Apple today released watchOS 9.0.1 to the public. The update comes just ahead of the release of the Apple Watch Ultra on Friday.
watchOS 9.0.1 can be downloaded for free through the dedicated Apple Watch app on the iPhone by going to “General” -> “Software Update.” The Apple Watch Ultra needs to have at least 50% battery charge, needs to be on a charger, and needs to be in the range of the iPhone.
According to Apple’s release notes, the 9.0.1 update addresses an issue that could cause audio to be distorted during phone calls when using the speakers.
Apple Watch Ultra sports a 49mm titanium case and flat sapphire front crystal boasting the biggest and brightest Apple Watch display yet. A new customizable Action button offers instant access to a wide range of features.
Apple says the Apple Watch Ultra has the best battery life of any Apple Watch, reaching up to 36 hours during normal use. A new low-power setting, ideal for multi-day experiences, can extend battery life to reach up to 60 hours.
A new “Wayfinder” watch face is designed specifically for the larger Apple Watch Ultra display and includes a compass built into the dial, with space for up to eight complications. Apple Watch Ultra also brings three new bands — Trail Loop, Alpine Loop, and Ocean Band — which Apple says offer unique design features that provide a secure and comfortable fit for every adventure.
The Apple Watch Ultra is made from aerospace-grade titanium, providing a balance of weight, durability, and corrosion resistance. The case rises up to surround all edges of the flat sapphire front crystal, protecting the Retina display, which is up to 2000 nits — 2x brighter than any Apple Watch display yet.
A new Action button in high-contrast international orange is easily customized for instant access to a variety of features, including Workouts, Compass Waypoints, Backtrack, and more.
Apple Watch Ultra has three built-in microphones to significantly improve sound quality in voice calls during any conditions. Apple Watch Ultra uses advanced wind noise-reduction algorithms, including machine learning, to deliver clear and intelligible audio for calls.
For the first time ever in an Apple Watch, the precision dual-frequency GPS integrates both L1 and the latest frequency, L5, plus new positioning algorithms. Apple says that the Apple Watch Ultra delivers the most accurate GPS of any Apple Watch to date, providing users the most precise distance, pace, and route data for training and competing.
Apple Watch Ultra features innovative new temperature-sensing capabilities that enable further insights into women’s health. The unique two-sensor design reduces bias from the outside environment and the body itself. Utilizing the new capabilities, users can receive retrospective ovulation estimates, which can be helpful for family planning.
Using two new motion sensors and an advanced sensor-fusion algorithm, Apple Watch can detect a severe car crash with Crash Detection. When Apple Watch detects a severe car crash, the device will check in with the user and dial emergency services if they are unresponsive after a 10-second countdown. Emergency responders will receive the user’s device location, which is also shared with emergency contacts.
