Apple Watch Series 9: powerful S9 processor, new Double Tap gesture and a pink colourway for Barbie fans
Apple decided to start today's presentation with the announcement of its new Apple Watch Series 9.
Here's What We've Seen
One of the major updates was the S9 chip. Apple hasn't updated the watch's processor since 2020, when the Series 6 model debuted. As Apple claims, the chip has 60 per cent more transistors and is 30 per cent faster than the S8. It also has a 4-core Neural Engine, which allows it to perform machine learning tasks twice as fast, and an updated second-generation ultra-wideband (UWB) chip that enables accurate search for your smartphone and other nearby gadgets.
For the first time on Apple Watch, Siri queries can be handled directly on the watch. But this only applies to queries that don't require an internet connection - like starting a workout or setting a timer.
Also thanks to the S9, the maximum brightness of the display has increased to up to 2,000 nits. That's double the brightness of the Series 8. You can reduce the brightness down to 1 nits if you need to.
An interesting feature of the Apple Watch Series 9 is the Double Tap feature. It's a double-tap gesture with your index finger and thumb that triggers certain tasks: accepting or cancelling a phone call, taking a photo from your smartphone camera, turning off the alarm clock, etc. So you don't need to touch the watch screen or case - just double-tap your fingers together. To do this, the Neural Engine processes data from the accelerometer, gyroscope and optical heart sensor using a new machine learning algorithm. It detects signs of tiny wrist movements and changes in blood flow when the index finger and thumb perform a double tap. The Double Tap feature will be available in a software update next month.
Of course, Apple has paid separate attention to environmental issues. The company has abandoned leather straps and changed the Apple Watch's packaging - it's now made of 100% fibre, and a new logo on the packaging indicates carbon neutral models. The FineWoven strap is made from a fabric that is 68 per cent recycled material. The Sport Loop strap has also been updated and is now made of 82 per cent recycled yarn. In addition, Apple is not stopping its collaboration with Nike and Hermès, only now the straps created with these companies are more eco-friendly.
The Apple Watch Series 9 is priced from $399. The watch is available in 41mm and 45mm sizes in Starlight, Midnight, Silver, (PRODUCT)RED and new pink with an aluminium case, as well as a stainless steel case in gold, silver and graphite. Pre-order acceptance starts today and the new model will go on sale on 22 September.
Source: Apple
