Apple significantly improves sports tracking in the next version of its watch operating system. This is especially true for running enthusiasts.
Apple will give the new version of its Apple Watch operating system a number of new fitness features that should be of particular interest to runners and walkers. Thus, the run tracking will be significantly expanded and supplemented with new features.
Tracking significantly expanded
To this end, Apple will collect more sensor data within watchOS 9 in the future – or has improved its algorithms so that this is possible for the first time. Thus, the watch now measures stride length, ground contact time, average power in watts and the so-called Vertical Oscillation. You can also set heart rate zones and the so-called Pacer, which makes announcements about the current run, has been expanded – both via audio and via display on the screen of the computer watch.
You can also compete against your best run so far or alternatively your last run, to check whether positive training effects have set in. Running workouts can also be self-configured to have fast phases and recovery segments. Triathletes will also be pleased that the watch can automatically switch between running, cycling and swimming.
Data in the fitness app
When running, the watch will in future show several screens that can be set. Apple has already preconfigured five heart rate zones. In the workout details in the fitness app, the entire data is stored and can be checked later.
Unfortunately, the number of values to be displayed simultaneously on the watch display does not seem to have increased, so it must be scrolled or swiped to get to the next screens. Accordingly, it will be interesting to see how large the configuration options are. watchOS 9 not only fulfills some wishes for runners: The operating system finally comes with a more advanced sleep tracking function that should also be able to distinguish sleep phases – REM, core sleep time, deep sleep. Until now, these features were completely missing and could only be found in external apps.
