Apple Watch watchOS 7 Update: What To Know

Apple has released the new watchOS 7 for compatible Apple Watches, letting users enjoy the improvements and new features the Cupertino tech giant added to the operating system version.

Those who own an Apple Watch Series 3 or newer will be able to download and install the new watchOS version, which has gone through nine developer betas and five public betas, to their devices. It's free and can be downloaded over the air.

Apple Watch users can expect new health and functional features from the new watchOS 7. Here's a quick look at some of the new OS' features.

Sleep tracking

The new watchOS version builds on the sleep tracking features Bedtime offered and now provides more data related to a user's sleep. It also offers other interesting features related to getting a good night's sleep, such as Wind Down, which allows users to create customized bedtime routines.

The new Sleep tracking feature gives users a look at how well they sleep based on their movements. It will also provide a look at sleep patterns.

Handwashing

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic requires everyone to develop proper handwashing habits. The new Handwashing feature included in watchOS 7 will be helpful in doing this.

This feature will monitor hand movements to determine if the wearer is washing hands. When it does, it will automatically start a 20-second countdown to urge users to keep washing until the time is up.

The Health app will also work with the feature and will help users keep track of their handwashing habits while providing them with tips on how to prevent the spread of diseases.

Fitness

Apple added new workout methods to watchOS 7. These include core training, functional strength training and cooldown.

Dancing has also been added to the workout methods. The Apple Watch will monitor this using a combination of heart rate sensor and accelerometer data.

Watch faces and sharing

The Apple Watch gains new watch faces via watchOS 7, as well as the ability to share watch faces with others. New watch faces include the new Chronograph Pro, which adds a tachymeter to the wearable.

Users will be able to download new watch face configurations from the Apple Watch App Store, as well as from certain websites.