In addition to the iOS 16.1 RC (Release Candidate) version for developers and beta users, Apple also released watchOS 9.1 RC on Tuesday evening. The update adds new features and allows Apple Music songs to be downloaded via WiFi or cellular when the Apple Watch is not charging.
One of the limitations of the Apple Watch was that users had to put the smartwatch on the charger to sync Apple Music songs from the iPhone. Even after the launch of the Apple Watch Series 3, which allows streaming of the entire Apple Music catalog over WiFi or cellular, there was still no way to download songs when the Apple Watch was not plugged in. That changes in watchOS 9.1, which finally allows users to download music to the Apple Watch even when it is not connected to a power source.
Battery life is optimized on the latest models
According to the update description, this works when the Apple Watch is connected to the internet via WiFi or cellular. There are also a few other new features with watchOS 9.1. For example, the update extends battery life during certain workouts with the Apple Watch SE 2, Apple Watch Series 8, and Apple Watch Ultra by reducing the frequency of heart rate and GPS measurements. It also adds support for Matter, the new standard for smart home accessories. According to Apple, watchOS 9.1 also fixes bugs and improves system security.
watchOS 9.1 update description
- Extended battery life while walking, running, and hiking outdoors with the ability to reduce the frequency of heart rate and GPS measurements on Apple Watch Series 8, Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), and Apple Watch Ultra.
- Music can be downloaded while the Apple Watch is not charging, either over WiFi or cellular.
- Matter, the new smart home connectivity standard, is supported, allowing a variety of smart home accessories to work together across the entire ecosystem.
watchOS 9.1 release date
Apple will release iOS 16.1, iPadOS 16.1, tvOS 16.1, macOS Ventura and watchOS 9.1 to all users on Monday, October 24th provide. watchOS 9.1 will be available to all users of Apple Watch Series 4 and later available be. (Photo by hadrian / Bigstockphoto)