Apple Watch Series 10: A Hands-On Review of Apple’s Most Advanced Smartwatch

Apple Watch Series 10 | Image Credit: cnet.com
Apple Watch Series 10 | Image Credit: cnet.com

Apple’s latest smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 10, has arrived with significant design upgrades, health-tracking features, and technological improvements. Announced at Apple’s 2024 event alongside the iPhone 16, the Series 10 represents a notable shift in the evolution of wearables. This hands-on review will explore the new design elements, performance features, and health tools that set it apart from its predecessors.

Design and Display: Bigger, Thinner, and Sleeker

One of the most striking features of the Series 10 is its larger display, offered in 42mm and 46mm options. Apple has increased the screen brightness by 40%, making the display easier to view from wider angles. This enhancement significantly improves readability in different lighting conditions, even when the watch is in ambient mode​ (Wareable)​ (Engadget).

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While the display has grown, the watch itself has become thinner, with a 9.7mm thickness, a 10% reduction compared to the Series 9. This sleeker design is complemented by more rounded angles and new color finishes, including a striking black aluminum option. Apple has also replaced the stainless steel casing with a titanium alternative, making the watch lighter while retaining its premium feel​(

Engadget).

Health and Fitness Tracking: A Comprehensive Update

The Series 10 expands Apple’s robust health-tracking capabilities. One of the most significant new features is sleep apnea detection, a tool that tracks sleep disturbances via the accelerometer rather than the traditional SpO2 sensor. This data is then displayed in Apple’s Health app, providing detailed insights into your sleep patterns over time​ (Wareable)​ (Engadget).

For water sports enthusiasts, Apple has integrated a depth gauge and water temperature sensor, making it suitable for activities like snorkeling and kayaking. The new Tides app also offers real-time tidal data, which is particularly useful for those who engage in water-based activities​ (Wareable).

Performance and Battery Life

Powered by the S10 chip, Apple claims that the Series 10 offers faster performance and smoother transitions between apps. While Apple hasn’t significantly changed the battery life, the watch retains the ability to last up to 18 hours with typical use. However, the improved energy efficiency of the new display and processor means that users might experience better battery optimization during daily tasks​ (Engadget).

Carbon Neutrality and Sustainability

In line with Apple’s ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental footprint, the Series 10 is a carbon-neutral product. The shift from stainless steel to titanium contributes to this goal, while the manufacturing process now involves 100% recycled rare earth elements. Apple is aiming to achieve full carbon neutrality by 2030, and this watch is a part of that mission​ (Wareable).

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New Features: Depth Sensors and More

In addition to its health and fitness capabilities, the Apple Watch Series 10 includes some new hardware features. The most prominent is the metal back, which serves as an antenna for improved LTE connectivity. This enhancement is particularly useful for users who rely on the watch for communication without their phone. Other features include redesigned speakers capable of playing music directly from the wrist, a handy option for casual listeners​ (Wareable)​ (Engadget).

User Experience: Does Size Matter?

For long-time Apple Watch users, the size increase might be a double-edged sword. While the larger display is undeniably useful for viewing more content at once, some users might find the 46mm model too bulky for everyday wear. However, the thinner profile and lighter materials help mitigate this issue​ (Engadget).

Conclusion: Apple’s Best Smartwatch Yet?

The Apple Watch Series 10 is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, with notable improvements in display, design, and health-tracking technology. Whether the larger size appeals to you or not, it’s clear that Apple has refined the smartwatch experience, making it more user-friendly and feature-packed than ever. If you’re in the market for a premium wearable with top-tier health features and an eye-catching design, the Series 10 is a solid choice.

For those looking to maximize their health tracking while enjoying the convenience of a smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 10 is a step forward in wearable technology, cementing Apple’s dominance in this sector​ (Engadget).