Top Apple Watch 9 Features

Apple kept details about the Watch 9 under wraps before its launch, but the official announcement confirmed several upgrades. While it’s an incremental update over the Apple Watch 8, there are notable improvements. Here’s what stands out.

Design

The Apple Watch 9 retains the same sleek design as the Watch 8, with no significant changes to its look or screen size. Unlike the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which boasts a larger 2.1-inch display, the Watch 9 sticks with its 1.9-inch screen. However, the display is brighter, reaching up to 2000 nits—double that of the Watch 8—for better visibility in sunlight. A new pink aluminium finish adds a fresh style option. Personalise your Watch 9 with our Apple Watch accessories.

watchOS 10

The Apple Watch 9 runs watchOS 10, which is also available for older models from early September 2023. This operating system introduces new watch faces, updated apps like Maps and Compass, and a Smart Stack feature for quick access to widgets, enhancing the user experience.

S9 Chip

Every Apple Watch generation gets a new chip, and the Watch 9 is powered by the S9 SiP, Apple’s most powerful watch chip yet. With 60% more transistors and a 30% faster GPU than the S8, it boosts performance and enables features like on-device Siri processing, which is faster and more secure. The chip also supports the new Double Tap gesture, allowing you to control the watch by tapping your thumb and index finger together.

3D Printing

Apple has adopted 3D printing for some titanium components in its smartwatches, reducing production costs and time. While this was confirmed for the Apple Watch Ultra 2, it’s likely the Watch 9 also benefits from this innovative manufacturing process, though specifics remain unclear.

MicroLED

Rumours of MicroLED displays for Apple Watches have circulated for years, but the Watch 9 sticks with its OLED display. Reports suggest MicroLED might debut in future models, possibly in 2026, offering brighter and more efficient screens.

Health Sensors

Apple continues to advance health tracking, but non-invasive glucose monitoring isn’t ready for the Watch 9. Instead, it retains familiar sensors like heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen detection, and ECG readings. Rumoured new sensors, such as an electrodermal activity (EDA) sensor for stress levels or a bio-impedance sensor for body composition, didn’t make the cut, but existing features remain robust for fitness enthusiasts. Explore compatible Apple Watch chargers to keep your device powered.

GPS

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 introduced dual-band GPS (L1 and L5) for enhanced accuracy. The Watch 9 includes the same second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip as the Ultra 2, improving Precision Finding for locating your iPhone 15, but it doesn’t feature the L5 GPS band upgrade.

Action Button

The Action Button, introduced on the 2022 Apple Watch Ultra, didn’t make it to the Watch 9. This customisable button, which activates workouts, the stopwatch, or flashlight, remains exclusive to the Ultra line for now.

Apple Watch 9 Release Date

The Apple Watch 9 was officially announced on 12 September 2023, with pre-orders starting the same day and sales beginning on 22 September 2023. This aligns with Apple’s typical September launch pattern, as seen in past releases:

Apple stuck to its predictable schedule, launching the Watch 9 in the second week of September 2023, with sales starting roughly 10 days later.

Apple Watch 9 Price

The official starting price for the Apple Watch 9 was £399 for the 41mm aluminium model, with the 45mm version and cellular or stainless steel options costing more. This is slightly higher in the UK than in the US due to taxes and exchange rates, but it’s in line with previous models. Prices typically drop over time as newer models are released. Protect your investment with our Apple Watch cases.

Apple Watch 9: FAQs

How much does the Apple Watch 9 cost?

The Apple Watch 9 starts at £399 for the 41mm aluminium model, with prices varying based on size, connectivity, and material. Higher-end versions, like stainless steel, cost more.

Is the Apple Watch 9 available?

The Watch 9 launched on 22 September 2023, following its announcement on 12 September 2023, and is available for purchase from Apple and other retailers.

Can I shower with my Apple Watch 9?

Yes, the Apple Watch 9 is water-resistant up to 50 metres, making it suitable for showering or swimming. However, avoid exposure to soaps or shampoos, as these can damage the device over time.