Tag: Apple Watch Series 9

  • Apple watchOS 26 Launches with AI Workout Buddy Feature

    Apple watchOS 26 Launches with AI Workout Buddy Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Introduction of the AI-based “Workout Buddy” for motivational support during workouts.
    2. Enhanced Workout app with personalized workouts, music playlists, and automatic volume adjustment.
    3. Smart Stacks feature providing useful prompts based on user habits and sensor data.
    4. Upgraded communication features, including AI-translation for text messages and caller information alerts.
    5. Compatibility for watchOS 26 is limited to Apple Watches from 2020 onwards, excluding the first-generation Apple Watch SE.

    Apple has revealed watchOS 26 for its Apple Watches, featuring a fresh Liquid Glass interface, handy new tools, and an AI-based Workout Buddy. This operating system works with all Apple Watches that came out in 2020 or later (like the Apple Watch 10 available on Amazon), except for the first-generation Apple Watch SE.

    Introduction of Workout Buddy

    The Workout Buddy needs to be linked to an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence and Bluetooth headphones. While users exercise, the Buddy offers motivational support to help them meet their targets, providing updates on various stats like distance, heart rate, milestones, and pace. After each workout, users receive congratulatory messages. All the spoken encouragement is generated by AI, with the right tone and energy for popular activities such as running, walking, and strength training.

    Enhancements in the Workout App

    The Workout app has been revamped to allow easier access to personalized workouts, while Apple Music can now pick playlists that fit the user and their workout preferences. It can also suggest additional playlists and podcasts based on previous exercise history. The volume of the speaker adjusts automatically to match the surrounding noise levels.

    Apple Watches with watchOS 26 will use Smart Stacks to show useful prompts based on a user’s daily habits and sensor data. For instance, if a user appears to be lost, a prompt may suggest using the Backtrack feature to retrace their steps. A simple flick of the wrist now enables users to dismiss notifications. If someone tends to forget things, they can record notes using the new Notes app by typing or dictating.

    Improvements in Communication Features

    In watchOS 26, calling and messaging get several upgrades. Text messages will be AI-translated automatically and offer suggested actions based on their content. However, Live Translation is limited to the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 when connected to an Apple Intelligence-supported iPhone. Users can now hear the name of the caller and the reason for the call before picking up. Furthermore, when on hold during a call, users will receive alerts when they are taken off hold.

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  • Apple sued by consumers over carbon neutrality claims

    Apple sued by consumers over carbon neutrality claims

    Key Takeaways

    1. Consumers have filed a lawsuit against Apple, claiming the Apple Watch models are falsely marketed as “carbon neutral.”
    2. The lawsuit argues that two carbon offset projects funded by Apple have not effectively reduced carbon emissions.
    3. Allegations suggest that the claimed carbon reductions would have occurred regardless of Apple’s involvement in the projects.
    4. The misleading marketing is said to hinder consumer choice and deny informed buying decisions in the smartwatch market.
    5. The legal case is currently ongoing in the United States District Court of Northern California.

    Apple might not be as green as they say.

    A recent lawsuit from consumers suggests that the tech giant misrepresented the Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Ultra 2, and Apple Watch SE. These watches were marketed as “carbon neutral,” but seven buyers argue that this claim is misleading.

    Claims About Carbon Neutrality

    According to Apple, the watches achieved carbon neutrality through a mix of lowered emissions and funding carbon credits by investing in carbon reduction initiatives. The lawsuit, which involves customers from Florida, California, and Washington, D.C., asserts that two carbon offset projects funded by Apple have failed to effectively lower carbon emissions.

    One of these projects is located in China, while the other is in a national forest in Kenya. Both initiatives focus on forestry, but the lawsuit claims they have done very little to actually reduce atmospheric carbon. The Kenyan project has been protected from deforestation since 1983, and the Chinese initiative is situated in a tree-rich area.

    Allegations of Misleading Information

    The lawsuit contends that “in both instances, the carbon reductions would have happened regardless of Apple’s participation or the projects’ existence. Since Apple’s claims of carbon neutrality rely on the effectiveness and credibility of these projects, its assertions are false and deceptive.” Apple stated that these initiatives have “retired 485,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents,” according to the lawsuit, which also claims these statements are misleading and incorrect.

    The individuals involved in the lawsuit expressed that “Apple’s misleading marketing tactics… hinder consumer choice” and “[deny consumers] the chance to make informed buying decisions in the smartwatch sector.” The main argument in the lawsuit is that “each Plaintiff might not have bought the Products or would not have paid as much had they known that Apple’s ‘carbon neutral’ assertions were untrue,” indicating that Apple’s advertising led to financial harm by manipulating consumer choices.

    Current Legal Proceedings

    The case, titled Dib et al v. Apple Inc., has been filed in the United States District Court of Northern California under Case number 5:25-cv-02043 and is presently ongoing.

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  • Grab the Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS, 41mm) in India – ₹2,499 Off

    Grab the Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS, 41mm) in India – ₹2,499 Off

    In India, the initial cost of the Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS, 41mm) starts at ₹34,999. By using an SBI or ICICI debit or credit card during checkout, customers can save an extra ₹2,499, reducing the effective price to ₹32,499. Let's delve into what the Apple Watch Series 9 offers.

    Enhanced Features of the Apple Watch Series 9

    The Apple Watch Series 9 introduces innovative hand gestures and a cutting-edge Apple Silicon chip.

    Say farewell to constant screen tapping with the Series 9's new "Double Tap" gesture, enabling users to execute various tasks like answering calls, pausing music, or silencing alarms by simply tapping their thumb and index finger together.

    Performance Upgrades and Integration

    The Series 9 boasts a significant performance boost with a new Apple silicon chip featuring 60% more transistors and 30% faster operation than its predecessor, the Series 8. This enhancement leads to a smoother user experience. Additionally, the chip's four-core neural engine handles Siri requests and dictation directly on the watch, enhancing speed and security. Despite these advancements, the battery life remains a reliable 18 hours.

    Taking inspiration from AirTags, the Series 9 utilizes ultra-wideband support for Precision Finding, enhancing location accuracy. Moreover, the watch seamlessly integrates with HomePod, simplifying smart home device management.

    Display, Sustainability, and Design

    The Series 9 optimizes the always-on Retina display, boosting its maximum brightness to an impressive 2000 nits while still allowing it to dim down to 1 nit for comfortable viewing in low-light settings.

    Apple emphasizes environmental responsibility by incorporating recycled materials and reducing packaging in the Series 9. The watch is available in a fresh assortment of colors, including a new pink variant.

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  • Apple Launches Refurbished Apple Watch Series 9 in China

    Apple Launches Refurbished Apple Watch Series 9 in China

    Apple China recently expanded their selection of refurbished Apple Watch options by including Series 9 models in their lineup, starting from 2,499 Yuan ($360 USD). Available choices range from aluminum, stainless steel ceramic and glass builds as well as options for cellular connectivity – see image for further reference:

    Pricing Details

    For 41mm versions and 2,699 for 45mm versions respectively. However, GPS+cellular editions come at 3,199 each for both 41mm and 45mm sizes.These price points offer significant cost-cutting potential of between 500 yuan to 800 yuan when compared with brand new Apple Watch Series 9 models.

    Enhance Features Of Apple Watch Series 9

    Apple unveiled their Apple Watch Series 9 in September 2023 with an S9 SIP sporting 5.6 billion transistors – an increase of 60% compared to Series 8. This chip delivers 30% improved GPU performance for longer battery life on each charge and doubled outdoor peak brightness (2,000nits vs 1000nits in Series 8). Apple promises it can last 18 hours between charges with this display reaching outdoor peak brightness levels reaching 2000 nits doubling their outdoor brightness levels from Series 8.

    New Features And Warranties Provided Information.

    Apple has introduced an innovative "double tap" gesture with the Series 9. Users can perform specific actions by simultaneously tapping their index finger and thumb against the screen. While Apple offers one year warranties on refurbished Apple Watch models, such devices might display minor signs of wear over time and should not be seen as brand new products.

    [Apple Launches Refurbished Apple Watch Series 9 in China]

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  • Apple’s Blood-Oxygen Smartwatch Resale Delayed Until 2028

    Apple’s Blood-Oxygen Smartwatch Resale Delayed Until 2028

    There's positive news for Apple Watch users in the United States who are missing the blood oxygen monitoring feature. Recent developments suggest a potential return, although the timeline remains uncertain and could be lengthy.

    Apple's Efforts to Overturn the Ban

    Apple is making efforts to appeal the ban that led to the removal of the blood oxygen monitoring feature. This move could pave the way for an earlier reinstatement of the functionality.

    Following a lawsuit from Masimo regarding the infringement of pulse oximetry technology, Apple faced restrictions on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2. Documents from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection hint that Apple may be able to resume selling watches with the blood oxygen feature by August 2028, coinciding with the expiration of the patent in question.

    Ongoing Challenges and Future Outlook

    Apart from the patent expiration, Apple is challenging the ban set by the U.S. International Trade Commission, potentially leading to a quicker return of the blood oxygen functionality. However, the absence of a settlement between Apple and Masimo poses a significant hurdle. Masimo is concerned about potential misuse through jailbroken iPhones and is pushing for stricter preventive measures.

    The situation remains complex, and the lack of a licensing agreement between the parties adds to the uncertainty. The potential financial implications for Apple are significant, given the popularity of Apple Watches among its product lineup. The outcome remains to be seen, but for now, users will have to wait for updates on the reintroduction of blood-oxygen-measuring Apple Watches to the market. Stay tuned for further developments!

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  • Apple is currently researching touchscreen problems on select Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models

    Apple is currently researching touchscreen problems on select Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models

    Apple has confirmed it’s investigating an issue affecting a number of Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 models in an internal memo shared with Apple’s Authorized service providers.

    The memo, obtained by MacRumors, reads “Some customers may report their Apple Watch Series 9 or Apple Watch Ultra 2 is experiencing false touches on their display.”

    Issue with Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2

    The issue can lead to unexpected behavior in some Apple Watch models without any user interaction. This may include unintended phone calls, apps opening or closing without prompts, or difficulty entering the device passcode.

    Erratic Screen Behavior

    In an internal memo, Apple described the issue as potentially causing the affected watches’ screens to “jump erratically” or exhibit other unprompted actions. There’s no current indication of how widespread the problem may be, or whether it stems from a hardware fault or a software bug.

    The company, however, recommends that users ensure their Apple Watch is running the latest watchOS version, implying that a software fix may be possible. Apple has neither confirmed a timeline for a resolution nor commented on whether faulty hardware could be contributing to the issue.

    Temporary Solution and Investigation

    For the time being, Apple has reportedly informed technicians at Authorized Service Providers to avoid repairing affected devices while the investigation is ongoing.

    A temporary solution suggested for users who encounter the issue is to force restart their Apple Watch. You can do it by pressing and holding the Digital Crown and side button simultaneously for at least 10 seconds, or until the Apple logo is displayed. Since Apple is aware of this issue, we might expect an update to fix it pretty soon.

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  • Apple Watch Saves US Student from CO2 Poisoning

    Apple Watch Saves US Student from CO2 Poisoning

    The Life-Preserving Capabilities of the Apple Watch

    The Apple Watch has garnered recognition for its life-preserving potential, with numerous recounted instances where individuals attribute their survival to the gadget. The most recent tale hails from Natalie Nasatka, a Delaware scholar spotlighted on CBS. Natalie confronted a life-threatening predicament stemming from carbon monoxide poisoning, but the SOS call functionality on her Apple Watch facilitated swift assistance.

    Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

    Natalie’s ordeal commenced with severe fatigue and lapses in consciousness. Unbeknownst to her, a malfunctioning heater in her living quarters emitted lethal carbon monoxide gases. Carbon monoxide, being scentless and flavorless, poses a formidable challenge to detect. Regrettably, at that point, Natalie did not possess a carbon monoxide detector in her abode.

    The Emergency SOS Call Functionality

    In the midst of the emergency, Natalie successfully triggered the SOS feature on her Apple Watch, prompting an urgent emergency intervention. Firefighters promptly arrived at her home, rescuing her from the perilous setting. This episode underscores the life-preserving capability of the Apple Watch, a trait that numerous others have also experienced. Apple strategically incorporates such narratives in their promotions, showcasing the device’s lifesaving aptitude.

    Crucial Attributes of the Apple Watch

    The Apple Watch flaunts an array of health and fitness surveillance attributes, such as heart rate monitoring and blood oxygen level supervision. These attributes equip users to oversee their health status. Additionally, the pivotal SOS call feature grants swift access to emergency services during crises.

    Activating the SOS Call Feature

    Activating the SOS call functionality on an Apple Watch necessitates merely holding down the side button and selecting SOS. Even with the latest watchOS release, this operation remains unaltered, accentuating its importance and the urgency for users to acquaint themselves with it. In a recent occurrence, two Apple Watch users shared their lifesaving encounters with CEO Tim Cook, eliciting personalized email responses.

    The Apple Watch has transcended its role as a mere intelligent wearable gadget, affirming its utility as a potentially life-preserving ally for individuals concerned about their welfare and safety.

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  • Two Apple Watch users receive life-saving emails from Tim Cook

    Two Apple Watch users receive life-saving emails from Tim Cook

    The Life-Saving Capability of the Apple Watch Continues to Impress

    Apple Watch has long been hailed for its life-saving capabilities, and users continue to share their remarkable stories. This week, two Apple Watch users received email responses from Apple CEO Tim Cook after expressing their gratitude for the device.

    Michael Gallegos’ Story

    Michael Gallegos, a resident of Wichita, Kansas, credits his Apple Watch for saving his life. He received a low heart rate notification from his watch, alerting him that his heart rate had dropped below 40 beats per minute for more than 10 minutes. Additionally, the watch detected an irregular heart rhythm while Gallegos was asleep. These crucial health insights were shared with his son Nick through Apple Health’s notifications. Acting swiftly, Nick took his father to a health facility where doctors diagnosed an undetected heart condition. Gallegos was fitted with a pacemaker, and the doctors emphasized how lucky he was. Grateful for his son’s gift of the Apple Watch, Gallegos’s story prompted Nick to email Apple CEO Tim Cook to express his appreciation.

    Christopher Oakley’s Experience

    68-year-old Christopher Oakley from Asheville, North Carolina, also credits his Apple Watch for providing vital heart data. After experiencing health issues, the Apple Watch data revealed that Oakley had suffered a minor heart attack. The watch recorded his heart racing at a rate of 121-151 beats per minute throughout the night. This information was crucial in diagnosing the issue, and Oakley underwent emergency double bypass surgery. Oakley, too, emailed Tim Cook to express his gratitude for the Apple Watch, acknowledging the life-saving impact it had.

    Tim Cook’s Response

    Both Michael Gallegos and Christopher Oakley received prompt responses from Apple CEO Tim Cook. Cook expressed his gratitude for their stories and thanked them for sharing their experiences. He also conveyed his joy that both men were able to receive the necessary treatment and continue their lives thanks to the Apple Watch.

    The Apple Watch continues to prove its worth as a life-saving device, with countless stories of its impact on users’ health. These stories serve as a testament to Apple’s commitment to creating innovative products that make a difference in people’s lives.

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  • US Court of Appeals Halts Temporary Ban on Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Sales

    US Court of Appeals Halts Temporary Ban on Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Sales

    Apple Watch Sales Ban Temporarily Suspended

    Apple recently encountered a sales prohibition on its popular smartwatches, the Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2, within the United States due to a patent violation lawsuit filed by health tech brand Masimo. Nevertheless, there shines a flicker of optimism for Apple, as the tech giant has been granted a temporary reprieve on the ban by a US Court of Appeals.

    Patent Infringement Lawsuit Triggers Sales Restriction

    The prohibition on the retail of Apple’s Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 results from a patent infringement claim put forth by Masimo. Alleging Apple’s infringement of its patents concerning health monitoring technologies integrated into the smartwatches, Masimo secured a ban, disallowing the sale of the affected smartwatch models in the US market.

    Ephemeral Respite for Apple

    Despite the sales restriction, Apple has secured a transient respite. The US Court of Appeals has sanctioned the tech behemoth to temporally halt the ban, permitting them to persist in selling the Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 for the time being. This temporary relief will afford Apple some breathing space as they steer through the legal entanglement with Masimo.

    Ramifications for Apple and Consumers

    The interim suspension of the sales ban undeniably marks a favorable turn for Apple. It enables the continuity of retail for their flagship smartwatches in the profitable US market, ensuring uninterrupted revenue streams. Furthermore, it bestows Apple with an opportunity to bolster their stance and negate the patent infringement assertions made by Masimo.

    For consumers, this signifies the ability to procure the latest Apple smartwatches without any constraints, at least for the present. The Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 present an assortment of cutting-edge features and health monitoring functionalities, rendering them highly desired gadgets in the wearable technology sector. With the provisional ban lifted, consumers can prolong their enjoyment of the advantages offered by these innovative smartwatches.

    Conclusion

    Although the legal conflict between Apple and Masimo remains ongoing, the provisional suspension of the sales ban injects a glimmer of optimism for the tech giant. It enables Apple to continue vending their Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2, supplying relief to both the company and consumers. As the legal proceedings unfold, the eventual repercussions of this patent infringement case on Apple and the smartwatch market remain to be determined.

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  • Start-up CEO finds validation in court win over Apple Watch 9’s sales suspension

    Start-up CEO finds validation in court win over Apple Watch 9’s sales suspension

    Health tech firm Masimo is currently in a dispute with Apple over patent rights, leading to the halt on the sale of certain Apple Watch models. Masimo’s CEO, Joe Kiani, revealed that in 2013, he had discussions with Apple regarding a potential acquisition or employment. Kiani believes that the infringement of their patent rights was not accidental but a deliberate act by Apple to take Masimo’s intellectual property. He accused Apple of hiring over 20 Masimo engineers and claimed that Masimo was the true inventor and creator of the technologies used in the Apple Watch models. Despite being open to a settlement, no agreement has been reached thus far.

    Apple Watch models affected by the sales halt

    Apple recently announced that it will no longer be selling two Apple Watch models due to a ruling by the International Trade Commission (ITC) that found their use of blood-oxygen sensing technology to be in violation of Masimo’s patents. The ITC has also proposed a ban on the import of these watches starting from December 25, 2023. Apple stated that it will remove the affected models from shelves before the deadline. Masimo views the ITC’s decision as a demonstration that even the most powerful company in the world must abide by the rules.

    Apple’s response and plans moving forward

    Apple, on the other hand, strongly disagrees with the ITC ruling and is exploring various legal and technical options to ensure that the Apple Watch remains available to customers. If the ban on sales stands, Apple has pledged to take all necessary measures to promptly return the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to customers in the US.

    Counter accusation by Apple

    In response to Masimo’s patent violation case, Apple has made a counter accusation against Kiani. They claim that he initiated the case in order to promote his own smartwatch, which they believe is a copy of the Apple Watch.

    Overall, the dispute between Masimo and Apple has resulted in the halt of sales for certain Apple Watch models. While Masimo accuses Apple of deliberately infringing on their patent rights, Apple disagrees with the ruling and is determined to ensure the availability of their watches to customers. The outcome of this dispute remains uncertain, but it highlights the importance of intellectual property rights in the tech industry.

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