During WWDC 2022, Apple took to the stage and announced a host of new products and software updates. Amongst them was watchOS 9, the latest iteration of the Apple Watch operating system. There were multiple features that Apple added to it, adding to the user experience of existing and new Apple watch users.
One of the highlights was the addition of new watch faces with the added ability to display more information and allow for more personalisation opportunities. The Workout app also saw an update. There was the addition of advanced metrics and other utilitarian features which according to Apple, were “inspired by high-performing athletes”. watchOS 9 would bring to the table, a set of new features for runners who use the Apple Watch for tracking their performance, including the likes of Stride Length, Ground Contact Time, and Vertical Oscillation.
Apple’s chief operating officer, Jeff Williams commented on these upgrades and said, “Users around the world love Apple Watch for helping them stay connected to those they love, be more active throughout the day, and better manage their health.” For the swimmers using the Apple Watch, there was the addition of kickboard detection. Different types of sleep stages were also added to make sleep tracking using the Apple Watch even better. The three categories in which tracked sleep would be categorised would be, REM, Core, or Deep sleep.
The Medications feature also saw many improvements, with Apple claiming to have added the ability to create custom schedules. New APIs were also introduced, which means that your favourite apps could have new updates incoming. This means that the announcements made by Apple themselves are not it. In the coming months, you can expect a host of new features to be added to your watch. So keep an eye out for any updates.
Before we begin, one prerequisite is that you back up your Apple Watch. And during the process, ensure the watch has at least 50% battery life and is kept close to your iPhone.
Here we go then,
1. On your iPhone (running iOS 16), visit the developer.Apple.com website and sign in.
2. From the side menu choose ‘Downloads’.
3. Tap on ‘Allow’ to download the beta profile.
4. Once it's installed, hit on ‘Install’ agree to terms and conditions and enter the passcode on your Apple Watch.
5. Reboot your Apple Watch if prompted.
6. Once you boot to the Apple Watch Home Screen, go to Apple Watch app > General > Software Update.
7. Tap on ‘Download and Install’.
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