Apple Watch Series 10 ⌚ HANDS-ON

September 19, 2024

I had some time to play around with the Apple Watch Series 10, and I have to say, it is SO NICE! I love the larger display and thinner build. There are also a lot of great new features added. What do you think of it?

The Apple Watch Series 10 has finally arrived, and after spending some hands-on time with it, I have to say it’s incredibly thin and light. It’s difficult to convey just how much this change impacts your experience, but for something you wear all the time — including while sleeping — the reduced thickness and weight make a big difference. Whether you’re running or working out, having a lighter watch is always better, and even if you’re wearing long sleeves, it’s less intrusive. While the thinner and lighter design may seem like a subtle upgrade, it’s a massive improvement in terms of comfort and usability.

Despite its thinner profile, the Apple Watch Series 10 boasts a bigger display, which is available in two sizes — 42mm and 46mm. The larger 46mm version even surpasses the display size of the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which is quite impressive given how much lighter and thinner this model is. But beyond the physical changes, there are several nuanced updates worth mentioning. For example, the Series 10’s display is not just larger; it also features a wide-angle OLED screen, offering better visibility at off-angles, especially in bright daylight.

When it comes to colors, the Series 10 is available in three aluminum finishes: jet black, rose gold, and silver, starting at $399 for the GPS version. You can upgrade to the cellular model if needed. Interestingly, Apple has replaced the stainless steel option with titanium for the premium versions, available in natural, gold, and slate colors. These models are priced at $699 and come standard with both GPS and cellular connectivity. The shift to titanium makes the watch lighter without compromising its premium feel, although some may miss the heft of the stainless steel models.

Another subtle hardware change is the new metal back, replacing the previous glass design. The speaker system has also been improved, with a more advanced array of speaker holes, allowing for better sound when using the watch as a media player. While most people may use the speakers for phone calls or Siri, it’s now easier to listen to podcasts or music on the go, making it a handy feature when transitioning from one activity to another, like carrying groceries after getting out of your car.

In terms of software, the Series 10 includes some exciting updates. One standout is the Oceanic Plus app, which is a depth-measuring tool useful for casual diving, capable of measuring up to 20 feet. This feature makes the Series 10 a more versatile tool for water sports enthusiasts without needing to purchase the Ultra model. For surfers and fishers, the Tides app offers up to a 10-day forecast of tidal conditions, sunrise, and sunset times, allowing users to plan their aquatic activities more efficiently. If you’re into kayaking or canoeing, you can now track your route and speed directly on the watch, a cool addition for those who enjoy water-based adventures.

One of the most significant new features is the sleep apnea detection capability. Sleep apnea is a common but underdiagnosed condition, and this year has seen more devices focusing on its detection. Using the accelerometer to detect sleep disturbances, the Series 10 can help identify potential sleep apnea episodes, although it’s not clear whether the SpO2 sensor is being utilized for this purpose in the U.S. due to regulatory hurdles. Still, it’s a crucial feature that can significantly improve health awareness for many users.

The Series 10 also features the new S10 chip, which brings speed upgrades and AI enhancements, improving call clarity and overall performance. Faster charging is another welcome improvement. In just 30 minutes, the watch can reach 80% charge, making it much easier to wear overnight for sleep tracking without worrying about running out of battery during the day.

Apple has also introduced the improved Smart Stack, which adapts throughout the day to show more relevant information, such as weather updates when a storm is approaching. New watch faces and an AI-powered photo curation feature are small but thoughtful software upgrades. There’s also a new Translate app, allowing for quick translations directly on the watch, which could be especially handy when traveling abroad.

All in all, the Apple Watch Series 10 brings a lot of incremental but meaningful upgrades. While some may see it as just another slight improvement, the enhancements in design, display, and functionality make it an exciting release for Apple Watch enthusiasts. As I spend more time with the watch, I’ll be diving deeper into its features, including GPS accuracy, heart rate monitoring, and the new sleep apnea detection. Stay tuned for more comparisons and reviews, and feel free to let me know what specific features you’d like to see tested!

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