22 Hidden watchOS 10 Features You Might Have Overlooked

Apple introduced watchOS 10, the latest major software update for compatible Apple Watch models. This update coincided with the release of the new Apple Watch Series 9 and the second-generation Apple Watch Ultra, both of which come pre-installed with ‌watchOS 10‌. Notable features of ‌watchOS 10‌ include a redesigned Smart Stack interface with widgets, a variety of fresh watch faces, and numerous enhancements to elevate the Apple Watch user experience. With these exciting additions and improvements, watchOS 10 offers Apple Watch users an even more dynamic and engaging wearable technology ecosystem.

1. Automate Night Mode

Automatic Activation in Poor Lighting

In ‌watchOS 10‌, the Modular Ultra watch face on Apple Watch Ultra models introduces a convenient Auto Night Mode. This feature automatically activates Night Mode in low light conditions, eliminating the need for manual intervention.

2. Check Control Center Status

Indicator Icons for Connectivity and Settings

The Control Center in ‌watchOS 10‌ now displays small icons indicating the status of various settings. This includes information like cellular connectivity, location usage, and active features like Airplane Mode or Do Not Disturb.

3. Set Multiple Timers

Enhanced Time Management

Similar to iOS 17, ‌watchOS 10‌ allows users to set multiple timers concurrently. Each timer can be labeled for easy identification and management.

4. Access the App Switcher

Swift App Navigation

In ‌watchOS 10‌, the Side button's function has changed. While it used to access the Dock, now it opens the Control Center. However, the App Switcher (formerly Dock) can still be accessed by double-pressing the Digital Crown.

5. Adjust the Flashlight

Customized Brightness

With ‌watchOS 10‌, the flashlight's brightness intensity can be adjusted using the Digital Crown, adding a level of customization to this feature.

6. Set a Target Elevation Alert

Enhanced Safety Measures

In the Compass app, users can now set a target elevation and receive an alert upon exceeding it. This feature is designed to promote safety and remind users to rest and acclimate during elevation changes.

7. Get Relative Waypoint Elevation

3D Perspective on Waypoints

In the Compass app, users can now view a 3D-like representation of waypoint elevations relative to their current elevation, providing a more comprehensive understanding of their surroundings.

8. Browse Waypoints

Expanded Waypoint Exploration

In ‌watchOS 10‌, users can now browse waypoints, including those created in the Compass app and waypoints from guides in the Maps app.

9. Find Your iPhone With Directions

Precision Finding with Ultra Wideband

With the updated Ultra Wideband chip in Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, users can utilize Precision Finding to locate their nearby ‌iPhone 15‌. This feature offers accurate directions to the device.

10. Find Hiking Trails

Exploring Nature Made Easier

In ‌watchOS 10‌, the Maps app provides the capability to discover hiking trails. Users can access details like trail names, lengths, elevations, and distances from their current location to the nearest trail access point.

11. View Offline Maps

Offline Navigation

With the introduction of offline maps in iOS 17, users can now download maps for offline use. This functionality extends to Apple Watch, ensuring access to turn-by-turn directions even without a cellular or Wi-Fi connection.

12. View Maps Walking Radius

Quick Access to Nearby Points of Interest

The Maps app now includes a Walking Radius feature, providing information on how long it will take to walk to nearby points of interest.

13. Share Your Location

Real-time Location Sharing

In Messages, users can now share their location in real-time, allowing others to track their movements within the conversation.

14. Start a Group FaceTime Call

Group Audio Calls Made Easy

In ‌watchOS 10‌, users can initiate group FaceTime audio calls directly from their Apple Watch.

15. Log Your State of Mind

Mood Tracking for Well-being

The Mindfulness app now enables users to log their mood at different times throughout the day, providing insight into their emotional well-being.

16. Record Video

Video Recording Capability

For the first time on Apple Watch, ‌watchOS 10‌ introduces the ability to record video using the Camera Remote app.

17. Plan Home Energy Usage

Grid Forecast for Energy Conservation

In the Home app, a new "Grid Forecast" section is introduced, offering information on when "clean" energy is available. This feature encourages users to be mindful of their energy consumption.

18. Add Another AirPlay Device

Expanded Audio Control

When controlling audio on an AirPlay device, users can switch to or add additional AirPlay devices using the Now Playing app.

19. Type to Speak

Live Speech Accessibility Feature

Using Live Speech, users can type on Apple Watch and have their words spoken aloud, facilitating communication during in-person conversations and phone/FaceTime audio calls.

20. Change Your Email Signature

Customized Email Signatures

In ‌watchOS 10‌, users have the ability to customize their email signatures, adding a personal touch to messages sent from their Apple Watch.

21. Share a News Story

News Sharing Made Simple

In Apple News, users can now share news stories directly from their Apple Watch.

22. Ping Your Apple Watch

Locate Your Misplaced Apple Watch

In ‌iOS 17‌, users can now locate their misplaced Apple Watch by pinging it with their iPhone, a useful feature for keeping track of your devices.