September 7, 2022, 7:42 pm | Read time: 6 minutes
At its September event, Apple also introduced a new generation of its smart watch. The Apple Watch Series 8 comes with several innovations.
After the Apple Watch Series 7 brought only superficial changes, this year there are some notable innovations in the smartwatch. Unlike the past two years, the Apple Keynote 2022 was held again with a live audience. However, it could also be followed online. The keynote was themed “Far out,” which refers to the camera of the new iPhone 14. But the theme also applies to the Apple Watch 8.
Here you can read the entire keynote as a live ticker!
Overview
Apple Watch 8 and Watch SE 2 Introduced
As diagnosed by Mark Gurman (via “Bloomberg“) ahead of the event, Apple has now introduced two subsequent Apple Watch models: the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch SE 2. The presentation of smartwatches concluded with the entirely new model, Watch Ultra.
Most of the rumors about the smart watches have indeed come true: new sensors and features, but little new in the built-in chip. Fortunately, the standard Apple Watch Series 8 also features the new sensors. Most speculations assumed that only the Ultra version would be equipped with the latest features.
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The Apple Watch Series 8
Design and Colors
Compared to its predecessor, there were no major visual changes to the Apple Watch 8. The simple, rounded-corner design remains almost unchanged. The rumors of a more angular look have not been confirmed. The Always-On Retina display is said to be even more robust with its shatterproof front glass. The aluminum or stainless steel case is available in two sizes: 41 and 45 mm.
The Apple Watch Series 8 is available in the aluminum version in four colors: Starlight, Midnight, Silver, and Red. The stainless steel variant, on the other hand, comes in Silver, Graphite, and Gold. The Nike and Hermès lines are also releasing new bands and watch faces for the new watch this fall.
New Temperature Sensors
The two temperature sensors built into the new Apple Watch are certainly noteworthy. One is located on the underside of the case, closest to the skin. The other is under the display to capture temperature changes in the immediate environment. This is intended to prevent distortion of the measurement by external conditions.
With the help of the new sensors, the Apple Watch Series 8 can measure the temperature during sleep approximately every five seconds. The smartwatch registers changes from a fluctuation of 0.1 degrees Celsius. Users can then evaluate their nightly body temperature retrospectively via the iPhone and Apple’s Health app.
Temperature measurements are also quite interesting for women and the cycle tracking that has existed at Apple for three years. Retrospective estimates of ovulation can be made based on changes in body temperature. This is intended to provide a more comprehensive view of the female cycle and help better understand one’s body. It can also assist with potential family planning. Additionally, users can be informed about any cycle deviations.
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Crash Detection
In addition to the temperature sensors, there are others for collision detection. This is made possible by a so-called gyroscope to determine the exact position and an accelerometer. The goal is to automatically detect an accident and call for help if the wearer of the Apple Watch Series 8 is no longer able to do so.
Numerous motion data from real accidents were evaluated for this purpose. In addition to the mentioned sensors, the barometer, GPS, and the smartwatch’s microphone are also used to prevent false alarms. However, if the Apple Watch detects a crash based on the collected data, it informs the wearer; if there is no response, emergency services are notified, as well as the stored emergency contact. The location is also shared with the recipients.
How does a smartwatch actually measure all these values? The answer is in the video:
Low-Power Mode and International Roaming
The Apple Watch Series 8 also comes with a useful new mode that allows you to save energy. According to Apple, the smartwatch runs for a full 36 hours before needing to be recharged. To achieve this, the new Apple Watch deactivates or limits less important functions, such as the Always-On display or automatic workout start.
This fall, international roaming will also be introduced via WatchOS 9. This will allow Apple Watch users to connect to the mobile network abroad. By the end of the year, a partnership with over 30 network operators is expected, so that only a small, if any, fee will be charged to users.
With watchOS 9, Apple has already provided a preview of the upcoming firmware for its smartwatch. At the same time, numerous new features were revealed. You can find out what they are here:
watchOS 9 brings numerous new possibilities to the Apple Watch
Price and Availability
The Apple Watch 8 is available for order immediately in the U.S., where it costs $399, and the LTE version is priced at $499. Pre-orders also start now in Germany, and the smartwatch will be available from September 16. However, prices in Germany are unfortunately not the same as in the U.S. The base version costs 499 euros, and the LTE update is even 619 euros.
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Apple Watch SE (2022)
The Watch SE is the entry-level model of Apple smartwatches. Probably for this reason, there are few innovations for the smart watch this year. At least the crash detection is also included in the SE model. Additionally, thanks to the current S8 processor, the watch is expected to come with a 20 percent speed increase.
For the reduced functions, there is also a lower price. In the U.S., the Apple Watch SE (2022) costs $249 or $299. In Germany, Apple charges 299 and 339 euros, depending on the size (20 and 44 mm). Pre-orders can be made from September 9, and the smartwatch will be available from September 16. The color options are Silver, Midnight, and Starlight.