Apple launches watchOS 8 with new health tracking features

During last night’s WWDC 2021 event, Apple launched watchOS 8, the latest version of the operating system for Apple Watch. The developer beta will launch today, the public beta for users will be released in July, and the official release will be available this fall.

With watchOS 8, Apple released a new app called Mindfulness, an extension of the Breathe app that helps you practice breathing. Mindfulness app is like a form of meditation, with instructions and images to help you relax or reduce stress.

The Fitness app adds new types of exercises, like tai chi and pilates. The Apple Watch’s Health app will monitor your respiratory rate while you sleep and notify you if anything is out of the ordinary.

watchOS 8 allows users to choose a new watch face using a portrait photo taken by an iPhone, and you can add information to track. Apple says that users will have more ability to customize watch faces.

The Photos app also gets an upgrade and a new layout, with the ability to share photos directly through the Messages app or Apple Mail. The options for replying to messages have also been updated to be richer.

Apple says users can already use the Apple Watch Series 6 to replace car keys, using UWB frequencies. Users can also use Apple Watch to find other devices, like AirTags.

Many native apps on Apple Watch will be able to use the always-on display feature, including Maps, Mindfulness, Now Playing, Phone, Podcasts, Stopwatch, Timers, and Voice Memos. Apple also provides an API so that 3rd party apps can also use the always-on display.

Finally, you’ll be able to set multiple timers simultaneously on your Apple Watch and give them their own names. A very useful upgrade.

Apple says that watchOS 8 will be able to update Apple Watch Series 3 and later.

Reference: theverge