Six New Apple Watch Features Coming Later This Year

With the new Apple Watch Ultra and Series 8 models now in the hands of customers, Apple has brought a host of smart new features to many peoples' wrists. There's more to be done.

Some of the additional features for Apple Watch Series 8 and Apple Watch Ultra are watchOS 9 functions, which means they will work on older Apple Watches as well. We can expect what we can get.

1. Track Detection

Apple will soon introduce a new Track running experience that will automatically detect when you arrive at a running track, and combine Apple Maps data withGPS to provide a more accurate route map, as well as more accurate pace and distance metrics. Track Detection is coming to the US via a software update for the Apple Watch Series 4 and later models.

2. Race Route

Race Route is a new feature that allows runners to race against each other on frequently completed routes. In session pacing guidance will be offered by the feature. The Apple Watch Series 4 and later will feature Race Route.

3. International Roaming

International roaming will soon be supported for cellular Apple Watches. Three and O2 in the U.K., and China Mobile are among the international carriers that have agreements with Apple to support the feature. International roaming will be available for Apple Watch Series 5 and later models by the end of the year, according to Apple.

4. Family Setup – Home App Support

The Home app will allow a child to be invited as a member to control their smart home devices. Kids will be able to use home keys and hotel keys in Apple wallet.

The feature is dependent on Apple's new Home architecture and a separate update in the Home app. Sharing control of your home and receiving Home notifications requires a home hub, and only Apple TV and HomePod can be used.

5. Oceanic+ App (Apple Watch Ultra)

The built-in Dive computer for the Apple Watch Ultra is the brainchild of Apple and Huish outdoors. Oceanic+ will be a free app on the App Store and will include a lot of features.

Users will need to purchase a subscription plan for more advanced diving options. The app will be on the App Store later this year.

6. Low Power Mode (Apple Watch Ultra)

The Apple Watch Ultra has the longest battery life of any Apple Watch at up to 36 hours. Apple is working on a low-power setting that will allow the device to last up to 60 hours on a single charge.

15 hours of workout, over 600 time checks, 35 minutes of app use, 3 minutes of talk, and 15 hours of sleep tracking are included. The low-power setting will be available later this year.