Apple Previews watchOS 4: More Watch Faces, Intelligence, Fitness Features

At WWDC today, Apple previewed watchOS 4, set to release this fall. The major features include new watch faces, better Siri intelligence and also more fitness features.

“Apple Watch is the ultimate device for a healthy life and is now more intelligent than ever with watchOS 4,” said Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer. “We’ve created a truly individualized experience with the smartest Activity and Workout apps, the Siri watch face that shows you the information you need when you need it and we’re seamlessly bringing users their favorite music right on the wrist.”

A new Siri watch face dynamically provides updates throughout the day based on data from apps such as Activity, Alarms, Breathe, Calendar, Maps, Reminders and Wallet, plus based on the time of day and your routines.

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The Activity app now also bring better intelligent coaching and tips on closing your activity rings. For example, near the end of the day, users will be provided a notification on how far they need to walk to close their rings before the day’s end, with the latter also getting new completion animations. Also new are monthly challenges tailored to each Apple Watch user.

The Music app now also automatically syncs with your New Music Mix and most listened to music.

The revamped Workout app now has auto-sets for pool swims, along with a new High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workout, powered by new motion and heart rate algorithms. The workout app also allows for quick switching in a single workout to another activity, targeting triathletes and those doing back-to-back workouts. Also, during workouts, there is an option which will enable Do Not Disturb by default.

Apple also introduced GymKit, which will let Apple Watch users sync data with gym equipment such as treadmills, ellipticals, indoor bikes or stair steppers from leading gym equipment makers. This means you’ll be able to have accurate measurements on exercise machines synced to Apple Watch.

New watch faces are also available, such as a kaleidoscope, plus Toy Story faces featuring Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear.

The first watchOS 4 beta is available now, with a public beta release later this month and the final release the fall with iOS 11.

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