Apple Watch Series 9 Price, Review and Specifications

Apple’s much-anticipated Apple Watch Series 9 has finally arrived, and it brings a host of exciting new features to the table. After a series of incremental updates, the Series 9 offers a genuinely game-changing feature in the form of Double Tap, sure to make waves when it becomes available later this year. In our hands-on experience, it proved to be a delightful addition to the watch’s functionality.

In addition to Double Tap, the Series 9 boasts a brighter screen and on-device Siri. These enhancements not only improve user experience but also ensure that health queries are processed securely. While the Series 9 doesn’t bring revolutionary changes across the board, it remains the top choice for most consumers in the Apple Watch lineup. The only exceptions are for those on a tight budget, who might opt for the Apple Watch SE 2, or those seeking a premium model like the Ultra 2.

One noteworthy aspect of the Series 9 is its commitment to eco-friendliness, with a focus on using recycled materials and introducing Ultra Wideband radio technology. The latter promises enhanced Find Devices functionality, thanks to a stronger connection and increased accuracy. However, it’s currently available exclusively for Series 9 and iPhone 15. As more devices adopt this technology, it’s expected to become more widely used.

The Series 9 provides a glimpse into Apple’s future ambitions, with a carbon-neutral approach to manufacturing and a growing ecosystem of Ultra Wideband-connected devices. It’s poised to take advantage of future features designed for Ultra Wideband-compatible devices, likely to be introduced with watchOS 11 and beyond.

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While innovation is a strong suit, the Series 9 retains some familiar characteristics, such as the 18-hour battery life, identical sizes, operating system, and design seen in its predecessors. This leads to the conclusion that, as is often the case, the update is iterative in many aspects. For those who already own the Apple Watch Series 8 or Series 7, the need for an upgrade may not be pressing.

Apple Watch Series 9: Features

• Introduces the Double Tap feature
• Utilizes Ultra Wideband technology for improved functionality
• On-device Siri for enhanced privacy

The standout feature of the Series 9 is Double Tap, a gesture-based innovation that promises to enhance the user experience. It uses sensors to detect intentional movements, allowing for a range of actions directly from the watch face. Additionally, the integration of Ultra Wideband technology brings improved Find Devices functionality, offering precise tracking and distance information. On-device Siri is a privacy-conscious addition, allowing users to access health data without concerns about data sharing.

Apple Watch Series 9: Design

• Utilizes recycled materials
• Similar design to previous models
• Introduces new bands and Pink aluminum case option

The Series 9 adheres to the established design language of Apple Watches, with minimal changes to the overall form factor. Its simplicity and ease of use remain hallmarks of the device, ensuring a smooth transition for both newcomers and existing Apple Watch users. The Series 9’s commitment to eco-friendliness is commendable, with the use of recycled materials and innovative band designs, such as the sport loop made from recycled yarn.

Apple Watch Series 9: Performance

• Offers seamless day-to-day usage
• Brightest screen setting may be unnecessary for most
• Battery life remains similar to previous models

In terms of day-to-day usage, the Apple Watch Series 9 impresses with its smooth navigation and improved widget stack. The new Smart Stack feature enhances the user experience, providing quick access to relevant information. While the Double Tap feature was not yet available for testing at the time of the review, the existing features performed as expected. Siri is noticeably snappier, making everyday tasks more intuitive and efficient.

For fitness enthusiasts, the Apple Watch Series 9 offers tracking capabilities similar to previous models, with the addition of GPS, heart rate monitoring, and more. The Retina Display screen’s brightness, even on sunny days, eliminates the need to constantly adjust settings. However, the watch’s battery life remains at approximately 18 hours, which may require daily charging.

Apple Watch Series 9: Price and Availability

• Starting at $399 / £399 / AU$649 with an aluminum case
• Available in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm, with LTE options
• Stainless steel case options also available

The Apple Watch Series 9 was announced during Apple’s September event and is now available for purchase, starting at $399 for the 41mm model with an aluminum case and GPS connectivity. Additional features, such as LTE connectivity or a stainless steel case, come at a premium, offering a range of options to cater to different preferences.

Apple Watch Series 9: Should You Buy?

Buy it if:

• You own an older Apple Watch and want to enjoy cumulative upgrades.
• You prefer hands-free operation, as the faster Siri and Double Tap feature enhance convenience.
• Data privacy is a priority, as the on-device Siri keeps health data secure.

Don’t buy it if:

• You already own a recent Apple Watch, as there are limited new features.
• You’re an Android user, as Apple’s ecosystem works best when used across all devices.
• You need a rugged, outdoor-focused watch, in which case the Apple Watch Ultra 2 might be a better fit.

In conclusion, the Apple Watch Series 9 introduces significant enhancements, most notably the Double Tap function, Ultra Wideband technology, and on-device Siri. While it retains the basic features of prior Apple Watches, its environmentally friendly approach and commitment to customer privacy make it a viable challenger in the wearable tech industry. The Series 9 is a convincing pick if you’re searching for a dependable, feature-rich smartwatch with a focus on sustainability and data protection.

Key Specs

Display:

• 1.9-inch OLED display

Processor:

• S9 SiP

Health Sensors:

• Temperature sensor
• Blood oxygen sensor
• Electrical heart sensor
• Third-generation optical heart sensor

Other Sensors:

• Altimeter
• Gyroscope
• Accelerometer
• Ambient light sensor

Connectivity:

• WiFi
• Bluetooth
• GPS
• Cellular (optional)

Battery Life:

• Up to 18 hours

Compatibility:

• iPhone 8 or later with iOS 16 or later

Additional Features:

• Always-On Retina display
• Digital Crown with haptic feedback
• Side button
• Double tap gesture
• On-Device Siri
• Third-party apps
• Emergency SOS
• International emergency calling
• Fall detection
• Noise app
• Heart rate notifications
• Irregular rhythm notifications
• Sleep stages
• Menstrual cycle tracking
• Compass
• Walkie-Talkie
• Apple Pay
• Music playback
• App Store

Case Materials:

• Aluminum
• Stainless steel

Case Sizes:

• 41mm
• 45mm