watchOS 10 promises to be a pretty significant update for Apple Watch owners. The system has received a number of improvements and new features.

watchOS 10: widgets return, new features for cycling and hiking

WatchOS 10 uses a new design approach aimed at providing the user with more useful information. Dynamic stack widgets are back on smartwatches. This is a pre-created collection of widgets that displays the desired widget according to your location, time, or actions. You can switch between widgets using the Digital Crown.

A number of apps now utilize the larger display area of the Apple Watch to showcase information better and/or in more detail. Third-party developers can also use Apple’s new design approach in their apps. For example, the NBA app will show team colors and provide more information on the watch screen.

watchOS 10: widgets return, new features for cycling and hiking

You can now open Control Center from the side button on top of any application. And double-clicking on the Digital Crown will return you to your previously launched apps.

watchOS 10: widgets return, new features for cycling and hiking

WatchOS 10 received two new watch faces. The Palette uses several color shades that change according to the movement of the hands. Another watch face is dedicated to Snoopy, who, together with Woodstock, can react to weather changes or even to the fact that you have started a workout.

Cyclists will appreciate watchOS 10, as the system has added new metrics to measure their activity, and the smartwatch can now automatically connect to Bluetooth accessories such as power meters, speed sensors, and cadence sensors. In addition, when the user starts a workout on the Apple Watch, it will automatically appear on the iPhone screen as a Live Activity that can be opened in full screen. This makes it easier to keep track of your progress when your smartphone is attached to the steering wheel.

watchOS 10: widgets return, new features for cycling and hiking

The Compass application will now generate two new types of waypoints. Last Cellular Connection Waypoint will show the approximate location where you last had mobile Internet connection, in case you need to make a call or check your messages. Last Emergency Call Waypoint is the location where a mobile network was last seen, so you can make an emergency call at approximately that location.

watchOS 10: widgets return, new features for cycling and hiking

There is also a 3D view of the height of route points. And in the US, Apple Maps will showcase new topographic maps with contour lines and other details.
The Mindfulness app now allows you to record your mood and emotions. And in the Health app, you can see valuable tips about your state of mind. In addition, Apple Watch will be able to count how much time children spend outside using a light sensor. And Screen Distance will use the TrueDepth Face ID camera in iPhone and iPad to monitor whether you are holding the screen too close to your eyes. And if the gadget is less than 30 cm from your eyes for a certain period of time, you will receive a notification.

The watchOS 10 beta will be available to developers today. The public beta will be available in July, and the stable version will be released in the fall. The update can be installed on Apple Watch Series 4 or later, which are paired with iPhone Xs or later with iOS 17 installed.