Apple has released iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1, restoring the Blood Oxygen feature for U.S. users on Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2, following a patent dispute resolution enabled by a U.S. Customs ruling.
watchOS 26 introduces a new feature that automatically adjusts the volume of notifications based on ambient noise, aiming to reduce disruptive alerts for users with compatible Apple Watch models like Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2, potentially allowing some to turn off Silent Mode for audible alerts.
watchOS 26 upgrades the latest Apple Watch models to the full arm64 architecture, replacing the previous arm64_32, which allows for better performance and compatibility, while older models like the Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) and Series 8 continue to use arm64_32. Developers need to build apps supporting both architectures, with a gradual shift towards native arm64 for newer hardware.
watchOS 26 introduces a new wrist flick gesture for Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2, allowing users to dismiss notifications, calls, and alarms hands-free by simply flicking their wrist, utilizing the watch's accelerometer, gyroscope, and machine learning. The update is currently in developer beta, with a public beta expected in July and a full release later this fall.
Amazon is offering up to $100 off a wide range of Apple Watch Series 9 models, including both GPS and cellular versions, with prices starting at $299. This sale includes various aluminum and some stainless steel models, but note that these devices lack the Blood Oxygen feature due to a sales ban in the U.S.
Smartwatches have become essential wearables, offering features like texting, calls, voice assistants, maps, fitness tracking, and tap-to-pay. The best smartwatch for you depends on your smartphone, with top picks including the Apple Watch Series 9 for iPhone users, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 for Android users, the Google Pixel Watch 2 for Google Pixel phone users, and the Garmin Venu 3 for fitness enthusiasts. These smartwatches offer various features, including compatibility, battery life, and fitness tracking, catering to different user preferences and needs.
Amazon is offering a $265 discount on the stainless steel Apple Watch Series 9, with the price now at an all-time low of $433.30 for the 41mm GPS + Cellular configuration. The new S9 chip brings enhancements such as a 3,000-nit screen, pinch detection, and carbon neutral build. Additional band recommendations are available, and the watch features advanced health, safety, and activity capabilities.
The 41mm Apple Watch Series 9 is on sale at Amazon for $299.99, but the deal has sold out; other models are available at Amazon and Walmart starting at $329. The S9 processor in the Series 9 enables offline Siri use and the double tap gesture. Sennheiser's Momentum True Wireless 3 earbuds are on sale for $119.99 at Woot, offering solid audio quality and active noise cancellation. Woot is also running a sale on 4K Samsung TVs, while Walmart is offering a bundle deal on the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 instant camera. Additionally, Ugreen's 30W USB-C GaN charger and Anker's PowerExpand 6-in-1 USB-C hub are on sale at Amazon.
The Apple Watch Series 9 is currently on sale for $299, marked down from $399, offering a 25 percent discount on the 41mm smartwatch with a Midnight aluminum case and matching nylon sports loop. Launched last September, it received high praise for its features, including Double Tap for controls and on-device Siri, as well as comprehensive health monitoring capabilities. Additionally, the Series 9 is carbon neutral, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious consumers.
Amazon is offering rare discounts on cellular Apple Watch Series 9 stainless steel styles, with prices starting at $472.18 for the 41mm GPS + Cellular configuration, marking a $227 savings. The 45mm GPS + Cellular model is available for $597.90, saving $151. The Series 9 features the new S9 chip, a 3,000-nit screen, pinch detection, and is the first carbon neutral release from Apple. Additionally, there are various band recommendations available for customization.
Amazon and Best Buy are offering new all-time low prices for the Apple Watch Series 9, with the 41mm model at $299 and the 45mm GPS model at $329, both $100 off the regular prices. The Series 9 features the new S9 chip, a 3,000-nit screen, pinch detection, and is the first carbon neutral release from Apple. Additionally, there are various band options available for customization.
This weekend's top deals include discounts on Super Mario RPG for Nintendo Switch, Apple Watch Series 9, Meta Quest 2 VR headset, LG 32" gaming monitor, and the Razer Huntsman V2 keyboard. Other notable deals feature Super Mario Bros. Wonder, ROG Ally handheld PC, Splatoon 3, HORI Split Pad Compact for Nintendo Switch, Persona 5 Tactica, and Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze.
Best Buy is offering the 41mm GPS Apple Watch Series 9 for a record low price of $299 and the 45mm GPS model for $329, along with discounted cellular models. The sale is available for a limited time and includes all aluminum colors. Additionally, retailers like Best Buy can continue selling Apple Watch Series 9 models with blood oxygen sensing, despite a sales ban on such models from Apple.
Best Buy is offering the Apple Watch Series 9 starting from $309, the lowest price ever, with savings on the official Apple MagSafe Charger at $27 and rare discounts on official Space Black Apple Watch Link Bracelets. Additionally, Amazon is offering the Eve Motion Sensor with HomeKit and Matter support at $40, and UGREEN's new Nexode Pro 65W USB-C Charger is available for $47, marking the first chance to save on this new release at 15% off.
Best Buy is offering the Apple Watch Series 9 at a new all-time low price of $309 for the 41mm GPS model, down from the usual $399, and $359 for the 45mm model, reduced from $429. The Series 9 features the new S9 chip, a 3,000-nit screen, pinch detection, and is Apple's first carbon neutral release. Additional band options are available, and the watch includes advanced health, safety, and activity features.