Review: 6 Months with Apple Watch Series 9

Introduction

• Reviewer: Josh Teder
• Duration: 6 months of usage

Pros

Battery Life

• Good battery life for a smartwatch
• Charging schedule: during morning showers and sometimes at night
• Never ran into battery issues in 6 months
• Fast charging supported (not available in SE models)

Siri Performance

• Improved performance on Series 9
• Faster responses and actions (e.g., setting timers)
• Powered by S9 SIP with a dedicated neural engine for machine learning tasks
• Siri processes more requests locally on the watch

Display

• Brighter display (up to 2,000 nits)
• Easier visibility in daylight and with sunglasses

Cons

Double Feature (Pinchy Pinch)

• Allows for gesture controls like answering calls and stopping timers
• Struggle: remembering to use it
• Not very responsive; often requires multiple attempts
• Limited app support

HomePod Control

• Gained an ultra-wideband chip
• Intended for media control on HomePod
• Issue: feature not working reliably

Software and New Features

WatchOS 10

• Optimized UI for larger displays
• Redesigned apps (e.g., Weather app)
• Smart Stack for background apps
• New Snoopy watch face
• Control Center moved to the side button (full adaptation took 6 months)

Fitness Tracking

• Automatic workout detection
• Useful for hiking (compass and added views in WatchOS 10)
• Apple Fitness Plus integration

Sleep Tracking

• Used for general sleep duration and quality

Media Controls

• Control media playing on other Apple devices or directly from the watch
• Dedicated media apps supported

Navigation

• Directions with Apple Maps (haptic feedback for turns)

Quick Responses and Glanceable Information

• Set timers quickly
• Respond to texts (tiny keyboard usable)
• Glanceable info: weather, calendar events, etc.

Downsides

iPhone Requirement

• Apple Watch needs an iPhone

Software Updates

• Auto-installation times not ideal for those wearing watch to bed

Repairability

• No user-replaceable battery

Recommendations

General Recommendation

• Worth buying if owning an iPhone

Timing

• Consider waiting for next version if not urgent
• Look for deals if purchase needed now

Comparison (Series 9 vs SE vs Ultra)

• Series 9 preferred for its classic look and fast charging
• Ultra: preferred if aesthetics not an issue
• SE: no sapphire crystal display option

Durability

• Sapphire crystal display recommended for durability (no scratches after 6 months)

Conclusion

• Positive experience with Series 9
• Additional reviews available: iPhone 15 Pro Max, HomePod Mini, AirPods Max
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