Watch OS 2 Brings New Dimensions To The Apple Watch With Software Update

Apple released watchOS2, the latest version of its operating system for the Apple Watch, on Monday, reports CNET.

The watchOS2 software was initially scheduled for release on September 15, concurrent with iOS9 for iPhone, but Apple Watch users had to wait a little longer for their update due to problems with a critical bug.

Apple introduced watchOS2 to the world at WWDC 2015 earlier this month, along with iOS 9 and OS X El Capitan, the new operating system for iMac and MacBooks.

WatchOS2 has been eagerly anticipated by Apple Watch users because, for the first time, Apple have opened up their smartwatch to third party apps, a move that should see developers take full advantage of the device’s capabilities.

Users can now look forward to a new and more varied collection of standalone apps — that don’t depend on pairing with an iPhone — and widgets in coming months that will go further towards utilizing and fulfilling the Apple Watch’s potential.

There are number of steps to take before updating the Apple Watch with watchOS2, note Macworld.

iPhone and Apple Watch need to be within Bluetooth range of each other, the Apple Watch must be plugged into the mains, the battery charged with at least 50 percent power and also connected to Wi-Fi.

After all those steps have been taken, the update can be downloaded by selecting Software Update from the general menu.

Once updated, there are a number of new features built into watchOS2 that Apple Watch users can enjoy immediately. There are some new watch faces available, allowing more options or customization, and you can also select a photo album from which a random image will be selected and displayed every time the Apple Watch screen is activated.

Dictating replies to emails through the Apple Watch is now possible, so you don’t need to use your phone to send answers, and you can also accept or decline FaceTime calls. Beats Radio will now be accessible on the Apple Watch through the updated music icon.

Time Travel allows you to navigate chronologically through your future calendar appointments by turning the digital crown so that you can view your schedule and upcoming events. If you need to plan a journey to any of these engagements, you can ask Siri for travel directions, although this only works for select cities at present — London, New York City, San Francisco, Baltimore, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Mexico City, Toronto, and Berlin.

[Image via Apple]