation: Double Tap
Apple has introduced a game-changing double tap gesture. With a simple tap of the index finger and thumb, users can now perform a multitude of actions without needing to touch the display. This intuitive innovation offers convenience like never before. It can control music playback, answer calls, stop timers, and even activate the Camera Remote feature. This feature will be further refined and expanded through a software update scheduled for next month.
Brilliant Display
The Series 9 boasts a display that reaches a maximum brightness of 2000 nits, doubling the capabilities of its predecessor, the Series 8. This enhanced brightness ensures optimal readability even under direct sunlight. Additionally, the Series 9 can dim to just one nit, perfect for low-light environments.
On-Device Siri with Health Integration
For the first time on an Apple Watch, Siri requests can be processed directly on the device, eliminating the need for a constant internet connection. This translates to faster, more reliable responses for common tasks. Moreover, Siri can now access and log health-related data from the Health app, allowing users to inquire about their health and fitness metrics with ease.
Precision Finding and HomePod Integration
Apple’s new Series 9 incorporates a second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip, enabling Precision Finding for the iPhone 15 family. This feature provides detailed directions and guidance to locate a misplaced iPhone, even when it’s in another room. The Series 9 also enhances integration with the HomePod, offering seamless control of media playback.
watchOS 10: Elevating the Experience
Running on watchOS 10, the Series 9 introduces a fresh approach to accessing information with redesigned apps and the innovative Smart Stack. Users can also enjoy new watch faces, including Snoopy, Palette, Solar Analog, and Nike Globe. Cyclists will appreciate the addition of Bluetooth connectivity for power meters, speed sensors, and cadence sensors, along with enhanced workout tracking and views.
Carbon Neutral Milestone
In a historic move, Apple now offers a carbon-neutral option for all Apple Watch models, underscoring its commitment to the Apple 2030 initiative. This represents a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of these products.
Emissions from materials, electricity, and transportation have been significantly lowered, and any remaining emissions are offset through high-quality carbon credits from nature-based projects. Furthermore, Apple has redesigned the packaging to be entirely fiber-based, signaling which models are carbon neutral.
A Look at the Lineup
The Apple Watch Series 9 is available in 41mm and 45mm sizes, offering a range of color options in aluminum and stainless steel cases. The Apple Watch SE continues to provide the core Apple Watch experience at a more affordable price point. Both models now offer carbon-neutral options when paired with select bands.
Sustainable Bands
Apple is committed to sustainability, and this extends to its watch bands. The new FineWoven band, crafted from 68 percent post-consumer recycled content, offers a luxurious yet eco-friendly alternative to traditional leather bands. Apple has also revamped its Sport Loop band, now featuring 82 percent recycled yarn. Additionally, collaborations with Nike and Hermès have produced more environmentally friendly band collections.
Pricing and Availability
Customers in numerous countries, including the U.S., can place orders for the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch SE starting today, with in-store availability commencing on September 22. The Series 9 starts at $399, while the SE begins at $249. Apple Watch bands and accessories are also available for purchase.
watchOS 10 Release
The highly anticipated watchOS 10 update will be available on September 18 for Apple Watch Series 4 and later, requiring an iPhone XS or later running iOS 17. It’s important to note that not all features may be available in all regions or on all devices.
Apple’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and user experience shines brightly with the introduction of the Apple Watch Series 9. This latest offering sets a new standard for wearable technology and reinforces Apple’s dedication to creating products that users love while protecting the planet.