Ahead of WWDC 2022, Bloomberg Journalist Mark Gurman reported, based on his own sources, that Apple was working on a new low-power mode for watchOS 9. However, WatchOS 9 was announced without any new features in this aspect. Now Gurman is back with a similar report, but this time he’s claiming that the low-power mode will be exclusive to the new Apple Watch Series 8.
In his latest A Newsletter, Gurman announced that he expects a new low-power mode later this year. However, the new low-power mode is being heralded as a feature of watchOS 9 rather than one of the new features coming with the Apple Watch Series 8 – which is likely to launch later this year.
Current Apple Watch models already have a feature called “Power Reserve Mode”. However, as detailed by 9to5Mac, this feature turns off pretty much all Apple Watch features and only shows the time to save battery life. While this works for emergencies, users will need to restart the Apple Watch to access apps and other features.
According to Gurman’s original report, the new low-power mode will allow users to continue using Apple Watch apps and features without using too much power. It should work similar to the low power mode already available in iOS and macOS, which basically suspends background activity and reduces device performance to save some battery life.
However, it’s also unclear why Apple would keep this option exclusive to the new Apple Watch model, as rumors have it that it will retain the same chip as the Apple Watch Series 7.
What to expect from the Apple Watch Series 8
Based on recent rumours, the Apple Watch Series 8 will be a minor upgrade compared to the current Series 7. Aside from sharing the same internal specs as the Apple Watch Series 7, which is already based on the Series 6 despite the larger screen, the Series 8 is expected to feature the same current design, with 41mm and 45mm versions to maintain.
However, Apple is also reportedly working on a “rugged edition” of the Apple Watch Series 8 geared towards extreme sports. The company may also unveil an updated Apple Watch SE, still based on the design of the Apple Watch Series 6 with larger bezels, but this time with the same processor as the Series 8.
Since hardware upgrades will be minimal this year, it’s not surprising if Apple keeps some software features exclusive to new Apple Watch models to boost sales.
watchOS 9
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<p>watchOS 9 brings incremental updates to the Apple Watch operating system. The update includes several new watch faces, an improved workout app with more data, a new medication reminders app, improved sleep tracking, and a full podcasts app.</p>
<p>Apple Watch Series 4 and later users can upgrade to watchOS 9 this fall. Developers can try the watchOS 9 beta now, while the first public beta will be available in July.</p>
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