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Why You Can Trust CNET WatchOS 7 has arrived. Here's how to get the Apple Watch update
Find out if your Apple Watch is compatible with WatchOS 7, and how to upgrade.
WatchOS 7 is available to download Wednesday, with new watch faces and complications.
Apple 's latest wearable operating system WatchOS 7 has arrived on the Apple Watch , following an announcement at the tech giant's annual event in September. Also announced at Apple's "Time Flies" event were two new smartwatch models, the Apple Watch Series 6 and the more affordable Apple Watch SE. Originally revealed during its WWDC keynote earlier this summer, the WatchOS 7 update has been available as a public beta since August. Its new features include four new workouts within its Workout app, the ability to use Siri to translate several languages directly from your wrist, an automatic motion-sensitive hand-washing timer, expanded and sharable Watch face options from third-party developers, and a sleep tracker that lets you know when it's time to wind down for your best rest.
A new expansion of the Noise app's alert system -- which already pings users when it detects ambient noise levels that could affect hearing loss -- will now alert you when you're listening to audio through your headphones from either your iPhone , iPod or Apple Watch. A new set of mobility metrics will also be available through a six-minute walk test function, powered by advanced algorithms and Watch's motion-sensing accelerometer and gyroscope.
The Apple Watch has come a long way from its launch in 2015, when it was initially touted as a luxury item complete with a $10,000 gold variant called the Apple Watch Edition . But over the last few years, Apple has touted the Watch as a health device, tracking wearers' steps and activity. Apple has added health-related features such as an ECG heart monitor, sync technology for gym equipment and a meditation app.
Here's everything you need to know about downloading WatchOS 7, and which devices are compatible with the new system.
Which devices can I download WatchOS 7 on?
According to Apple, WatchOS 7 requires an iPhone 6s or later, with iOS 14 , which is also available now (learn how to download iOS 14 here). You'll also need one of the following Apple Watch models:
- Apple Watch Series 3
- Apple Watch Series 4
- Apple Watch Series 5
- Apple Watch Series 6 (available Sept. 18)
- Apple Watch SE (available Sept. 18)
If you purchase an Apple Watch Series 6 or SE, WatchOS 7 will be included on the device. Not all features are available on all devices, Apple noted.
How do I update to WatchOS 7?
Watch wearers can upgrade their OS by using their iPhone. When a new update is available, your Apple Watch will notify you. Tap Update Tonight in the notification, and then go to your iPhone to confirm. Leave your Apple Watch and iPhone charging overnight and the update will complete.
Or you can check for the update manually, since WatchOS 7 is already available. To do this, on your iPhone, open the Apple Watch app and tap the My Watch tab. Tap General > Software Update. Download the update, and enter your passcode if prompted. Wait for the progress wheel to appear -- it could take several minutes, or up to an hour for the update to complete.
For more, check out all the Apple Watch tricks in WatchOS 7, and three WatchOS 7 features that'll forever change the way you use your Apple Watch.
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Apple Watch 9 Feature Comparison vs. the Series 8, Series 7 and Series 6
Here's everything in Apple's new mainline watch and what it has to offer versus the Apple Watches of years past.
The Apple Watch Series 9.
At its Wonderlust fall 2023 devices event, Apple launched the Apple Watch Series 9, its newest model in its smartwatch line. While it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of the super-premium Apple Watch Ultra 2, also announced at the event, the Series 9 improved on several features of its predecessors. Here's how the Apple Watch Series 9 ranks versus the Series 8, Series 7 and Series 6 watches.
At the moment, Apple has temporarily stopped selling its Series 9 watches in the US amid an ongoing legal battle with health tech company Masimo over patent infringements. You can still buy it from other retailers, or from Apple outside the US, and existing Series 9 watches should continue to function normally. Read our guide on the issue for more information.
The Series 9 looks like the Apple Watches that came before -- a rectangular watch with a large screen and digital crown on the right side with a button just below it. It uses 20mm interchangeable watch bands, just like its predecessors.
But since the Apple Watch Series 6 was released in late 2020, Apple's smartwatches have gotten slightly larger and displays have gotten bigger. The wearables have added health-tracking features, new perks and faster processors, too.
The Series 6 introduced an SPo2 sensor for tracking blood oxygen, which is a key indicator of sleep quality, as lower levels could indicate conditions like sleep apnea that deplete rest (and if untreated, could be dangerous). The Series 6 inherited the always-on display from the Series 5, which is a neat but battery-sapping feature that set the stage for Apple Watches to come. Despite more hardware and software efficiency in later watches, new features have led every Apple smartwatch to maintain a steady single-day battery life that needs recharging before bed.
The Series 7 that launched in 2021 slightly bumped up the sizes offered to 41mm and 45mm, up from 40mm and 44mm in its predecessor. Paired with slimmer bezels, the Series 7 had a noticeably expanded screen size enough to fit a full QWERTY keyboard. The Series 7 also added fast charging, which Apple says can recharge a watch from a dead battery to 80 percent in around 45 minutes.
The Series 8 arrived in 2022 with a skin temperature sensor, a new health feature that measured overnight deviations from a temperature baseline to potentially detect changes in ovulation or menstruation. While more health data is nice, the Series 8 doesn't give much guidance on what the skin temperature variations mean, CNET Senior Editor Lisa Eadicicco found, as opposed to the more helpful "readiness score" found in the temperature-sensing Oura ring smart wearable.
Read more: I was a Superman for a week, according to my Apple Watch
Apple's brand-new smartwatch, the Series 9, packs a handful of new features that build on its predecessors, but also look forward to a new era of Apple devices. Conventionally, the new S9 chip enables new perks, namely on-device processing for Siri so users can get query answers even when offline. A new second-generation ultra-wideband chip on the smartwatch will also allow it to find nearby missing iPhones by pointing the way and sending vibrations and audible chirps when users are close.
The big new feature is Double Tap, which interacts with the watch through gesture control, no screen touching required. The Series 9 recognizes when the wearer taps their index finger and thumb together twice, which takes the place of a primary button in an application -- use it to answer calls, pause or play music, snooze an alarm and more.
The actual science is pretty cool, as the Series 9 actually detects the movements and changes in blood flow when the wearer pinches their index finger and thumb twice. The on-device neural engine uses data from several sensors to recognize this movement, including the accelerometer, gyroscope and optical heart sensor. It's a showcase for what an Apple Watch can do with its growing array of sensors.
Practically, Double Tap has another purpose, as others have pointed out: Training users to engage with gesture control in preparation for relying on it to use the upcoming Vision Pro. Users interact with Apple's AR/VR headset entirely through gestures, including a forefinger-and-thumb pinch. What better way to clue first adopters (who will likely rush out to buy a Series 9 or the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which also has Double Tap) in on Vision Pro's interface before it launches early next year?
Read more: Apple Vision Pro hands-on: Far better than I was ready for
Lastly, the Series 9 adds something else to Apple Watches, and indeed, to Apple's entire device lineup: Its first carbon-neutral product from the company. By selecting certain cases and bands made with recycled materials, and thanks to changes in using more green energy during manufacturing and lower-emission shipping options, the Series 9 watch you pick up at a store or order online can be the most sustainable Apple product you've ever bought -- and hopefully a sign of things to come for the tech giant.
Why You Can Trust CNET Best Buy Sale Knocks $100 Off Apple Watch Series 9 in Various Colors and Sizes
Apple's latest smartwatches are now available with a deep discount across multiple configurations.
Buying a new smartwatch for your iPhone generally means picking up an Apple Watch, and that's no bad thing. In fact, we consider the latest Apple Watch Series 9 to be one of the best smartwatches on the market, which makes this sale all the more impressive. Right now Best Buy will sell you one of Apple's latest models with a massive $100 discount across multiple different colors and configurations.
You can order a new Apple Watch Series 9 in the 41mm size at the retailer for just $299 and the cellular version is available for just $399 as well. Prefer your Apple Watch a little bigger? The 45mm with cellular connectivity will set you back just $429 as part of this Best Buy sale.
The Apple Watch Series 9 was released in fall 2023 and features the latest S9 chipset, the first meaningful processor change since the Apple Watch Series 6, for improved speed and power efficiency. The device also features a new Double Tap gesture that opens up some one-handed use possibilities, while also being the first model to include on-device Siri commands. Ultra Wideband capabilities and a brighter display are also on board.
Apple Watch wearers have access to a bevy of health and fitness tracking capabilities plus an App Store full of apps for streaming audio, communicating with friends and even playing games. And with Apple Pay support you can make payments on the go even if you don't have your wallet or iPhone with you.
Best Buy's current sale is slated to end Sunday, April 28, so we expect these Apple Watch savings will expire then too, so factor that into any buying decision. And for more savings on various other Apple Watch models, be sure to hit up our dedicated Apple Watch deals roundup for the latest discounts and promotions.
More shopping deals from CNET
CNET is always covering a wide array of deals on tech products and much more. Start with the hottest sales and discounts on the CNET Deals page, and check out our CNET Coupons page for current Walmart discount codes, eBay coupons, Samsung promo codes and more from hundreds of other online stores. Sign up for the CNET Deals Text to get daily deals sent straight to your phone. Add the free CNET Shopping extension to your browser for real-time price comparisons and cash-back offers. Peruse our gift guide, which includes a full range of ideas for birthdays, anniversaries and more.
Why You Can Trust CNET Best Smartwatch for 2024
We've tested some of the best smartwatches for every wrist, phone and budget.
- Webby Award honoree, 2x Gold Telly Award winner
The convenience of a good smartwatch is hard to beat. There are plenty of devices to choose from beyond the better-known options like the Apple Watch and Samsung's Galaxy Watch. The best smartwatch for you will depend on the type of phone you have, your spending limit and which health and fitness tracking features are most important to you.
Most smartwatches provide basic exercise tracking comparable to most fitness trackers. But the best ones should also include advanced features such as heart-rate monitoring, sleep tracking and GPS tracking, along with the ability to show phone notifications on your wrist. Many also support contactless payments, while others have LTE or cellular connectivity, which allow you to actually leave your phone at home.
If you're looking for the best smartwatch 2024 has to offer, read on. We've rounded up the top smartwatches you can buy right now based on function, price and compatibility. It's also worth considering the best time of year to buy a smartwatch. Apple and Samsung typically release new models in late summer and fall. You can also usually find compelling deals around shopping events like Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day.
What is the best smartwatch right now?
That depends on whether you have an iPhone or Android phone. For most iPhone users, that's the $399 Apple Watch Series 9. It has a bright display, two sizes and the option to buy an LTE version so you can leave your phone at home and still be able to take calls and messages on the watch. The $516 Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the best choice if you need a tougher watch with dedicated sports and safety features for athletes, plus an even brighter screen than the Series 9.
For Android users, the best smartwatch is the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6. It is the first watch to run the newest version of Wear OS that promises closer integration with Google apps like Gmail, improvements to overall battery life and two size options.
This list is updated periodically with new reviews of the best smartwatch options. For more buying advice, check out our guide to how to buy a smartwatch.
Read more: Best Budget Smartwatches Under $100
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is Apple's best smartwatch, with a tough titanium construction and an Action button to quickly start workouts or launch apps. It has the brightest screen of any Apple Watch at a maximum of 3,000 nits which makes it incredibly easy to see when adventuring in the great outdoors. For adventurers and athletes, it also has a built-in siren for safety and a dual-band GPS for accurately tracking your route. LTE is also onboard so you can venture out without a phone and still stay connected.
Though it's designed to be an outdoor watch, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is still a fantastic all-around smartwatch. Inside is the same S9 chip as found on the Apple Watch Series 9 which supports gestures like Double Tap and allows the watch to process Siri commands on-device. This means you can use Siri without being online and later in the year you'll be able to ask the voice assistant for health data. Like earlier Apple Watches, the Ultra 2 also comes with a blood oxygen sensor, electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) app, fall detection and emergency SOS. The battery also lasts at least twice as long as all other Apple Watch models. It's only compatible with the iPhone, so if you have an Android phone, you'll want to look at another option on this list.
The Apple Watch Series 9 might not be as adventure-focused as the Apple Watch Ultra 2, but it still features a dust- and crack-resistant design, a temperature, blood oxygen and ECG sensor and comes in 41 and 45mm sizes. You can also choose a cellular or LTE model that lets you take calls and answer messages from your wrist without your phone, although that does cost extra.
It has the S9 chip to support the Double Tap gesture so you can pinch your thumb and forefinger together to control the watch when you can't reach it with the other hand. Like the Ultra 2, the Series 9 also has on-device Siri and faster processing times than earlier Apple Watches. Battery life generally lasts 18 hours with typical use, less than many of its competitors.
Samsung's Galaxy Watch 6 is the best Android watch for most people. Both the Galaxy Watch 6 and 6 Classic have incredibly bright screens that hit a maximum 2,000 nits, so seeing your watch in all lighting conditions is easy.
All the flagship features you would expect are included: an ECG, blood oxygen, body composition and temperature sensors. Note you do need a Galaxy phone to use the ECG, but all the other features work seamlessly with other Android phones. Like the Apple Watch Series 9, you'll need to charge the Galaxy Watch 6 every day, especially if you want to track sleep.
Last year's Galaxy Watch 5 Pro remains in the lineup if you need the best battery life of any Galaxy Watch, lasting up to three days on a charge.
The Pixel Watch 2 is a beautiful-looking Android smartwatch with accurate heart rate tracking and health sensors like an ECG. It fills the gaps with many of the features we wanted in the first Pixel Watch, such as automatic workout detection. If you're familiar with Fitbit, the Pixel Watch 2 has a similar interface for logging workouts and viewing your health data. For runners, the watch can give you pace guidance and heart rate zone notifications.
Beware that the battery isn't as strong as some other options on this list, and you will likely find yourself charging this watch every day, especially if you like to do outdoor GPS workouts and track your sleep. It does charge faster than the first Pixel Watch. It's also still available only in one 41mm size.
Garmin makes plenty of great smartwatches for fitness enthusiasts, but they don't always have that many smart features. The Venu 2 hybrid smartwatch offers the best of both worlds. You can respond to notifications from the watch with quick replies, use contactless payments with Garmin Pay and store music from apps like Spotify. The bright AMOLED circular screen is easy to see outdoors and the battery lasts for 5 days or more.
The Venu 2 Plus offers all the same features but includes a speaker and microphone for taking quick calls from your wrist when your phone is in range, or talking to your voice assistant. Garmin has recently announced the Venu 3 which we will review soon and update this list accordingly.
If you've never owned an Apple Watch, this is the one to get. The second-gen Apple Watch SE is a cheaper alternative to the Series 9 but has plenty of the same great features including crash detection, heart-rate monitoring and water resistance. It misses out on health sensors like ECG, blood oxygen and temperature sensing like the Series 9, but the most notable difference between the two is that the SE doesn't have an always-on display or the Double Tap gesture.
The Versa 3 is compatible with both iOS and Android phones and lets you choose between Alexa or Google Assistant as your go-to voice assistant. It doesn't offer all the apps and smart features as some of its competitors, but it's a well-rounded smartwatch with plenty of health and fitness features to keep you on track like onboard GPS and live heart rate zone notifications. It has the best sleep tracking feature on this list and even gives you health features including a breakout of your SpO2 and body temperature data overnight (Fitbit Premium users). There's a newer version, the Fitbit Versa 4, but we haven't fully reviewed that watch yet so stay tuned.
The second-generation Garmin Epix features a tough titanium construction and a laundry list of features athletes want, including extensive mapping capabilities. It also has a bright AMOLED display which sets it apart from a multitude of other sports watches, including Garmin's own Fenix line, that often use transflective displays. The Epix 2 also has great battery life considering its size and feature set, lasting almost a week under regular conditions.
It doesn't have LTE capabilities or an ECG app. Considering this is the most expensive watch on this list at $1,000, that might be a big drawback. Garmin has a newer version of this watch called the Epix Pro, which we haven't fully reviewed yet.
Polar's Grit X Pro is an outdoor watch for adventure seekers. The rugged design can withstand the elements as it's water-resistant to 100 meters and has a sapphire glass watch face that's scratch-resistant. With onboard maps, turn-by-turn navigation and overnight recovery tools, you can determine if you're ready to take on that workout. This is much more a sports watch than a smartwatch, but it can still receive notifications from your phone and control music playback, plus it has 24/7 heart rate monitoring.
The touchscreen is less responsive than other watches on this list -- it's transflective rather than AMOLED -- but you can get away with using button controls.