The Apple Watch Series 10 marks a significant update in Apple’s smartwatch lineup. While it does not bring a radical redesign, it refines the existing model with notable hardware improvements. Here’s a detailed look at its specifications and real-world applications.
Design & Display
- Sizes: Available in 42mm and 46mm
- Display: LTPO OLED Retina, with brightness up to 2000 nits
- Screen Type: Edge-to-edge “wide-angle OLED” with enhanced off-axis viewing angles
- Always-On Display (AOD): Features a visible second-hand, updating at 1 Hz
- Bezel: Slimmer frame with more glass, visually thicker compared to Series 7, 8, and 9
- Durability: Sapphire glass on titanium models; Ion-X glass on aluminum models
- Material Options: Aluminum (10% lighter) and Titanium (20% lighter)
- Colors: Includes new Jet Black in anodized aluminum
The Series 10 features a larger display compared to Series 7, 8, and 9, particularly noticeable in the 46mm model. This enhancement facilitates more on-screen information, which is valuable for fitness enthusiasts and those who track detailed metrics. Runners and cyclists can take advantage of the extra screen real estate to view additional data such as time, calories, heart rate, and distance, all in real time. The AOD now includes a continuously updating second-hand at 1 Hz, offering greater accuracy and functionality compared to previous models.
The wide-angle OLED screen offers better visibility from different angles, making it easier to check notifications or time discreetly. Useful in situations where subtlety is required, such as during meetings when glancing at the watch without raising your wrist is advantageous.
Performance
- Chip: S10 System in Package (SiP)
- Neural Engine: Improved, but no significant performance boost over S9
- Battery Life: Approximately 18 hours (Apple’s standard)
Sensors
- New Water Temperature Sensor: For monitoring water temperature during swimming or diving
- Updated Accelerometer and Gyroscope: Enhanced for more accurate activity tracking and crash detection
- ECG, Blood Oxygen, and Heart Rate Sensors: Remain the same as in previous models
A new sensor designed for real-time water temperature monitoring, useful for swimmers and divers to assess environmental conditions. Swimmers and divers can use this feature for safety, especially in extreme or hazardous water conditions.
Speaker and Audio
- Speaker: Reduced size by 30%, but still capable of playing media like podcasts and music
- Microphone: Enhanced noise cancellation for clearer calls
The re-engineered speaker is 30% smaller but still delivers good audio quality for music and podcasts, a practical upgrade for outdoor activities. Hikers and runners who prefer not to use earbuds can benefit from the improved speaker for listening to media on the go.
Charging
- Faster Charging: Achieves up to 65% charge in 30 minutes with the included magnetic charger
Faster charging capabilities allow users to top up their watch quickly, achieving 65% charge in just 30 minutes. Ideal for busy professionals or travelers needing a quick recharge between workouts or meetings.
Apple Watch Series 10 : Price
The Apple Watch Series 10 has a starting price of Rs 44,900 and goes up to Rs 56,900. Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Series 9 was also officially launched for Rs 44,900 last year, but often retails at a discounted price, and is currently available for a starting price of Rs 41,000.
Final Thoughts on Apple Watch Series 10
The Apple Watch Series 10 introduces several practical enhancements over its predecessors. The larger and brighter display, faster charging, and new sensors add real value, especially for those coming from older models like Series 4, 5, or 6. However, for users of Series 7, 8, or 9, the improvements may not justify an upgrade, given the overall design continuity. With this iteration, Apple seems to have settled on a design direction that will likely be carried forward in future models.