Tag: Apple Watch

  • Apple Watch battery boost with HMO over LTPO OLED

    Key Takeaway

    – Apple Watch Series 11 battery life improvement is a marketing trick; real runtime is barely longer.
    – For longer battery life now, you need an Apple Watch Ultra or a smartwatch from another brand.
    – A major battery life upgrade is expected in 2027 with the Apple Watch Series 13.
    – This upgrade comes from using new HMO OLED displays from LG Display, which consume less power.
    – HMO OLED panels are not ready for mass production yet, missing the Series 12 release.

    Apple Watch Series 11 Battery Life Trickery

    Acording to Apple, the Apple Watch Series 11 achieves a battery life of 24 hours instead of the 18 hours that older models were supposed to achieve. However, this “upgrade” was only achieved by Apple bought by a trick. In practice, the battery life is hardly any longer. So if you want a longer runtime, you currently have to either go for the much larger and more expensive Apple Watch Ultra or a smartwatch from another manufacturer.

    Upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 4 Design and Series 12 Software

    This year, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 in particular is set to receive a new design, while the Apple Watch Series 12 is said to mainly benefit from software improvements. According to a new report from The Elec the Apple Watch could finally get a longer battery life in 2027.

    Future HMO OLED Technology for Better Battery

    This is because LG Display is currently developing a High-Mobility Oxide (HMO) TFT. This HMO OLED panel is intended to replace the LTPO OLED display of future Apple Watches. As LG Display will initially produce these panels in very small formats, the Apple Watch is the most likely product from the iPhone manufacturer to benefit from this technology first. HMO is said to have one major advantage over LTPO: lower power consumption.

    No Panels for Series 12, HMO Could Arrive in 2027

    It is still unclear when exactly the first HMO OLED panels will be delivered. As LG Display has not yet validated the panels for mass production, the displays will not be available for the Apple Watch Series 12. At the earliest, the panel might be ready to ship as part of the Apple Watch Series 13, which is expected to be launched in September 2027. The Elec | Giang duong (teaser image)

    Sources
    Tags: , , , ,
  • Apple Watch sensor upgrade and new features with watchOS 27

    Apple Watch sensor upgrade and new features with watchOS 27

    Key Takeaway

    – watchOS 27 could enable sensor improvements and new features on older Apple Watch models, not just new hardware.
    – A modular “Modular Ultra” watch face will be available across both Ultra and smaller Apple Watches, featuring numerous complications.
    – watchOS 27 aims to enhance performance, stability, Maps access on Ultra 3, satellite photo sharing, AI features, and potential Siri app availability.

    Introductory Overview

    Apple Watch chatter continues with talk of minor hardware tweaks rather than sweeping changes, keepin things relatively constant. The Series 11 priced at $299 on Amazon and the Ultra 3 have not shown dramatic redesigns, and the Series 12 is anticipated to follow suit with only small hardware tweaks. Meanwhile, whispers indicate the Ultra 4 could showcase a totally refreshed silhouette and upgraded sensors, though nothing is set in stone yet.

    Sensor and Software Speculation

    Latest reports from Bloomberg hint that sensor improvements might come not from new gears, but from watchOS 27, allowing older devices to gain enhancements without a hardware overhaul. The exact mechanics of heart rate measurement uplift remain unclear, yet a clearer picture is forming about what the next major OS update could deliver, including a modular watch face inspired by “Modular Ultra” that would be accessible on both the Ultra and the standard Apple Watch.

    What watchOS 27 Promises

    The anticipated update is said to boost overall performance and stability, while enabling the Apple Watch Ultra 3 to interact more deeply with Maps and to transmit and receive photos via a satellite network. This would mark a shift from only supporting emergency calls and texts to a broader suite of satellite capabilities. There is also chatter about new AI features, though it remains uncertain whether the Siri chatbot app will appear on the watch at launch or remain exclusive to iPhone and iPad for now.


    Sources

    Tags: , , , ,
  • Perplexity AI: Your AI Doctor for Medical Advice Today

    Perplexity AI: Your AI Doctor for Medical Advice Today

    Key Takeaways

    1. Introduction of Perplexity Health: Perplexity Health uses AI to analyze personal medical data and provide customized health recommendations, changing the traditional approach of tech firms avoiding medical guidance.

    2. AI Training Data: The AI is trained using data from hospital records, lab tests, and electronic records from 1.7 million healthcare providers to deliver accurate health insights.

    3. Personalized Responses: The AI offers tailored answers based on individual health metrics, such as incorporating recent physical activity and lab results when responding to health queries.

    4. Expert Review and Guidelines: To reduce errors, Perplexity’s system references medical literature and clinical guidelines, and includes a team of physicians to review the AI’s outputs.

    5. Privacy Assurance: Perplexity emphasizes data encryption and assures that personal health data will not be used to improve AI models, while cautioning that the feature should not replace a real physician.

    For many years, technology firms have avoided providing medical guidance. The potential legal issues are significant, and incorrect health advice can lead to severe consequences or even death.

    Introduction of Perplexity Health

    Nonetheless, Perplexity is shifting this paradigm by introducing Perplexity Health, a new feature that utilizes AI to examine your individual medical data and provide health recommendations.

    According to Perplexity, the AI can connect with your personal health information. This encompasses data collected from fitness devices like Fitbit, Withings, and Apple Health through the Apple Watch.

    Training the AI

    To develop the AI, the organization is utilizing data from “hospital records,” lab tests, and electronic records from 1.7 million healthcare providers.

    “Perplexity Health monitors metrics and trends over time across various biomarkers and activity data through a customized dashboard. When you ask a health-related question, the answer is derived from your medical records, lab results, and wearable device data simultaneously. For instance, a query about your resting heart rate can incorporate your recent physical activity, cardiac history, and latest blood tests.”

    Personalized Responses

    The concept is that if you inquire about your heart rate, the AI won’t simply provide a generic answer. It will assess your actual exercise record and recent blood tests to deliver a tailored reply.

    To minimize errors, Perplexity claims the system will also reference professional medical literature and clinical guidelines. Additionally, a team of actual physicians has been established to review the AI’s output. That said, offering medical advice is a significant move for a smartphone application, even if it is driven by AI informed by medical experts. Current telehealth apps typically depend on licensed doctors with genuine medical qualifications.

    Privacy Concerns

    Regarding health, privacy is another potential issue. Perplexity assures that your data is encrypted and will not be utilized to enhance their AI models.

    While the technology is impressive, it shouldn’t substitute for an actual physician. Time will tell whether this becomes a useful tool or a legal headache for the company.

    Currently, this feature is available only for “Pro” and “Max” Perplexity users in the United States.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Hermès Paddock Duo MagSafe Charger Priced Over Three iPhone 17 Pros

    Hermès Paddock Duo MagSafe Charger Priced Over Three iPhone 17 Pros

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple and Hermès collaborate on luxury accessories, including leather straps for the Apple Watch.
    2. The new MagSafe charger features a leather cover, with separate sections for Apple Watch and iPhone charging.
    3. The charger lacks a USB-C adapter, which must be purchased separately, and it requires a 20-watt power supply.
    4. The total cost for the MagSafe charger and carrying case is $5,150, significantly higher than an iPhone 17 Pro.
    5. The Hermès Paddock Duo MagSafe charger is available for $1,750, with package deals offered for additional accessories.

    Apple has been working with Hermès for several years on different projects, which include upscale leather straps for the Apple Watch (starting at $219 on Amazon). The renowned French luxury fashion brand has now rolled out new accessories for those who use Apple products, as part of its spring lineup.

    A Unique Charging Solution

    One of the highlighted items is a MagSafe charger that is completely covered in leather. The left side of the charging pad is made for an Apple Watch, while the right side provides a higher output for quicker iPhone charging. The cable is built in, which means it can’t be easily swapped out if it fails. Notably, the product does not come with a USB-C adapter and needs one that can supply at least 20 watts.

    Surprising Pricing Decisions

    It’s quite surprising that an adapter is not included, especially since the MagSafe charger and carrying case together cost $5,150—over three times the cost of an iPhone 17 Pro with 256 GB of storage. Besides being able to hold the MagSafe charger, the leather case is spacious enough for a USB-C adapter and smaller items like Apple Watch straps and various cables. The case is made in France, which likely adds significantly to its high price.

    Availability and Pricing

    The Hermès Paddock Duo MagSafe charger along with the Grand Paddock case can be purchased now for $5,150 from the official website. The charger itself is priced at $1,750, and Hermès also provides a package deal that includes a smaller oval case for $4,225.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Apple Watch Causes Wrist Burns and Scars, Users Face Support Issues

    Apple Watch Causes Wrist Burns and Scars, Users Face Support Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Smartwatches, like the Apple Watch, can pose serious risks, including burns from battery malfunctions.
    2. A user reported burns from an overheated Apple Watch, which left a noticeable scar.
    3. Apple initially downplayed the incident, attributing burns to an allergic reaction and failing to follow up on the user’s concerns.
    4. The user faced significant challenges in getting support from Apple, including missed appointments and unresponsive representatives.
    5. Caution is advised when interpreting user reports, as the actual cause of burns remains unclear despite the likelihood of a battery defect.

    A Reddit user has highlighted the risks that smartwatches, including the Apple Watch ($299 on Amazon), can pose if there is a major battery malfunction. On September 24, 2025, while the user was working on a laptop, the back of the Apple Watch reportedly got extremely hot. The owner quickly removed the watch, but not before sustaining burns to their skin. Months later, a scar shaped like the smartwatch is still noticeable.

    Communication with Apple

    The user reached out to Apple on the same day of the incident; however, even after six months, the issue remains unaddressed. Initially, Apple seemed to downplay the burn blisters, attributing them to an allergic reaction, but they expressed a desire to investigate further. Unfortunately, the customer never heard back from them again. When the user followed up, it was supposed that the smartwatch would be sent to Apple in Ireland for investigation, but Apple did not arrange the promised collection of the device.

    Lack of Support

    The next Apple support representative the user spoke to outright refused to set up a pick-up. After a few weeks of waiting, an appointment was finally scheduled at the Genius Bar in an Apple store—supposedly. However, when the user arrived, the store had no record of the appointment, refused to accept the watch, and the device was never sent to Ireland. Furthermore, the support representative stopped responding to any follow-up messages.

    Skepticism About User Reports

    As is often the case, such user accounts should be taken with caution. Since the Apple Watch doesn’t show any visible damage, the actual cause of the burns remains unclear, although a defect in the battery is the most probable explanation.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Home Assistant App Update: 10+ New Features and Improvements

    Home Assistant App Update: 10+ New Features and Improvements

    Key Takeaways

    1. New version 2026.2 of the Home Assistant app for iOS has been released, following version 2026.1.
    2. Users can now add entities directly to Apple Watch, CarPlay, or Widgets from the dashboard.
    3. A new optional Quick search gesture has been introduced for better efficiency.
    4. Enhancements have been made to the entity picker, download manager, and WebRTC camera player, along with edge-to-edge drawing on the Dashboard.
    5. The app will no longer refresh automatically after five minutes of inactivity.

    A fresh update for the Home Assistant app on iOS has been released. The new version, 2026.2, comes about a month after the previous version 2026.1, which introduced enhancements for CarPlay and the Control Center.

    New Features

    With the 2026.2 update, users can now add entities directly from their dashboard to their Apple Watch, CarPlay, or Widgets. An exciting addition is a new optional Quick search gesture, allowing for more efficient usage. Furthermore, there is a “mute response” option available when utilizing the Assist function.

    Improvements and Settings

    According to the release notes, this version also features enhancements to the entity picker, download manager, and the WebRTC camera player; however, specific details on these improvements have not been provided by Home Assistant. Another notable change is a new setting that allows for edge-to-edge drawing on the Home Assistant Dashboard. Additionally, the app will no longer refresh automatically after five minutes of not being used.

    For those interested in the complete change log for the Home Assistant iOS app version 2026.2, it’s available in the screenshot below. To get this update, simply head over to the Apple App Store.

    Home Assistant via Apple App Store.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Garmin, Huawei Watches to Get Two Upgrades with Apple iPhones

    Garmin, Huawei Watches to Get Two Upgrades with Apple iPhones

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple Watch is currently the only smartwatch that works perfectly with the iPhone due to operating system restrictions.
    2. Users may need to disable iMessage to allow third-party smartwatches to send messages directly through the network carrier.
    3. The upcoming iOS 26.3 update will introduce notification forwarding, improving compatibility for third-party smartwatches.
    4. Users will have to choose between using an Apple Watch or another smartwatch, as messages can’t be sent to multiple devices.
    5. The iOS 26.3 update will allow syncing of smartwatch data with the iPhone even if the related app isn’t actively running.

    Currently, the only smartwatch that works perfectly with the iPhone is the Apple Watch. This isn’t due to brands like Garmin or Huawei, but instead, it’s because of the iPhone’s operating system restrictions. For instance, users can interact with notifications directly on the Apple Watch, allowing them to reply to WhatsApp messages without needing to pick up their iPhone.

    Changes Over Time

    Eric Migicovsky, the founder of Pebble, mentions in his blog that things have gotten worse over recent years. Now, to bypass this limitation and let the smartwatch send messages directly through the network carrier, users even have to turn off iMessage. The European Commission informed The Wall Street Journal that the situation for third-party smartwatches will slightly improve with the upcoming iOS 26.3 update. This update includes a new feature called notification forwarding, which is being introduced due to pressure from the EU. With this feature, notifications can be sent to another device, allowing it to engage with messages.

    Limitations Remain

    However, there is a downside: users must pick between an Apple Watch and another smartwatch, as sending a message to multiple devices isn’t an option. According to Gadgets & Wearables, the beta version of iOS 26.3 brings a significant enhancement. After the update, users will be able to sync their smartwatch with the iPhone even when the related app isn’t actively running. This ensures that data like heart rate or workout information won’t get lost if the Garmin Connect app crashes and stays closed for a while. The iOS 26.3 update is anticipated to be available as a free upgrade for all compatible iPhones in February.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Apple Watch App Updates: New Route and Offline Maps Features

    Apple Watch App Updates: New Route and Offline Maps Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Strava introduces a new route feature for Apple Watch that displays maps for activities like running and cycling.
    2. The Strava route tool provides pre-set routes based on user data and offers offline maps and hands-free directions for subscribers.
    3. The updated Komoot app for Apple Watch includes offline routes with turn-by-turn navigation available to all users, without needing a subscription.
    4. Users can explore detailed map information in the Komoot app by zooming in with the digital crown and track activities directly on the watch.
    5. Both the Strava and Komoot app updates are available for download in the Apple App Store.

    Apple Watch owners are getting exciting new tools for route planning and navigation through two applications. These features are part of an update for the Strava Apple Watch app and a fresh komoot app designed for the smartwatch.

    Strava’s New Route Feature

    Strava is launching a new route capability for Apple Watch users. This lets you see maps directly on your watch while participating in activities such as running, cycling, and hiking. The feature was first noticed by users on Reddit and has now been officially confirmed by the company. The Strava route tool provides a list of pre-set routes based on the activity you choose, superimposing a guiding line on a GPS map. The recommended routes are generated from data collected from Strava users. Additionally, subscribers can use offline maps and enjoy hands-free route directions.

    Komoot App Enhancements

    The updated Komoot app for Apple Watch also introduces similar functionalities. Users can now access offline routes with turn-by-turn navigation. Unlike the Strava features, this is available to all users and does not necessitate a Premium subscription. Another new addition is the ability to explore map details more thoroughly, allowing you to zoom in to see streets, paths, or trails in detail using the digital crown. Moreover, you can now track activities directly from the watch, with information such as distance covered and distance to your destination shown on the device.

    Downloading the Updates

    The most recent version of the Strava app for Apple Watch (Series 11 46mm GPS curr. from $407.47 at Amazon) is available for download in the Apple App Store. Fans of Komoot can also get the latest version of the app from the App Store.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Apple Watch More Accurately Detects Atrial Fibrillation Than Check-ups

    Apple Watch More Accurately Detects Atrial Fibrillation Than Check-ups

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple Watch can effectively detect atrial fibrillation, particularly in individuals aged over 65 with a higher stroke risk.
    2. In a study of 437 participants, 9.6% using the Apple Watch had atrial fibrillation detected, compared to 2.3% in the control group after six months.
    3. The smartwatch utilizes ECG and PPG technology, improving the chances of detecting irregular heartbeats that may go unnoticed.
    4. The Apple Watch was successful in identifying asymptomatic cases of atrial fibrillation.
    5. Nearly half of the alerts generated by the watch were false positives, leading to potential anxiety and unnecessary doctor visits.

    A recent research indicates that the Apple Watch can effectively identify atrial fibrillation. The randomized trial involved participants aged over 65 who had a higher stroke risk, comparing the standard treatment in the Netherlands with the use of an Apple Watch. It’s worth mentioning that the sample size was limited to 437 individuals, with an average age of 75. A different cohort structure might bring about varying results, but the fundamental conclusions would likely stay consistent.

    Study Findings

    The research focused on atrial fibrillation detection over a six-month timeframe. The Apple Watch was compared to the standard treatment in the Netherlands, which typically involves a visit to a healthcare professional or GP. The findings revealed that after six months, 9.6% of those utilizing the Apple Watch had atrial fibrillation detected, in contrast to just 2.3% in the control group, marking a statistically significant difference.

    Technology Used

    The smartwatch employed its ECG function and PPG sensor in this study. The outcomes are not particularly surprising, since atrial fibrillation doesn’t always manifest continuously and might go unnoticed by those experiencing it. While a smartwatch might not catch a single episode as often as a doctor would, the chances of recognizing such an episode over time are significantly improved since wearables are typically worn for many hours each day. Therefore, the likelihood of detecting atrial fibrillation during a standard medical check-up can be quite low. Additionally, the Apple Watch was successful in identifying asymptomatic atrial fibrillation cases.

    Limitations of Detection

    Nonetheless, the results also highlight that the Apple Watch isn’t always precise: nearly half of the alerts generated were false positives. As noted in a previous discussion about the Apple Watch’s blood pressure monitoring feature, these alerts don’t carry any serious consequences, apart from potential anxiety and wasted time during doctor visits.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Smartlet One: Apple Watch and Analog Watch in One Band

    Smartlet One: Apple Watch and Analog Watch in One Band

    Key Takeaways

    1. Smartlet One allows you to wear both an analog watch and a smartwatch on one wrist.
    2. The band is available in three styles: stainless steel (silver or black) and titanium (gray).
    3. It features a quick-release clasp for easy use and adjustable length with included tools.
    4. Pricing ranges from $416 to $713, depending on color and finish, with free shipping included.
    5. Compatible with various watches that have band widths from 18 mm to 24 mm, including popular brands like Apple, Garmin, and Fitbit.

    Smartlet One is a unique smartwatch band that can hold two watches at once: one on the top and one on the underside of your wrist. This design lets you wear both an analog watch and a smartwatch together, like an Apple Watch or a Whoop MG for fitness tracking, without giving up the classic look of a traditional watch.

    Band Options

    You can find the band in three different styles: stainless steel in silver or black, and titanium in gray. It features a nearly invisible quick-release clasp on the top link, allowing you to open it with just one move. You can adjust the length by adding or removing links with the included tool. The band weighs between 60 and 100 grams, depending on its material and length, which is somewhat heavy and will feel even heavier when you attach two watches. If you prefer, you can swap out the second watch for a regular clasp.

    Pricing and Compatibility

    You can purchase the Smartlet One directly from the manufacturer’s online store. The price ranges from $416 to $713, depending on the color and finish, and this includes all taxes, fees, and free shipping. This wristband is compatible with any watches that have standard band widths from 18 mm to 24 mm, including the Apple Watch, Whoop 5.0, Samsung Galaxy Watch, Google Pixel Watch, several models from Garmin, as well as the Fitbit Charge 5 and 6. Remember to specify the exact watch model when placing your order.

    Smartlet

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,