Apple today released watchOS 10 public beta to testers. The public beta allows users to experience the upcoming Apple Watch software ahead of its official release in the fall. Keep reading to learn about the new features and enhancements that watchOS 10 brings to the Apple Watch as well as how to download watchOS 10 public beta on your wearable.
Everything new in watchOS 10 public beta
With watchOS 10, Apple is introducing a major update to the Apple Watch interface, focusing on widgets. The new Smart Stack feature, accessible with a simple turn of the Digital Crown, displays the most relevant information throughout the day, adapting to your usage habits. This information-forward design allows for quicker interactions and a more personalized Apple Watch experience.
Apple has given a fresh look to almost all of the built-in apps on the Apple Watch. Weather, Maps, Home, Messages, Activity, Heart Rate, Stocks, and more have undergone overhauls to provide an enhanced and efficient user experience. The new design prioritizes information, making it easier to access and interact with the apps you use most.
watchOS 10 introduces two new captivating watch faces: Palette and Snoopy. Palette showcases the time with a vibrant array of overlapping colors, adding a touch of creativity to your wrist. Snoopy, featuring characters from the beloved Peanuts cartoon, offers animated designs that change throughout the day, adding a delightful and nostalgic touch to your Apple Watch experience.
For outdoor adventurers, the Maps app now includes a topography view, providing elevation information, contour lines, hill shading, and points of interest. This update makes the app more useful during hikes and outdoor activities. Cyclists will appreciate the new advanced metrics, views, and experiences available through a connection to Bluetooth-enabled cycling accessories.
The Mindfulness app introduces a new feature for logging moods and emotions, promoting overall well-being and self-awareness. Group FaceTime audio calls are now supported, enabling seamless communication with friends and family right from your Apple Watch. Additionally, the new NameDrop feature allows for quick exchange of contact information by simply holding your Apple Watch near someone’s iPhone.
watchOS 10 compatible watch models
Note that watchOS 10 requires iPhone XS, iPhone XR, or later with iOS 17. Here are the Apple Watch models that are compatible with the software update:
- Apple Watch Series 4
- Apple Watch Series 5
- Apple Watch SE
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch Series 7
- Apple Watch Series 8
- Apple Watch Ultra
Download and install watchOS 10 public beta
To download the latest watchOS 10 public beta on your Apple Watch, start by installing iOS 17 public beta on your iPhone. Next, install the proper configuration profile from Apple’s beta testing website. Open the Watch app on your iPhone and navigate to General. Select Software Update and choose the watchOS 10 Public Beta option under Beta Updates. Make sure your Apple Watch has over 50 percent of battery life and is plugged in.
Please be aware that as this is beta software, it is possible to encounter crashes, performance issues, and bugs. It is advised to proceed with caution during installation and ensure that you have a backup of your device stored on iCloud.
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