Summary
watchOS 10 launched in September 2023. It changed several Apple Watch apps. It added Smart Stack widgets and Compass Waypoints. The update also brought new cycling views, mood logging, and daylight tracking. Apple Watch could use maps saved offline on a paired iPhone. Check Apple’s current support information for newer software.
Introduction
Apple released watchOS 10 in September 2023. It supported Apple Watch Series 4 and later when paired with an iPhone XS or later running iOS 17. For the original device list, see our watchOS 10 compatibility guide. The next sections describe the 2023 release, not the current Apple Watch software.
Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 at launch
Apple announced Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 with watchOS 10. Series 9 added the S9 chip, which runs the watch’s apps. Its screen can reach 2,000 nits, a measure of brightness, and the watch added double tap. Apple said double tap would arrive in a later update. Ultra 2 also has the S9 chip and a screen rated up to 3,000 nits.
Redesigned apps and Smart Stack
Apple redesigned Weather, Stocks, Home, and Maps to show more at a glance. It also redesigned Messages, World Clock, and Activity. A widget is a small box that shows information from an app. The Smart Stack chooses which boxes to show based on the time and what you are doing. Turn the Digital Crown, the wheel on the side of the watch, to open it.
Cycling and outdoor navigation
Cycling workouts connect to Bluetooth sensors that measure pedaling power, speed, and cadence. Cadence means how often you pedal. Cycling workouts also gained new views. Compass added waypoints, or saved places you can return to. Apple Maps added topographic maps in the United States. These maps show hills and land shape. Save maps on a paired iPhone for offline use. Apple Watch can use them to find routes without Wi-Fi or mobile service.
Mood and daylight tracking
The Mindfulness app added a way to record your mood. Apple Watch also used a light sensor to measure time spent in daylight. Users could see that information in the Health app on a paired iPhone.
How a business owner might use watchOS 10
Smart Stack widgets can show your next meeting or travel details without opening an app. You can use cycling or walking workouts to fit exercise around your workday.
Conclusion
watchOS 10 added widgets, cycling tools, mood logs, and daylight tracking in 2023. For current device support, check Apple’s support page. For more about Apple devices, see our Apple for entrepreneurs guide.
Affiliate screen protector listing
Before buying, confirm that the current listing fits your watch model.
Customer review excerpt:
- “These work great at protecting my watch. It does get condensation under the glass when washing your hands or if you are out in the rain. They last a long time for me. I’ve cracked them and I’m glad I’ve had them on because I would have cracked my screen. Not really too bulky. I don’t notice it. Don’t have any issues touching my screen or swiping.”