Apple unveiled iPadOS 16 and watchOS 9, the latest versions of the iPad and Apple Watch operating systems. These were introduced along with the M2 chip, the new MacBook Air, refreshed MacBook Pro, iOS 16, and macOS Ventura.
iPadOS 16
iPadOS 16 shares much of the new features of the iOS 16 and macOS Ventura. Among these include the updates to Mail, Safari, Messages, and iCloud Shared Photo Library.
One of the more unique additions that iPadOS 16 brings is the arrival of the Weather app that maximizes the display. It does so with animations for things like rain, snow, and even clouds.
Additionally, it also gets Stage Manager from macOS Ventura. This offers more multitasking features to the iPad and also introduces the ability to resize the windows of the apps and overlapping windows.
Stage Manager, specifically for the M1 powered iPad Pro and iPad Air, also unlocks support for full external display support of up to 6K. This gives you more multitasking options.
Apple also provided a sneak peek into a new real-time collaboration app called Freeform. It gives you the ability to see, share, and collaborate all in one place. The app will be introduced later this year.
For more on iPadOS 16, click here.
watchOS 9
Meanwhile, watchOS 9 brings new features and enhanced features. Some highlights include a new AFib History feature, Medications app, and new Watch Faces.
If you have atrial fibrillation (AFib), there will be an AFib feature that you can turn on. In the feature, you can access information like an estimate of how frequently your heart’s rhythm shows signs of AFib.
You can also get weekly notifications to understand the frequency and view a detailed history in the Health app. Additionally, you can download a PDF with a detailed history of AFib and lifestyle factors.
Meanwhile, the Medication app helps you manage and track your medications, vitamins, and supplements. You can then create a list, set up schedules and reminders, and view information on their medications on the app.
It will also alert you of potential critical interactions with medications as well as share these with your family and loved ones.
The company introduced four new watch faces namely Lunar, Playtime, Metropolitan, and Astronomy.
Other new features include sleep stages in the Sleep app and improved workout features.
If you’re interested in reading the rest of the changes in watchOS 9, click here.
Both iPadOS 16 and watchOS 9 are available to Apple Developer Program members starting today and will enter public beta next month. It will fully be available by Fall this year.
Ram found his love and appreciation for writing in 2015 having started in the gaming and esports sphere for GG Network. He would then transition to focus more on the world of tech which has also began his journey into learning more about this world. That said though, he still has the mentality of "as long as it works" for his personal gadgets.
