Apple Watch owners (at least those with Apple Watch Series 4 or later) are about to get a bunch of new features now that watchOS 9.2 is out and available for download.
The free update to the latest version of Apple’s wearable operating system includes a ton of new content, including updated workout algorithms, patches for several existing bugs, and access to one of our best tools for runners, cyclists, and wheelchair athletes New Race Route tool Apple Watch entry. We’ll show you how to get the new features later, but first, let’s go over the list of available features.
The Race Route tool is Garmin’s Pace Pro tool in the watchOS9.2 version, or the “ghost” character of Mario Kart, which can replicate your previous performance on the track and let you race against previous time. This allows you to compete with previous performances in your choice of outdoor run, outdoor bike and outdoor wheelchair workouts.
why do you want this Well, if you’re training for an event, this is a great way to keep yourself on the same course every time, because your watch will give you regular updates if you’re behind or ahead of your last time.let us forward!
There’s also a new custom kickboxing algorithm in the workout app for “more accurate metrics.” Kickboxing was previously lumped in with “other” cardio workout types in the Apple Watch’s workout profiles, and was measured using the same basic language as other disciplines: heart rate, calories burned, etc. As a former kickboxer, I’m curious to see if the new update includes specialized metrics for bag training or even grappling training, such as the ability to distinguish “rounds.” I’ll test it out as soon as possible.
Along with many other patches and fixes, it’s nice that your Apple Watch will stop bothering you with notifications during mindfulness classes.The full list of changes can be found below, as shown above Apple.com (opens in a new tab):
- Race routes let you compare your previous times and paces when choosing between outdoor runs, outdoor bikes, and outdoor wheelchair workouts.
- The Taekwondo algorithm in the Workout app is said to provide “more accurate” metrics.
- The first-generation AirPods Pro and AirPods Max can now use the Noise app to display ambient sound levels when using Active Noise Cancellation.
- Home Setup users can be invited to use the Home app to control HomePod speakers, use the home key in Wallet to unlock doors, and use accessories.
- Accessibility support allows the hard of hearing to visualize when Siren is used on Apple Watch Ultra.
- AssistiveTouch and Quick Action gesture controls improve accuracy and improve response time.
- Crash detection has been further optimized to support Apple Watch (Apple Watch Ultra, Apple Watch Series 8, and Apple Watch SE 2).
- Fixed a bug that displayed the wrong watch time immediately after dismissing an alarm in Sleep Focus Fixed a bug that caused mindfulness sessions to be interrupted
How to get the watchOS9.2 update on your Apple Watch
First, you need iOS 16.2 or later installed on your iPhone, and an Apple Watch that supports watchOS9. This will be most people, but for clarity, you need one of the following models for this to work:
- Apple Watch Series 4
- Apple Watch Series 5
- Apple WatchSE
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch Series 7
- Apple Watch Series 8
- Apple Watch Ultra
Make sure your Apple Watch is charged to 50% or more, then go to the Apple Watch app on your iPhone to start the update. Choose My Watch > General > Software Update to install it. Alternatively, if your watch is connected to WiFi, you can update it directly on the watch by navigating Settings > General > Software Update.
The running metrics on the Apple Watch are excellent, especially with watchOS9 offering features like on-wrist running power that are usually only available with heart rate monitors on other watches. However, at the time of writing, only the Apple Watch Ultra made it to our list of the best running watches of all time.
