Apple today announced the latest version of its Apple Watch operating system, watchOS 8. From the onset, watchOS 8 doesn't have any major standout features. Instead, it iterates on the Apple Watch's core functionality with a whole host of smaller improvements.
The closest thing to a big new feature in watchOS 8 is Reflect, a wellness feature that lives alongside Breathe in the new Mindfulness app. Instead of asking you to breathe for a minute when you get stressed - such as when you've been up since 2.45am writing about Apple software updates - the Reflect functionality will instead give you prompts like "think about something you love to do why it brings you joy". The answer is wine, obviously.
Other new bits and bobs tend to improve on existing functionality. For example, your Apple Watch will be able to monitor your respiratory rate while you're sleeping (if you're using it as a sleep tracker). This tends to be a rather consistent metric, so you'll be notified if there's a change as it could be reflective of a broader health issue.
The workout app will now support Tai Chi and Pilates, there's a new Portraits watch face that can use depth data to create a layered effect, a Find Items app will be available, and the messaging pane has been redesigned to support scribble, voice, and emojis from the same interface. You'll also be able to use your Watch to send GIF replies.
Most importantly, watchOS 8 will finally let you set multiple timers at once. Praise Tim.
We expect to see watchOS 8 drop in September this year, with a developer beta available from today. A public beta will be available in July. watchOS 8 will run on every Apple Watch compatible with watchOS 7; the Apple Watch 3 and up.
watchOS 8 was announced alongside iOS 15 and iPadOS 15.
Alex Choros
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