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Table of Contents
The Biggest User Interface Update for Apple WatchOS 10
Introduction
Since its launch, the Apple Watch has become a popular wearable device, and with the release of WatchOS 10, Apple has introduced the biggest user interface update yet. In this article, we will explore the top features of WatchOS 10, providing a comprehensive guide on how to make the most of them. From the Smart Stack to new look watch apps, we will cover everything you need to know to enhance your Apple Watch experience.
01 – The Smart Stack: Accessing Content Made Easier
One of the most noticeable changes in WatchOS 10 is the introduction of the Smart Stack. Previously, accessing specific apps or complications required navigating through the Watch Face. Now, with WatchOS 10, you can simply turn the Digital Crown upwards to enter the Smart Stack.
The Smart Stack is designed to provide snippets of information that you may need at a glance, without having to open full apps. For example, the weather widget can display the current weather conditions and forecast without the need to open the weather app. To customize your Smart Stack, you can tap and hold on a widget to bring up the edit view. From there, you can remove, change, or pin widgets to prioritize the information you’re most interested in.
02 – New Look Watch Apps: Enhanced User Experience
WatchOS 10 brings a fresh look to many of the built-in watch apps. Apple has redesigned these apps to provide a more immersive and intuitive experience. For instance, the Sleep app now offers rich and detailed information that can be scrolled through, while the Weather app presents clear and easy-to-view information on each page.
Activity, the app for tracking fitness goals, now provides full-screen information for each of the different rings, allowing you to delve deeper into your fitness data right from your Apple Watch. Additionally, the Mindfulness app introduces a new feature called State of Mind, which we will explore in detail later.
03 – Side Button for Control Centre: Easy Access
In previous versions of WatchOS, accessing the Control Centre required swiping up on the screen. With WatchOS 10, Apple has made it even simpler by assigning the Control Centre to the side button. Now, you can just tap the side button once to access the Control Centre and tap again to close it. This new method provides a more deliberate and efficient way to access important settings and features.
04 – Cycling & Hiking: Improved Activity Tracking
WatchOS 10 brings enhancements to the Cycling and Hiking activities on your Apple Watch. For cycling, the update allows compatibility with Bluetooth accessories, such as cadence and power meters, enabling you to track additional metrics during your workouts.
In terms of hiking, the compass now offers a 3D view, making it easier to set waypoints while walking. This feature proves especially useful when you need to navigate back to specific locations later on.
05 – Mental Health: Tracking Your State of Mind
Apple has made significant improvements in mental health tracking across its devices, and WatchOS 10 extends this feature to the Apple Watch. In the Mindfulness app, you’ll find a new option called State of Mind. By tapping on State of Mind, you can log how you’re feeling in the moment or overall.
Using the Digital Crown, you can scroll through the available options and tap the tick when you’re satisfied with your choice. This feature allows you to track your mood and gain valuable insights over time. Your Apple Watch can even remind you twice daily to pause and reflect on your state of mind, helping you develop a greater awareness of your mental well-being.
06 – Offline Maps: Navigating Without Data
While the Offline Maps feature technically debuted on the iPhone, it greatly benefits Apple Watch owners as well. With WatchOS 10, you can download maps directly to your Watch, ensuring you have access to them even when your iPhone is not connected to the internet.
To download offline maps on your Watch, open the Maps app, tap on your Apple ID, and select Offline Maps. From there, you can search for a specific location and choose how much of the map you want to download. When you’re in an area covered by the downloaded map, you won’t need data to view and navigate the map on your Watch. This feature is particularly useful in areas with poor data signal.
07 – Missed FaceTime Videos on Watch: Convenient Playback
A convenient feature introduced in WatchOS 10 is the ability to view missed FaceTime videos directly on your Apple Watch. When someone leaves you a video message, you can access it through the Phone app by selecting Voicemail. From there, you can tap on the voicemail from the missed call and press play to watch the video.
Conclusion
With WatchOS 10, Apple has revolutionized the user interface of the Apple Watch. The introduction of the Smart Stack, improved watch apps, simplified access to the Control Centre, enhanced activity tracking, mental health monitoring, offline maps, and FaceTime video playback all contribute to a more seamless and enjoyable user experience. Whether you’re a long-time Apple Watch user or new to the device, WatchOS 10 offers exciting new features that will enhance the way you interact with your wearable device. So, don’t hesitate to update your Apple Watch and start exploring the possibilities of WatchOS 10 today!