Whether you’ve just unwrapped a new Apple Watch Series 10 or opted for the rugged Apple Watch Ultra 2 this holiday season, it’s essential to explore its capabilities. With features for fitness, safety, and navigation, users can maximize their experience. New owners should focus on apps to enhance functionality and familiarize themselves with watchOS 11’s features.
Top apps for your new Apple Watch
The Apple Watch offers a rich array of third-party applications designed to complement its built-in features. Here are top apps to download immediately, enhancing the overall utility of your smartwatch.
- SmartGym: This app allows users to track personalized workouts directly from their wrist, independent of their iPhone. SmartGym utilizes AI to create custom plans, supporting various fitness regimens, including HIIT and home workouts. While the app is free, it offers a subscription for extended features, making it a worthwhile addition.
- Runna: Ideal for runners, Runna functions effectively without the iPhone, providing tailored running workouts directly on the watch. Users receive audio instructions for pace and intervals, with real-time updates available at a glance. The app appeals to those aiming to establish or improve their running routines.
- Citymapper: Going beyond basic navigation, Citymapper serves over 400 cities worldwide. The app provides step-by-step directions across multiple transport modes, including buses and trains. Users can save frequent destinations and receive real-time alerts for public transportation, enhancing daily commutes.
- CARROT Weather: This weather app stands out with its unique personality, offering customizable forecasts, including a “profanity-laden” option for those seeking humor in weather updates. CARROT Weather sources data from multiple providers, featuring alerts for various weather conditions. An integrated complication for the Apple Watch adds to its utility.
- Cheatsheet: A practical tool, Cheatsheet allows users to store essential information on their watches for quick access. From Wi-Fi passwords to important codes, the app offers visual cues and can be displayed as a complication, making information retrieval straightforward and efficient.
- Pillow: This sleep tracking app monitors your sleep patterns, providing detailed insights into your sleep quality, heart rate, and breathing. It syncs seamlessly with Apple Health and offers features like smart alarms to wake you up at the optimal time.
- Streaks: A habit tracker designed to help you build and maintain good habits. Whether it’s drinking more water, exercising, or meditating, Streaks keeps you accountable with reminders and progress tracking right on your Apple Watch.
- Autosleep: For those focused on improving sleep hygiene, Autosleep automatically tracks sleep duration and quality without requiring manual input, giving detailed metrics and visual insights directly on your watch and iPhone.
watchOS 11.2: Apple Watch just got way smarter
Must-try features on watchOS 11
In addition to helpful apps, Apple has integrated new features into watchOS 11 that enhance the user experience. One standout is the Check In safety feature, which allows users to notify friends or family of their whereabouts during certain activities, such as jogging or traveling. The tool is embedded within the Messages app, allowing users to select contacts and set parameters for automatic updates based on time or location. This feature not only promotes safety but also ensures peace of mind, as contacts receive alerts if a user fails to send a follow-up message.
Users can easily initiate Check In by selecting a contact, tapping the plus sign in a message, and scrolling down until they find the Check In option. From there, they can enter details such as their expected arrival time or specific locations, providing a significant safety net for solo activities.
Layer these powerhouse apps with watchOS 11’s clever upgrades, like the Check In safety feature, and you’re holding (or wearing) a tool that’s as thoughtful as it is functional. The ability to quietly reassure friends and family during solo activities is a subtle but game-changing addition, proving that innovation isn’t just about flash—it’s about practicality.
Featured image credit: Apple
