Apple Watch Series 10 launches with faster charging, larger screens, and FDA-approved sleep apnea detection at $399.
TakeAway Points:
- The $399 Apple Watch Series 10 launches with larger screens and faster charging (80% in 30 minutes).
- The healthcare industry may be disrupted by a new FDA-approved sleep apnoea detection technology that provides a less expensive diagnostic tool.
- The Series 10’s continuous 18-hour battery life, in spite of small enhancements, can turn off some customers in favour of longer-lasting devices.
Apple Watch Series 10
The Apple Watch Series 10 officially hits stores on Friday, marking a decade since the first Apple Watch was introduced. The new model brings several refinements that may appeal to both first-time buyers and those considering an upgrade.
The Apple Watch is part of Apple’s Wearables, Home, and Accessories unit, which reported $8.1 billion in revenue during the fiscal third quarter, a 2% decline from the previous year. CEO Tim Cook noted that two-thirds of Apple Watch buyers are new to the device.
The Series 10 features a slightly thinner design, larger screens, and new software features that will also be available on earlier models. The watch has new charging coils under the back glass, allowing it to charge to 80% in 30 minutes. A full charge lasts 18 hours, consistent with previous models. The screens are slightly bigger, making it easier to type and select songs or tap buttons. The new speakers allow users to listen to podcasts, music, or audiobooks without headphones. Additionally, the Series 10 introduces a sleep apnea detection feature, approved by the FDA, which will also be available on the Series 9.
Apple Watch Series 10’s new features
The Apple Watch Series 10 includes several new features and enhancements. The charging speed has improved significantly, with the watch reaching 80% charge in just 30 minutes.
The larger screens make it easier to interact with the device, and the new speakers provide an alternative to using headphones. The move from steel to titanium in higher-end models makes the watch lighter, and the shiny black aluminum option offers a more premium look at the same starting price of $399.
The sleep apnea detection feature, approved by the FDA, is a significant addition. Sleep apnea affects over 30 million people in the U.S., but only around 6 million are diagnosed. The feature uses an accelerometer to measure movements at the wrist that indicate disruptions to normal breathing patterns. Users can view their nightly metrics in the Health app, and Apple will analyze this data monthly to notify users if they show consistent signs of sleep apnea. Dr. Sumbul Desai, Apple’s vice president of health, expressed excitement about the feature’s potential impact.
Impact on the Market and Consumer
The Apple Watch Series 10 is expected to appeal to a broad range of consumers. For first-time buyers, the new features and enhancements make it an attractive option. For those with older models, the improvements in design, charging speed, and new health features may justify an upgrade.
However, the Series 10’s battery life remains at 18 hours, which may be a drawback for some users. The Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2 offer up to 36 hours of battery life, making them more suitable for extreme sports enthusiasts or those who need longer battery life.
The sleep apnea detection feature could be a game-changer for the healthcare market. Traditional sleep apnea tests can be expensive, with in-lab tests costing around $3,000 and at-home tests costing hundreds of dollars. The Apple Watch Series 10, starting at $399, offers a more affordable alternative. Dr. David Kuhlmann, a physician specializing in sleep disorders, believes the feature could increase visits to healthcare providers and ultimately reduce healthcare costs by catching sleep apnea earlier.
