Apple announces the Watch Series 9 with the new S9 chip

Apple today has officially announced the Watch Series 9, complete with a new, more efficient heart rate sensor and the new S9 chip. This year’s Apple Watch isn’t a big upgrade in terms of specs but it does come with some improvements. Many of which are enabled by the inclusion of the new S9 chip that Apple is using within the watch.

In addition to the new heart rate sensor, the Apple Watch Series 9 also comes with a completely carbon neutral built. As well as the U2 Ultra Wideband chip for better accuracy with location. The new S9 chip adds loads of new improvements to the watch for a more internally focused overhaul. One of the more notable changes is the on-device processing of Siri requests. This helps the watch process commands faster than before. And, it means your requests aren’t processed over the web which adds a layer of security and peace of mind. This only applies to requests that don’t require information from the internet though.

Apple Watch Series 9 introduces new double tap gesture

One of the more impressive new features of the Watch Series 9 is the double tap gesture. But it might not be a double tap the way you’re thinking. It’s not a double of the screen. Instead. this new method of interactivity allows users to do a quick double tap of their fingers.

This double gesture can be used for tons of things from stopping alarms to pausing and playing media on Apple TV+. You can also use it for answering calls, checking messages, and really just about anything. It might seem like a small upgrade for the Apple Watch. But make no mistake this will change the way people use the watch on a day to day basis. Which is to say it will change the way people interact with the watch in a pretty big way.

Apple’s new watch also comes with a brighter display. Featuring a peak brightness of up to 2,000 nits. Additional HomePod integration is now available too. Now, the watch can launch the Now Playing feature when a user gets within 4 meters of a HomePod playing audio. Additionally, there’s now new bands, including Apple’s new FineWoven band. A completely new textile created by Apple to help it replace the use of leather in its products and move towards a completely carbon neutral footprint by 2030.

Apple Watch Series 9 pre-orders begin today with prices starting at $399. The watch will be available officially on September 22.