Apple announced some key improvements for the Apple Watch at WWDC 2016, their annual developer’s conference in San Francisco, earlier today. The new features, which include a Control Center/Dock app switcher, measures to improve app performance and more fitness tracking functionality, will be released with the watchOS 3 update this Fall.
The biggest change to watchOS 3 will switch the side button on the Apple Watch from activating contacts to opening up the dock, or an app switcher window. This is the type of functionality seen on iOS by double-tapping the home button. The Control Center idea, accessible in iOS by swiping up from the bottom of a device, will also be coming to watchOS.
The Apple Watch internal framework for launching apps will also be upgraded in the upcoming update, with something Apple is calling Instant Launch. Supposedly, watchOS apps will be able to launch themselves up to 7x faster in watchOS 3 than currently seen with watchOS 2. Game Center will also be coming with watchOS 3.
Other new additions will include various improvements for fitness tracking functionality. These will include better support for Apple Watch wheelchair users as well as an official relaxation guide app called Breathe, the ability to set workout metrics such as distance traveled or average heart rate, and sharing details of your physical activities with friends, family or personal trainers via the Apple Watch directly.
Lastly, the Apple Watch will soon have an SOS feature to activate emergency response services by holding down the side button, integration with Apple Pay for third-party watchOS apps and more API access for device services such as volume control.
Do you think the watchOS 3 update will breathe new life into the Apple Watch? Share your thoughts in comment section below!
