Apple announces watchOS 8 with Mindfulness app, new Watch Faces, and more

Apple Watch

Apple has announced the next generation of its watchOS software.

Kevin Lynch took to the virtual stage at this year’s WWDC 2021 to discuss new features coming to the Apple Watch later this year, including respiratory rate trends, which can now be monitored inside the Health app.

Other changes include Photos Watch Faces, where portraits offer a layered look, with the clock appearing behind the users’ face, whilst new Workout types have been added, including Tai Chi for meditation and Pilates. The company also teased the launch of a new Fitness+ series with Jeanette Jenkins as well as an artist spotlight series, where users can enjoy working out to their favourite artists’ music with a professional personal trainer.

Other features that are coming to watchOS include a new photo-sharing option in Messages and Mail, and text editing is available via Scribbles, allowing users to add emoji and use the digital crown to position the cursor.

The Breathe app has been overhauled, and a new Mindfulness app asks questions and encourages you to think.

Subscribe to AppleMagazine on iOS for a more in-depth look at watchOS in this coming week’s issue.

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