The Apple Watch Series 10 is more than just a high-tech gadget—it’s an accessory that blends form with function in a way that’s both stylish and practical. With its thinner profile, new health features, and a stronger performance, the latest Apple Watch not only delivers on its promise as a smart wearable, but also feels like a true “arm candy” that enhances your daily life.
Design and Comfort: A Leaner, Lighter Watch
For smartwatch enthusiasts, size and weight are key considerations, and Apple has made significant strides in both areas with the Series 10. At just 9.7mm thick, this model is a millimetre slimmer than its predecessor, the Apple Watch Series 9, which was already one of the thinnest smartwatches available. While this might seem like a small change on paper, the impact is noticeable in real-world use.
The Series 10 fits more comfortably on the wrist, slides under shirt cuffs effortlessly, and feels lighter throughout the day. At only 35.3 grams (without the band), it’s notably lighter than the 45mm Series 9, which weighs 51.5 grams. This reduction in weight improves comfort, making it easier to wear all day—and even more crucially, all night.
A Larger Display, More Comfortable Wear
The Series 10 boasts a slightly larger display than the Series 9, offering a screen size that’s about 30% bigger than the Series 6. While some users might still crave an even bigger screen, the current display, particularly the 46mm variant, strikes an ideal balance between visibility and comfort. Despite its larger size, the watch is incredibly light and easy to wear, especially during sleep. This is a notable improvement for those who track health data overnight, including the innovative sleep apnea detection feature.
Health Features: Sleep Apnea and Beyond
One of the most anticipated health features of the Series 10 is its ability to detect sleep apnea, a condition where breathing intermittently stops during sleep. Apple uses an advanced accelerometer to monitor breathing disturbances, providing a detailed report of your sleep quality. After wearing the watch for over ten nights, I learned that I had a mild case of sleep apnea, a discovery that could prove crucial for many users. Additionally, the Series 10 tracks other vital metrics such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and wrist temperature, giving users a comprehensive overview of their health each morning.
Enhanced Audio and Call Features
In addition to its health tools, the Series 10 offers significant improvements in audio functionality. A new voice isolation system ensures clear phone calls and FaceTime conversations, even in noisy environments. On a recent test, I was able to make calls in a busy street near a construction site with minimal background interference. Whether you’re speaking to someone or listening to music, the enhanced audio experience makes the Series 10 a versatile companion.
For those moments when you forget your headphones, the Series 10’s speaker allows you to listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks directly from the watch. While the volume is sufficient for personal listening, it may not be loud enough to stand out in extremely noisy outdoor settings.
Faster Charging and Improved Durability
Another key improvement with the Series 10 is its charging speed. Apple has reduced charging time to just 30 minutes to reach 80%—a significant enhancement compared to previous models, which could take up to 45 minutes for the same charge.
The Series 10 is also water-resistant up to six metres and features a depth gauge, making it a suitable option for activities like snorkelling. While not designed for deep diving, this added water resistance ensures you can wear the watch without worry while swimming or in the shower.
Some Setup Hiccups
Despite these numerous upgrades, one issue marred an otherwise seamless experience: setting up the cellular feature. After multiple attempts at home, we encountered difficulties activating the e-SIM. We ultimately had to visit an Apple store for assistance, which was an inconvenience considering the premium price of the device (starting at Dh1,599 for the 42mm aluminum model). For a device in this price range, smoother setup processes would be expected.
Verdict: An Evolution, Not a Revolution
The Apple Watch Series 10 isn’t a dramatic departure from its predecessor, but it’s an evolution with meaningful improvements. The slimmer design, lighter weight, and enhanced health features make it a standout in the smartwatch category, particularly for those seeking a balance between functionality and wearability. While not a groundbreaking revolution, the Series 10 continues Apple’s tradition of refining its products to meet user needs—one millimetre at a time.
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