Apple goes for an incremental upgrades with the Watch Series 5

If you're expecting the Apple Watch Series 5 to be vastly different from its predecessor, then you're going to be disappointed. Like the new iPhones, the Apple Watch Series 5 adds a few changes that might not be enough for current Apple Watch users to upgrade, but it could entice new customers. 

One of the most significant changes is the always-on display, which wasn't available before. The Series 5 will have new watch faces to display time and other data at all times. Apple uses a low-energy "Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide' (LTPO) screen to make this happen. The watch will also switch from a 60Hz to a 1Hz refresh rate to make sure it conserves battery when in idle mode. The screen is also optimized for the workout app so you will see your workout metrics without having to raise your wrist.

Battery life is expected to last for up to 18 hours even with the always-on display. The Series 5 is set to get watchOS 6, and it'll run on the new S5 SoC.

This smartwatch gets a new Compass app, which might not be useful by itself (unless you're lost in the woods). But with an updated Maps app, you will see where you're facing, just like on the iPhone. And third-party apps can use the compass. It makes location-based services more useful. Workout apps can get a better understanding of where you're at (like your current elevation).

There are also new finishes for the Apple Watch Series 5. There's the base-level aluminum, pricier stainless steel, as well as titanium (which is available in silver or black) and white ceramic (which was available on the Series 3 before). It's now also possible to pair any kind of Apple Watch case with any type of band. But you still get the same 40mm and 44mm case options.

The Apple Watch Series 5 is available for pre-order now, and it will go on sale on September 20th. The Apple Watch Series 5 starts at $529, while the Apple Watch Series 5 (GPS + Cellular) starts at $659.

Source: Mashable