What Can Be Done With Apple Watch?
These lesser known updates to watchOS 9 continue to make the experience even better. Whether you use Low Power Mode, enjoy the revamped Compass app or create more language options on your keyboard. So, what are these unknown features? Let's examine it together.
1. Apple Watch Low Power Mode
While Apple has improved the overall hardware and software experience with each generation, battery life has always remained the same at 18 hours of use before recharging. But the new Low Power Mode in watchOS 9 changes that.
With the feature turned on and your iPhone nearby, you can get up to 36 hours of use. To open Low Power Mode, swipe up to see Control Center. Select the battery percentage and then switch to Low Power Mode.
Starting in late 2022, Low Power Mode will come to the Apple Watch Ultra, providing up to 60 hours of use. That's almost double the 36 hours of use in normal mode.
2. A New Look at Compass App
To coincide with the Apple Watch Ultra, Apple also introduced a redesigned Compass app in watchOS 9. When launching the app, you will immediately notice the hybrid view that displays both the analog compass dial and digital information. Turn the Digital Crown to see more data including altitude, longitude, altitude and incline.
There are new Compass Waypoints and Backtracking on the same screen. With waypoints, you can mark a location or point of interest in the app for later access in the app. For example, you can mark the location of your car in a parking lot. Selecting the waypoint will show its direction and how far it is.
3. Improved Apple Watch Dock
A single press of the Side Button opens the Apple Watch dock where you can easily access apps to use. And with watchOS 9, the dock will show the apps currently in use.
4. How to Mirror Apple Watch on an iPhone
Making the Apple Watch more accessible for users with physical disabilities has announced a new Mirroring feature. On your iPhone, you can control any Apple Watch using iPhone features such as Voice Control and Switch Control.
5. A New Quick Action
Also, Apple has added a new Quick Action accessible for Apple Watch users in watchOS 9. A simple double finger gesture can answer or end a phone call, dismiss a notification, take a photo, play/pause and start media.
6. How to Use the Apple Watch Keyboard
Apple added a built-in keyboard starting with the Apple Watch Series 7. Instead of Scribble or Dictation, you can write a message and much more. The QuickType prediction engine will suggest possible words and phrases you typed.
You can also use languages like French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, and Spanish on the watchOS 9 keyboard
7. More Features for Family Setup Apple Watch
Family Setup lets kids or other family members use a cellular-enabled Apple Watch without needing an iPhone.
With watchOS 9, kids can now access the Podcasts app. Starting late 2022, kids can be invited to the Home app to control HomeKit accessories and HomePod speakers.