Apple's iconic smartwatch is set to receive a significant software update that will introduce AI-branded features and visual enhancements. As the wearable approaches its 10th anniversary, Apple continues to position the Watch as both a health companion and a showcase for its latest technologies.
Apple Intelligence Coming to watchOS 12
The upcoming watchOS 12 update will introduce features branded as Powered by Apple Intelligence, according to reports from Mark Gurman. However, unlike the implementation on iPhones or iPads, the Apple Watch version will rely more heavily on cloud processing due to the wearable's limited computational capabilities. While the Watch itself won't handle the intensive AI processing locally, Apple appears committed to extending its AI branding across its entire ecosystem ahead of WWDC 2025.
watchOS 12 Updates
- Features branded as "Powered by Apple Intelligence"
- Visual refresh based on "Solarium" design language
- Smoother animations and updated widget styles
- Cloud-dependent approach for AI features
Visual Refresh and Design Updates
Beyond the AI features, watchOS 12 will receive a visual refresh aligned with Apple's new Solarium design language. Users can expect smoother animations, updated widget styles, and an overall more cohesive visual experience that matches changes coming to iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. While not a complete redesign, these updates will help maintain visual consistency across Apple's product lineup.
Health Benefits of Activity Tracking
Recent data from the Apple Heart and Movement Study highlights the tangible health benefits associated with regular Apple Watch use. Analysis of data from over 140,000 participants showed that people who regularly closed their activity rings were 48% less likely to experience frequent nighttime awakenings, 73% less likely to have elevated resting heart rates, and 57% less likely to report high stress levels. These findings reinforce the value proposition of Apple's activity tracking features.
Apple Watch Activity Benefits (Apple Heart and Movement Study)
- 48% less likely to wake up frequently during the night
- 73% less likely to experience elevated resting heart rate
- 57% less likely to report elevated stress
Anniversary Celebration and Rewards
To commemorate the Apple Watch's 10th anniversary on April 24, Apple is offering special incentives for users who close their activity rings that day. Participants will earn a limited-edition Global Close Your Rings Day award, animated stickers for Messages, and can collect a commemorative pin at Apple Store locations. This celebration highlights how the activity rings have become a signature feature of the Apple Watch experience over the past decade.
Future Outlook and WWDC Expectations
The introduction of Apple Intelligence features to watchOS signals the company's broader AI strategy across its product lineup. However, following previous delays with promised intelligence features, Apple faces pressure to deliver concrete demonstrations at WWDC rather than announcements of features that may arrive later. The success of these new additions could influence consumer interest in the next generation of Apple Watch hardware, expected later this year.
