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WatchOS is the operating system installed on all Apple Watches. It manages the apps on the device and has plenty of built-in features of its own, so we're keenly looking forward to 2018's watchOS update later this year. We are going to share with you what is being unveiled yet about the software update called watchOS 5.
One of the new features is Competitions. It is a new way to compete with your friends based on points achieved by closing rings, building on the Activity Sharing features already available. Users can invite another Apple Watch wearer to compete in a seven-day Activity Competition.
Automatic workout detection is also new to the Apple Watch with watchOS 5. It works for the most popular workouts on Apple Watch, providing an alert to start the correct workout. If you've already begun the workout before you click start, it'll give retroactive credit to make sure you don't miss out.
Runners will get new features with watch OS 5, including the ability to track cadence (steps per minute), as well as a pace alarm for outdoor runs to help users keep up with their target pace.
A new Walkie-Talkie feature lets Apple Watch users talk with each other more simply. It's push to talk, so you'll just need to grant access to your friends and you'll be able to instantly connect and chat via WiFi or cellular.
Podcasts are coming to the Apple Watch. You'll be able to listen to your favorites on the go, thanks to automatically synced episodes that will refresh with the latest episode.
You're now going to be able to get third-party content on the Siri watch face, too, providing shortcuts to functions like directions from Citymapper. the Siri watch face is more predictive and proactive too, showing these directions at the appropriate times of the day.
Notifications are improved, with interactive controls available from within them for third-party apps. A Yelp reservation notification will have the ability to modify the time or change the number of guests from within the notification.
