Pricing and Availability
The Apple Watch Series 9 is now available for purchase, with prices starting at $399 in the United States, £399 in the UK, and AU$649 in Australia. This price tag gets you the 41mm model with an aluminum case, available in a variety of colors, including Midnight (black), Starlight (a silver-gold hybrid), Silver, Product Red, and the all-new Pink option. However, this entry-level model only supports GPS connectivity, so you’ll need Wi-Fi or your paired iPhone for internet access.
For those who desire a larger watch, LTE connectivity, or a stainless steel case in attractive finishes such as gold, silver, and graphite, additional costs apply. For instance, a 45mm aluminum model in Pink with GPS only comes in at $429 in the US, while the GPS and Cellular LTE version costs $529. Stainless steel models, as usual, come with a premium price tag. While the Series 9 doesn’t introduce groundbreaking changes in pricing, it does provide enough options to cater to a variety of preferences.
Design: Familiarity with a Sustainable Twist
Apple continues to adhere to the winning design of its Apple Watch, with the Series 9 maintaining the same chassis, including the digital crown, side button, microphone, and speaker. Navigating the new watchOS 10 operating system remains smooth and intuitive, thanks to the familiar interface. However, the Series 9 incorporates a sustainable twist by using recycled materials in its construction. Apple emphasizes its commitment to carbon neutrality, achieved through the use of recycled materials both inside and outside the watch. This extends to components like cobalt in its batteries and aluminum in its casings.
The eco-friendly ethos extends to the watch bands as well. The standard sport loop is crafted from 82% recycled yarn, and some versions of the swim-proof silicone-fluoroelastomer band offer textured finishes resulting from the recycling process. These bands complement the classic colors of Midnight, Silver, Starlight, and Product Red. Additionally, premium stainless steel models come with metal bands that match the watch’s casing.
Features: Double Tap and More
One of the standout features of the Series 9 is “Double Tap.” Although it was much talked about during the product’s announcement, it will only become available with a software update in October. Double Tap uses the watch’s accelerometer and gyroscope to detect intentional movements. To activate it, you need to raise your wrist as if checking the time and then perform a two-pinch gesture. This feature allows you to perform various actions on your watch face’s complications, making interactions more convenient.
The Series 9 also introduces new use cases for its second-generation Ultra Wideband technology. The “Find Devices” app, for example, allows you to locate other devices with second-gen Ultra Wideband chips. This feature provides accurate distance measurements and directional guidance, making it easier to find your misplaced device. However, this functionality is currently limited to the Series 9, Apple Watch Ultra 2, and iPhone 15 models, with future devices expected to incorporate this technology.
Additionally, Series 9 offers on-device Siri functionality, ensuring that your health data remains private. You can now use Siri to access your health information, which is stored securely on your device or encrypted before being shared. This is a significant step forward in ensuring data privacy.
Performance: Consistency with Some Battery Frustrations
After extensive use of the Series 9, it’s evident that the watch delivers excellent day-to-day performance. The new “Double Tap” feature, while not yet available for testing at the time of this review, shows promise in enhancing the user experience.
The Series 9’s display provides a brightness setting that, for most users, makes the “brightest” option unnecessary. Even under direct sunlight, the Retina Display remains visible without needing adjustments. However, the Series 9 retains its daily charging requirement. While it fulfills its promise of 18 hours of battery life, it might leave users longing for the battery improvements introduced with the previous Ultra model.
In summary, the Apple Watch Series 9 stays true to Apple’s philosophy of iterative enhancements. It builds upon the success of its predecessors and introduces subtle yet valuable features. If you own an older Apple Watch, the Series 9 offers enough improvements to justify an upgrade. Features like “Double Tap” and on-device Siri contribute to a smoother and more private user experience. However, for those with recent Apple Watch models, the Series 9 might not offer enough to warrant an immediate change. Nonetheless, it continues to be a reliable and stylish companion in the world of smartwatches.
Final Thoughts
After spending a week with the Apple Watch Series 9 and exploring some of its forthcoming features, it’s evident that this latest iteration continues the Apple tradition of evolutionary rather than revolutionary upgrades. However, there’s a notable twist in the form of the upgraded S9 chip, which introduces a genuinely useful and game-changing feature called Double Tap. This innovation promises to become an integral part of daily use, setting the Series 9 apart.
Apple’s commitment to environmentally friendly materials is a commendable step forward, aligning with the growing emphasis on sustainability. Additionally, the option of a brighter screen adds to the user experience, enhancing visibility in various conditions. Despite these positive advancements, one notable frustration remains: the absence of any significant improvement in battery life. The Series 9 maintains the daily charging routine, leaving some users desiring a more extended usage period.
Buy It If:
- You own an older Apple Watch: If you’re rocking an Apple Watch Series 5 or 6, the cumulative upgrades in the Series 9 make it a worthy purchase.
- You want hands-free operation: Faster Siri and the “Double Tap” feature enhance usability, especially when your hands are occupied.
- You’re concerned about data privacy: On-device Siri ensures your health data remains securely encrypted.
Don’t Buy It If:
- You own a recent Apple Watch: Unless you’re particularly excited about the “Double Tap” feature, the Series 9 doesn’t bring substantial changes to the table for recent Apple Watch owners.
- You’re an Android user: The Series 9 is best utilized in the Apple ecosystem for seamless integration.
- You need something rugged: If you require a robust watch for activities like mountaineering or diving, consider the Apple Watch Ultra 2 instead.
