Released alongside the Apple Watch 4, watchOS 5 brings a handful of software updates and tweaks to all the previous Apple Watch models (aside from the very first version, often dubbed Series 0). A subtler design change is that the sensor array that sits on the bottom of the watch has been shrunken down, resulting in a less bulbous look. This means the Apple Watch 4 sits closer to the wrist than before. It’s a small design tweak – one you’ll only notice if you’re upgrading from a previous model – yet it’s something I have constantly been impressed with. Apple Watch Ultra 2 has a water resistance rating of 100 metres under ISO standard 22810. It may be used for recreational scuba diving (with compatible third-party app from the App Store) to 40 metres and high-speed water sports. Apple Watch Ultra 2 should not be used for diving below 40 metres. Water resistance is not a permanent condition and can diminish over time. For additional information, see support.apple.com/en‑gb/HT205000. Apple defines its restrictions on harmful substances, including definitions for what Apple considers to be “free of”, in the Apple Regulated Substances Specification. Every Apple product is free of PVC and phthalates with the exception of AC power leads in India, Thailand (for 2-pin AC power leads) and the Republic of Korea, where we continue to seek government approval for our PVC and phthalates replacement.

There’s been little change in the design of the Apple Watch since its introduction – until now. The Series 4 is the first real reinvention of the wearable. I say reinvention, but if you’re familiar with previous Apple Watches then you’ll instantly feel at home with the Apple Watch Series 4. We did try to fall, but it was getting a little embarrassing and perhaps we need to commit harder to the testing - we'll update the review if we get braver in the coming months. Apple added music streaming earlier this year via Apple Music. It's limited to playlists you create on your phone beforehand, but watchOS 5 brings a Podcast app, for greater media options for anyone looking for a truly standalone wearable. Apple Goes All-In on HealthApple Watch Ultra 2, Apple Watch Series 9, and Apple Watch SE require iPhone Xs or later with iOS 17 or later. The most notable change on the inside has to do with heart rate monitoring. The optical sensor on the underside of the watch is now surrounded by an electrode. This will enable electrocardiogram readings in Apple's upcoming ECG app. The Series 4 also sports an improved accelerometer and gyroscope, which are essential for the new fall detection feature. Case and strap combinations can be made within collections (Apple Watch and Apple Watch Hermès) only.

Throughout the majority of the review I have been switching between the Sport Loop and the Sport Strap, with the Leather Loop thrown in for the classier occasion. The ease of the Sport Loop, with its velcro band, is my favourite of the bunch – it’s just the easiest and the comfiest. It’s made from a slightly elastic fabric and uses a hook and loop fixing, similar to the premium Milanese Loop, to secure around your wrist. Since it uses this strap, it’ll fit pretty much any sized wrist and allow you to alter the fit depending on what you’re doing.Apple Watch Series 1 has a water resistance rating of IPX7 under IEC standard 60529. Apple Watch Series 1 is splash and water resistant, but submerging it is not recommended. It has been a few months since the Apple Watch 4 was launched alongside the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max and it remains the finest smartwatch I have ever used and reviewed. You also now benefit from the ECG app now being available in the UK. To access and use all Apple Card features and products available only to Apple Card users, you must add Apple Card to Wallet on an iPhone or iPad that supports and has the latest version of iOS or iPadOS. Apple Card is subject to credit approval, available only for qualifying applicants in the United States, and issued by Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Salt Lake City Branch.

More passively, you also get notifications if your heart rate is too low or too high while at rest. This is a more precautionary feature, and since I'm in relatively good health, I never received a warning. Requires Apple Watch Series 7, SE, Ultra, or later. For a list of supported countries and regions, see apple.com/watchos/feature-availability. It’s a tremendous idea and one that could save someone’s life. It’s not, however, something that can be triggered by pretending to fall or even being pushed over. Trust me, I’ve tried.

Charge times are from 0–80% and 0–100% using the included Apple Watch Magnetic Fast Charging USB-C Cable. Testing conducted by Apple in August 2023 using preproduction Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS) and Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS + Cellular), each paired with an iPhone; all devices tested with prerelease software, Apple Watch Magnetic Fast Charging USB-C Cable (Model A2515), and Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter (Model A2305). Charge time varies with region, settings, and environmental factors; actual results will vary. The other thing we weren't able to really test was the new fall detection, as you have to go down a certain way and remain there for a while to activate the feature. I still have a big complaint, though, and it’s the same complaint Richard Easton levelled at the Series 3 – why is there no always-on display option so I can constantly see the time? This is something just about every other high-end smartwatch we’ve reviewed this year has implemented and it’s sorely missing here. I understand this would heavily impact battery life and Apple wants to ensure everyone’s watch makes it through the day, but there’s nothing wrong with giving consumers the choice. Apple Watch Series 4 (GPS + Cellular) requires an iPhone 6 or later with iOS 12 or later. Apple Watch Series 4 (GPS) requires an iPhone 5s or later with iOS 12 or later.