Apple has announced the Watch Series 9. Like previous years, it comes in two sizes, 41 and 45 millimeters, and with and without 4G functionality. What is new, however, is the S9 chip inside and the fact that this is Apple's first carbon-neutral product.
The Apple Watch Series 9 was announced at Apple's Wonderlust event, where the iPhone 12 series also saw the light of day. Four different models of the Series 9 were released;
- Apple Watch Series 9 41mm
- Apple Watch Series 9 4G 41mm
- Apple Watch Series 9 45mm
- Apple Watch Series 9 4G 45mm
S9 SiP
In addition, the Watch Ultra 2 and Watch SE (2023) line was also announced simultaneously, but more on that in a separate article. What all the watches have in common is that they all use Apple's new S9 SiP. This System In a Package features 60% more transistors, delivers faster animations, and enables on-device Siri.
All Watch Series 9 models feature a bright 2000-nit screen. This makes reading in direct sunlight easier. Of course, you don't want so much light lying in bed. The screen can dim back to 1-nit, just enough to tell the time.
On-device Siri
Siri commands no longer require an internet connection, making them faster. Siri can now also access health information. This allows you to ask how many hours you slept, although this only works speaking in English and Chinese (Mandarin).
2nd generation Ultra Wideband
All Watch Series 9 models run watchOS 10 with access to NameDrop. This lets you transfer contact information by holding your Series 9 watch near an iPhone. The watch also works better with HomePod by displaying playback buttons on your watch when you are close to a HomePod. And Precision Finding lets you find iPhone phones more accurately, provided they, like this Watch Series 9, have the second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip.
Double Tap gesture
Apple introduced an entirely new feature: Double Tap. Apple believes this will be a significant new way to interact with your watch. Tapping your index finger against your thumb twice allows you to answer incoming calls, snooze alarms, start timers, open Smart Stacks and more. The watch recognizes this hand gesture by monitoring and interpreting various sensors. It is ideal for when you need your second hand for other things.
Carbon Neutral
Apple has set itself the goal of being completely carbon neutral by 2030. Ahead of that, some Series 9 models are carbon neutral. These are the aluminum models with the new Sport Loop strap. The CO2 that is still released, such as during transportation, will be offset by Apple. This even applies to the expected power consumption each watch consumes during its lifetime.
Eligible models feature a carbon-neutral logo. You can recognize future Apple products that are this as well by this. Apple is further saying goodbye to leather as a material and introduces a new kind of material in its place. FineWoven has a luxurious look and a suede-like feel and is made from 68% recycled materials.
Watch Series 9 in stores
The Apple Watch Series 9 watches are available in aluminum (Pink) and stainless-steel casings (Gold, Silver, and Graphite). Prices start around €450 and go up to €1200. Apple will start taking orders on Friday, but only in select countries, then begin shipping them on Friday, Sept. 22.
