Before WWDC 2022, Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman reported, based on his own sources, that Apple was working on a new Low Power Mode for watchOS 9. However, watchOS 9 was announced without new features in this regard. Now Gurman returns with a related report, but this time claims that the Low Power Mode will be exclusive to the new Apple Watch Series 8.
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In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman revealed that he's still expecting a new Low Power Mode feature to arrive later this year. However, instead of a watchOS 9 feature, the new Low Power Mode is expected to be announced as one of the new features of the Apple Watch Series 8 - which will likely be released later this year.
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Current Apple Watch models already have a feature called “Power Reserve Mode.” However, as detailed by 9to5Mac, this feature disables almost all of the Apple Watch’s functions and only shows the time to conserve battery life. While this works in emergencies, users must restart their Apple Watch to access apps and other features.
According to Gurman's initial report, the new low power mode will allow users to continue using Apple Watch apps and features without consuming too much power . It should work like the Low Power Mode already available on iOS and macOS , which essentially suspends background activities and reduces the device's performance to save battery.
However, it's also unclear why Apple would keep this option available exclusively for the new Apple Watch model, as it is rumored to retain the same chip as the Apple Watch Series 7.
What to expect from the Apple Watch Series 8
Based on recent rumors, the Apple Watch Series 8 will be a minor upgrade compared to the current Series 7. Aside from having the same internal specs as the Apple Watch Series 7, which is already based on the Series 6 despite the larger display, the Series 8 is expected to retain the same current design as the 41mm and 45mm versions.
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However, Apple is also reportedly working on a “ruggedized version” of the Apple Watch Series 8 aimed at extreme sports. The company may also introduce an updated Apple Watch SE, which will still be based on the Apple Watch Series 6 design with larger bezels, but this time with the same processor as the Series 8.
Given that hardware upgrades will be minimal this year, it wouldn't be surprising if Apple keeps some software features exclusive to new Apple Watch models to boost sales.
Information source: 9to5mac.com
