Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 kicks off on June 9, and one of the most anticipated reveals is watchOS 12—the next big leap in Apple’s smartwatch software. While the Apple Watch may not get as much spotlight as the iPhone or Mac, it’s a critical piece of Apple’s growing ecosystem, especially in the health and fitness space.

Here’s everything you need to know about watchOS 12, along with the latest on Apple Watch Series 10, Ultra 2, and the recently released watchOS 11.5 update.

What We Expect From watchOS 12

Apple hasn’t officially detailed watchOS 12, but leaks and analyst reports suggest several notable upgrades could be announced at WWDC 2025:

• Fresh UI Overhaul: Rumors indicate that watchOS 12 may feature a redesigned interface that better utilizes the larger displays on Series 10 and Ultra models, possibly bringing more iOS-style widgets to the Watch.
• AI-Powered Health Insights: With Apple investing heavily in on-device AI, watchOS 12 could introduce smarter health and fitness recommendations. This may include real-time analysis of trends from your heart rate, sleep, and activity data.
• Expanded Siri Capabilities: Expect deeper Siri integration, especially if it’s tied to the rumored on-device Apple Intelligence platform being introduced across iOS 19 and macOS 16.
• Customizable Home View: Users might finally gain more control over how complications and apps are arranged, especially on the Series 10’s expanded screen.
• Mental Health Features: Building on the mindfulness tools from past updates, watchOS 12 may offer mood tracking, journaling prompts, or even stress-level analysis using heart rate variability and ambient sound detection.

Developers will get early access right after the keynote on June 9, with a public beta likely launching in July, and full release expected in September 2025 alongside the next Apple Watch hardware refresh.

Apple Watch Series 11: Incremental Upgrades with a Focus on Health

The Apple Watch Series 11 is expected to retain the design introduced with the Series 10, featuring a sleek profile and large display. However, under the hood, several enhancements are anticipated:

• New S11 Chip: A more efficient processor that could improve performance and battery life.
• Blood Pressure Monitoring: Apple is reportedly working on a feature to monitor blood pressure trends, providing alerts for potential hypertension. This feature may not provide exact systolic and diastolic measurements but could offer valuable insights over time.
• Display Technology: While a microLED display is unlikely, Apple may adopt a more energy-efficient LTPO OLED screen, enhancing battery life and display quality.
• Connectivity: Potential support for 5G and satellite messaging, though these features might be exclusive to the Ultra 3 model.
• watchOS 12: The Series 11 will run the upcoming watchOS 12, which is expected to introduce a Vision Pro-inspired interface and possibly an AI fitness coach.

Pricing is anticipated to remain consistent with the Series 10, starting at $399 for the 42mm model.

Apple Watch SE (3rd Generation): Affordable with Potential Upgrades

The third-generation Apple Watch SE is projected to launch in September 2025, maintaining its position as the budget-friendly option in the lineup. While retaining the core design, several updates are expected:

• Larger Display: The SE 3 may adopt the 41mm and 45mm sizes introduced with the Series 7, offering a more expansive viewing area.
• Always-On Display: Apple might introduce this feature to the SE line, providing users with constant access to time and notifications.
• Enhanced Processor: Incorporation of the S10 chip from the Series 10 could improve performance and enable on-device Siri processing.
• Health Features: Sleep apnea detection is a likely addition, expanding the SE’s health monitoring capabilities.
• Design and Materials: To keep costs down, Apple may switch from a metal to a plastic case, reducing weight and manufacturing expenses.

Pricing is expected to start between $199 and $249, maintaining its appeal to cost-conscious consumers.

Apple Watch Ultra 3: Advanced Features for Adventurers

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is anticipated to cater to outdoor enthusiasts and professionals requiring robust features:

• Blood Pressure Monitoring: Similar to the Series 11, the Ultra 3 may include this feature to track hypertension trends.
• 5G Connectivity: Integration of 5G technology could enhance data speeds and connectivity in remote areas.
• Satellite Messaging: The Ultra 3 might offer satellite communication capabilities, allowing users to send messages when cellular networks are unavailable.
• Faster Charging: Improvements in charging technology could reduce the time needed to reach 80% battery capacity to just 40 minutes.
• Design: While the overall design may remain consistent, minor refinements and new color options could be introduced.

The Ultra 3 is expected to be priced at $799, aligning with its predecessor.

Apple Watch Series 10 — Thinner, Smarter, and More Capable

Released in September 2024, the Apple Watch Series 10 remains Apple’s flagship wearable, and it’s packed with refinements aimed at both casual users and serious health enthusiasts:

• Thinner, Brighter Display: The OLED screen is 10% thinner and even more readable in sunlight. The edge-to-edge design enhances the visual appeal and interaction space.
• Sleep Apnea Detection: This FDA-cleared feature monitors your breathing during sleep and notifies you of potential signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea—a significant step forward in preventive health.
• Enhanced Swim Tracking: Thanks to its new depth gauge and water temperature sensor, Series 10 provides improved accuracy for swimmers and divers.
• Noise Suppression for Calls: The improved microphone system now reduces background noise, offering clearer audio quality in calls and voice recordings.
• Rapid Charging: Get to 80% in just 30 minutes—ideal for those who wear their watch all day and want a quick top-up before bed.

Prices start at $399, and it’s available in 42mm and 46mm sizes, with aluminum and stainless steel finishes.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 — Built for Adventure

The Ultra 2, Apple’s most rugged and feature-rich watch, is made for explorers, divers, and endurance athletes. Released alongside the Series 10, it boasts:

• Black Titanium Option: A striking new matte finish created via a custom blast process for increased scratch resistance and a sleek, bold look.
• Best-in-Class GPS: Ultra-precise dual-frequency GPS is ideal for hikers and athletes training in varied terrain.
• Diving-Ready Sensors: Features like a depth gauge and water temperature sensor push the Ultra’s capabilities into professional territory.
• Battery Life: Up to 36 hours of regular use and 72 hours in Low Power Mode.

The Ultra 2 is priced at $799 and remains one of the most advanced sport smartwatches on the market.

watchOS 11.5 — A Preview of What’s Coming

Before watchOS 12 arrives, Apple gave users a taste of its evolving software vision with watchOS 11.5, which launched in May 2025:

• Pride Harmony Watch Face: A colorful, dynamic watch face celebrating inclusion and diversity.
• Apple TV Integration: Users can now browse and purchase Apple TV content right from their wrist—another step toward WatchOS becoming a standalone platform.
• Bug Fixes & Optimizations: The update also addressed performance issues and improved battery management across multiple models.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Watch continues to evolve from a fitness tracker into a full-fledged health and communication device. With watchOS 12 expected to bring deeper intelligence, health features, and interface refinements, and hardware like the Series 10 and Ultra 2 pushing boundaries, 2025 is shaping up to be a standout year for Apple’s wearable ecosystem. Keep an eye on WWDC 2025 on June 9 for the official announcement—and possibly a sneak peek at what’s coming next in wearable tech.

Best Apple Watch Apps for Productivity and Fitness

The Apple Watch has become a staple accessory for tech enthusiasts and everyday users alike since its launch. It offers a variety of features right out of the box, but its true potential is unlocked through additional apps that extend its functionality. The right apps can transform your Apple Watch from a simple notification device into a powerful tool for fitness tracking, productivity, and everyday convenience.

With thousands of apps available for the Apple Watch, finding the ones worth downloading can feel overwhelming. Many users don’t realize just how much their watch experience can improve with the right software additions. From health monitoring to task management, the apps you choose can personalize your watch to fit your specific lifestyle needs.

1. Water Reminder

Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and wellness. The Apple Watch offers several apps to help users track their water intake throughout the day, with Water Reminder apps being among the most useful tools.

Water Reminder apps on Apple Watch serve a simple but important purpose – they help users remember to drink enough water daily. These apps typically send notifications at regular intervals, prompting users to take water breaks.

One standout option is WaterMinder, which helps track hydration progress directly from the Apple Watch. The app calculates daily water needs based on individual factors like weight and activity level.

For those taking medications that cause dry mouth, such as ADHD medications, a water tracking app becomes even more valuable. Users on Reddit have specifically sought recommendations for this exact purpose.

Water Reminder – Daily Tracker by VGFIT calculates how much water the body needs and gently reminds users to drink throughout the day. The intuitive interface makes logging intake quick and easy.

Another popular option is WaterLlama, which adds a fun element to hydration tracking. The app includes Apple Watch integration and drinking reminders to help users avoid dehydration.

According to Tom’s Guide, Water Reminder is considered the best Apple Watch app for tracking daily water consumption. The publication even calls it “the one Apple Watch app you should be using.”

Most water tracking apps allow customization of container sizes, notification frequency, and daily goals. This personalization helps users develop consistent hydration habits.

The convenience of logging water intake with a quick tap on the wrist makes these apps more effective than phone-based alternatives. Users can track their progress throughout the day without needing to access their phones.

2. Strava

Strava is a popular fitness tracking app that integrates seamlessly with the Apple Watch. It allows users to track various activities including running, cycling, hiking, and more while providing detailed analytics about performance.

The Strava Apple Watch app requires watchOS 9.0 or later and iOS 16.0 or later to function properly. Users can download it directly from the App Store to their iPhone and sync it with their watch.

One of the key benefits of Strava is its social component. The app allows athletes to share their activities with friends, creating a community aspect that many find motivating. Users can follow others, give kudos, and participate in challenges.

For Apple Watch users specifically, Strava offers real-time metrics during workouts. These include distance, pace, heart rate, and elevation gain, all visible at a glance during activity.

Some users recommend alternatives like the WorkOutDoors app when using Strava with Apple Watch. This third-party app offers high configurability and larger metric displays that some find easier to read during workouts.

A notable feature is Strava’s route planning and navigation. Users can create routes beforehand and follow them on their watch, which is particularly useful for exploring new areas.

The app also provides post-workout analysis with detailed breakdowns of performance data. This includes segment times, average pace, and heart rate zones that help users track their progress over time.

When comparing tracking accuracy, tests show some differences between Strava, Garmin, and Apple’s native workout app. Each has slight variations in GPS tracking and distance measurements.

Strava offers both free and premium subscription options. The premium version (Strava Summit) provides additional features like advanced performance metrics, training plans, and heat maps.

3. AutoSleep Track Sleep on Watch

AutoSleep is one of the most popular sleep tracking apps available for Apple Watch users. It offers a seamless experience by automatically tracking sleep patterns without requiring users to press any buttons before bedtime. This hands-off approach makes it incredibly user-friendly.

The app provides comprehensive sleep data including deep sleep, sleep quality, and heart rate during rest. Users can view detailed graphs and statistics to better understand their sleep patterns over time. The interface is intuitive and presents information in an easy-to-digest format.

One standout feature of AutoSleep is its ability to work even if users forget to wear their watch to bed. The app can detect when the watch hasn’t been worn and will track sleep based on when the device wasn’t being used.

AutoSleep has been benchmarked against clinically certified sleep equipment, giving users confidence in its accuracy. It’s the only Apple Watch sleep app with an inbuilt actigraphy export for sleep validation.

Some users have noted discrepancies between AutoSleep and Apple’s native sleep tracking. According to Reddit discussions, measurements of deep sleep can vary significantly between the two apps. This difference highlights how sleep tracking algorithms may interpret data differently.

The app costs $4.99 as a one-time purchase with no subscription required. Many users find this worth the investment given the detailed insights provided. The lack of recurring fees makes it an economical choice compared to subscription-based alternatives.

AutoSleep offers customizable sleep goals and sends notifications to help users stay on track with their sleep health objectives. The smart alarm feature aims to wake users during lighter sleep phases, potentially making mornings less jarring.

For those serious about improving their sleep habits, AutoSleep provides a comprehensive toolset that leverages Apple Watch capabilities effectively. The depth of data and analysis makes it suitable for casual users and sleep enthusiasts alike.

4. Things 3

Things 3 stands out as one of the most elegant task management apps available for Apple Watch. This award-winning app helps users plan their day, manage projects, and make progress toward goals while maintaining exceptional ease of use.

The Apple Watch version of Things 3 brings your to-do lists directly to your wrist. Users can quickly check tasks and mark them complete on the go without needing to pull out their iPhone. The clean interface makes it easy to stay organized even on the small watch screen.

Things 3 offers a beautiful design that looks particularly good on Apple Watch. The app utilizes the watch interface effectively, presenting your tasks in a readable format that maintains the aesthetics the app is known for.

Users appreciate the large complication option that displays upcoming tasks directly on watch faces. This feature provides immediate access to your most important to-dos with just a glance at your wrist.

The synchronization between devices happens seamlessly. Tasks created on iPhone or Mac appear instantly on the Apple Watch, ensuring users always have their current task list available wherever they are.

Many consider Things 3 to be the best task management app in the Apple ecosystem. While it comes with a premium price tag compared to some alternatives, the quality of experience justifies the cost for many dedicated users.

The watch app complements the broader Things ecosystem perfectly. It doesn’t try to replicate every feature from the phone app but instead focuses on quick actions that make sense on a wearable device.

For Apple Watch users who value both functionality and aesthetics, Things 3 delivers an exceptional experience. The app has earned praise for being powerful yet simple enough for users with varying organizational needs.

5. Fantastical

Fantastical stands out as a premier calendar application for Apple Watch users. This award-winning calendar app offers powerful features while maintaining an intuitive interface that works perfectly on the small watch screen.

One of Fantastical’s most appreciated capabilities is its natural language text parsing. This feature allows users to quickly add events by simply typing or dictating phrases like “lunch with Sarah tomorrow at noon” instead of manually filling out multiple fields.

The app provides beautiful full calendar views that are optimized for the Apple Watch display. Users can easily navigate between day, week, and other calendar views to stay on top of their schedule.

Fantastical on Apple Watch includes three main views that are accessible by tapping the ellipses in the top left corner of the app. This design makes navigation simple even on the smaller watch screen.

The app offers helpful complications that can be added to various watch faces. These complications display upcoming appointments and events at a glance, making it easy to stay informed without opening the app.

Users particularly appreciate the Launch Fantastical complication which provides quick access to their calendar. This proves especially useful for activities like tracking energy levels during different events throughout the day.

6. Mindfulness

Taking care of mental health is just as important as physical fitness, and Apple Watch offers excellent options for mindfulness practice. The dedicated Mindfulness app comes pre-installed on Apple Watch, providing users with guided breathing and reflection sessions.

This built-in app includes Breathe and Reflect features designed to help users pause throughout their day for brief moments of mindfulness. These short sessions can be easily integrated into a busy schedule.

For those seeking more comprehensive meditation guidance, Headspace stands out as a top choice. It offers expert-guided sessions focusing on stress reduction, better sleep, and overall happiness. Many reviewers consider it the best meditation app for most people seeking convenient mindfulness practice.

Apple Fitness+ also provides meditation content, though some users note there may not be enough variety for daily use without repetition. This option works well for those already using the Fitness+ service for workouts.

The Meditate app offers another excellent option, functioning as both a meditation tracker and timer. It serves as a helpful companion for those wanting to maintain a consistent practice.

Most mindfulness apps for Apple Watch provide haptic feedback to guide breathing exercises without requiring users to look at the screen. This feature enhances the meditative experience by allowing full focus on the practice itself.

Regular use of these mindfulness apps can help reduce stress, improve focus, and promote better sleep. Even short sessions of 1-5 minutes can provide meaningful benefits when practiced consistently.

The watchOS interface makes mindfulness practices accessible with just a few taps, allowing users to integrate mental wellness into their daily routines without disruption to their schedule.

7. Petey

Petey stands out as a versatile AI assistant app for Apple Watch users who want ChatGPT-like capabilities right on their wrist. This AI-powered personal assistant brings the power of large language models to the compact screen of the Apple Watch.

The app allows users to interact with GPT technology directly from their Apple Watch, making it easy to get quick answers or assistance while on the go. Users don’t need to pull out their phones to access AI help anymore.

Petey has expanded beyond its initial Watch-only offering. It now works on iPhone and iPad devices as well, bringing its functionality to all Apple mobile platforms. This cross-device capability makes it a versatile choice for Apple users.

The interface is designed specifically for the small screen of Apple Watch, with simple controls that work well on the limited display area. Text responses are formatted to be readable on the watch face.

Users can ask Petey questions, request information, or get creative assistance through simple voice or text commands. The app processes natural language effectively, making interactions feel conversational.

According to user discussions on Reddit, Petey also handles different languages, including German prompts. This multilingual support expands its usefulness for international users.

The app requires a subscription after the initial trial period. This subscription model helps support ongoing development and server costs for the AI processing.

For Apple Watch users seeking an AI assistant that’s always accessible on their wrist, Petey provides a convenient solution. It brings powerful AI capabilities to the smallest Apple device, making information and assistance available with just a glance at your wrist.

8. Pedometer Plus

Pedometer Plus is a standout app for Apple Watch users who want to track their daily steps without complexity. The app offers a clean interface that makes viewing your step count quick and easy. It’s designed to be simple and effective without overwhelming users with too many features.

One of the best things about Pedometer Plus is that it doesn’t collect personal data, which is important for privacy-conscious users. The app works smoothly on both iPhone and Apple Watch, providing consistent step tracking throughout the day.

Unlike some fitness apps that require subscriptions, Pedometer Plus offers its core functionality without ongoing costs. This makes it accessible for users who just want basic step counting without committing to a monthly fee.

The app displays steps in an easy-to-read format that allows users to quickly check their progress. Daily, weekly, and monthly views help track patterns in physical activity over time.

For Apple Watch owners who appreciate minimal design, Pedometer Plus delivers exactly what they need without unnecessary features. The watch complication makes checking steps possible with just a glance at your wrist.

Users looking for a reliable step counter should consider Pedometer Plus as an alternative to more complex fitness apps. Its focused approach makes it perfect for those who primarily want to monitor their daily walking activity.

The straightforward design makes it suitable for users of all ages and tech comfort levels. Even those new to Apple Watch can easily understand and use this app right away.

9. Vitals

Vitals is one of the most useful health tracking apps available for Apple Watch users. This application brings together key health metrics to give users a deeper understanding of their daily health status.

Released with watchOS 11, the Vitals app tracks five important health metrics: heart rate, respiratory rate, wrist temperature, blood oxygen, and sleep duration. These measurements are taken overnight while the user sleeps.

The app presents this information in a simple, easy-to-understand interface. Each morning, users can check their Vitals dashboard to see how their body is doing compared to their personal baseline.

What makes Vitals particularly valuable is its ability to detect potential health issues before symptoms appear. Some users have reported that the app detected illness days before they felt sick, primarily through changes in wrist temperature readings.

The Vitals app on Apple Watch provides insights that previously required separate devices like Oura Ring or Whoop. This integration makes the Apple Watch an even more comprehensive health monitoring tool.

Users can view their data within the Vitals app on their watch or check more detailed information in the Health app on their iPhone. The app automatically establishes personal baselines after tracking for a few weeks.

No subscription is required to use Vitals, making it an excellent value for Apple Watch owners. The app comes pre-installed on compatible Apple Watch models running watchOS 11 or newer.

10. Workout

Workout is one of the built-in fitness apps that comes pre-installed on every Apple Watch. It offers a comprehensive set of features for tracking various physical activities and exercises.

The app provides tracking for over 80 workout types, making it versatile enough for most fitness enthusiasts. Users can monitor metrics like heart rate, calories burned, distance covered, and workout duration in real time.

One of the standout features is the automatic workout detection. The Apple Watch can sense when you’ve started exercising and will prompt you to record the workout if you forget to start it manually.

For runners and cyclists, the app offers detailed pace and distance tracking with GPS mapping. This functionality makes it easier to analyze routes and performance improvements over time.

The Workout app seamlessly integrates with Apple’s Health app, storing all activity data in one centralized location. This integration creates a complete picture of your fitness journey.

Recent updates have added advanced metrics like running power and heart rate zones. These features help users better understand their performance and training intensity.

For swimmers, the app offers water resistance and stroke detection capabilities. It can identify different swimming styles and calculate accurate calorie burn based on your specific activity.

Many users appreciate the turn by turn navigation features when exercising outdoors. This helps runners and hikers stay on course during their workouts.

The app’s interface is intuitive and easy to navigate even during intense exercise. Large, readable text and simple controls make it accessible when you’re on the move.

For gym-goers, Workout provides strength training options with rep counting capabilities. This feature helps track progress with weights and resistance exercises over time.

The app’s integration with Apple Fitness+ subscription service offers guided workouts directly on your wrist. This creates a complete fitness ecosystem within Apple’s suite of products.

Features of Top Apple Watch Apps

Apple Watch apps offer unique capabilities that extend beyond basic timekeeping. The best apps leverage the watch’s hardware while providing seamless experiences that enhance daily life.

User Interface and Design

Top Apple Watch apps feature intuitive interfaces designed specifically for the small screen. They use large touch targets and simplified navigation to make interaction easy while on the move.

Most successful apps employ the Digital Crown for smooth scrolling through content without obscuring the display. Todoist exemplifies this approach with its clean list format that users can quickly scan.

Color coding is another common feature in well-designed apps. Apps like Carrot Weather use distinct colors to indicate different conditions at a glance.

Complications—small visual elements on the watch face—allow users to access information without opening the full app. The best apps offer multiple complication sizes and types to suit different watch faces.

Integration with iOS Ecosystem

Premium Apple Watch apps synchronize seamlessly with their iPhone counterparts. Data flows between devices automatically, ensuring information remains current regardless of which device is used.

Many top apps utilize Apple’s Handoff feature, allowing users to start a task on their watch and continue on their iPhone. This proves particularly useful for apps requiring more detailed input.

Notification management is another integration highlight. Quality apps send smart alerts that provide just enough information without overwhelming users. Users can typically customize notification preferences specifically for their watch.

iCloud syncing ensures app data remains consistent across all Apple devices. When a user makes changes on their watch, those updates reflect on their iPhone, iPad, and Mac almost instantly.

Health and Fitness Tracking Capabilities

Health-focused Apple Watch apps leverage the device’s advanced sensors to monitor vital statistics. Heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and sleep patterns are commonly tracked metrics in top health apps.

Workout apps offer specialized tracking for different activities. They measure calories burned, distance covered, and even provide custom metrics for sports like swimming, cycling, and hiking.

Many fitness apps include guided workout routines with on-screen instructions and haptic feedback to signal transitions between exercises. These features help users maintain proper form without constantly checking their watch.

Goal setting and achievement tracking motivate users to maintain healthy habits. Progress rings, badges, and personalized insights based on historical data are standard in quality health apps.

Recovery monitoring is becoming increasingly important. Premium apps analyze workout intensity and rest patterns to recommend optimal training schedules and prevent overexertion.

How Apple Watch Apps Enhance Productivity

The Apple Watch has evolved beyond a simple timepiece into a powerful productivity tool. Apps designed specifically for this wearable device can streamline daily tasks and help users stay organized without constant phone checking.

Time Management Tools

Time management apps on Apple Watch help users make the most of their day through seamless scheduling and reminders. The native Calendar app displays upcoming appointments with complications that show the next event directly on the watch face.

Pomodoro timer apps encourage focused work sessions by vibrating when it’s time to take a break. These eliminate distractions that might otherwise pull users away from important tasks.

Task management apps like Things and Todoist offer streamlined interfaces that make checking off items satisfying and quick. Users can dictate new tasks using voice input rather than typing on a tiny screen.

Timer and alarm applications provide gentle haptic feedback that’s perfect for staying on schedule without disturbing others. This tactile notification system makes the watch particularly valuable in professional settings where phone alerts would be disruptive.

Communication and Connectivity

Apple Watch excels at keeping users connected without the distraction of a full smartphone. The Messages app allows quick replies through dictation, emoji, or preset responses when a detailed message isn’t necessary.

Email apps provide notification filtering so only the most important messages reach the wrist. This helps professionals stay informed without constant interruption.

SwiftUI-based productivity apps leverage the watch’s unique interface to deliver streamlined communication tools specifically designed for quick interactions.

Phone call management through the watch allows users to screen calls without pulling out their phone. Important calls can be answered directly from the wrist, while others can be declined with custom messages.

Voice memo apps enable quick thought-capture during meetings or while commuting. These recordings sync automatically with other Apple devices for later reference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Apple Watch apps can transform how users interact with their device. These apps enhance productivity, fitness tracking, and everyday convenience through clever use of the watch’s unique features.

What are the top rated free apps available for the Apple Watch?

Several highly-rated free apps stand out in the Apple Watch ecosystem. The Apple Watch App Store offers numerous no-cost options that deliver significant value.

Water Reminder tops the list for helping users stay hydrated throughout the day with customizable notifications. Strava remains one of the most popular free fitness tracking apps, offering comprehensive workout data.

Other noteworthy free options include the native Apple Workout app, Spotify (free tier with limitations), and Carrot Weather’s basic version.

Which Apple Watch apps offer the best customization for watch faces?

Apps that excel at watch face customization provide users with both functionality and personalization. Fantastical offers excellent calendar complications that display upcoming events directly on watch faces.

Things 3 provides task-based complications that integrate seamlessly with Apple’s watch face designs. For weather enthusiasts, Carrot Weather delivers highly customizable complications with various data points.

Other strong options include WatchSmith and Color Widgets, which allow users to create unique complications with custom colors and information displays.

What are the essential apps for optimizing the functionality of the Apple Watch Series 9?

The Apple Watch Series 9 benefits from apps that leverage its advanced processing power and display. AutoSleep Track Sleep on Watch utilizes the Series 9’s sensors to provide detailed sleep analytics.

Things 3 takes advantage of the faster processor for seamless task management. The enhanced screen makes apps like Fantastical more readable and functional than on previous models.

Other recommended apps include Workout apps that benefit from improved sensors and battery efficiency for longer tracking sessions.

Can Android users utilize any apps that are compatible with the Apple Watch?

Android users face significant limitations with Apple Watch compatibility. The Apple Watch requires an iPhone for setup and core functionality, making direct Android integration impossible.

Some third-party apps with both Android and iOS versions may sync data to cloud services accessible from either platform. However, direct control of Apple Watch apps from Android devices is not possible.

Android users interested in smartwatch functionality should explore alternatives like Samsung Galaxy Watch or watches running Wear OS.

What are the must-have applications for the Apple Watch Ultra to maximize its features?

The Apple Watch Ultra’s expanded capabilities call for specialized apps. Fitness tracking apps like Strava take advantage of the Ultra’s enhanced GPS accuracy and extended battery life.

Outdoor enthusiasts benefit from apps like Hoolan which can track sessions with the Ultra’s improved durability and water resistance. Navigation apps like Workoutdoors maximize the larger display and precision tracking.

The Ultra’s improved speaker and microphone also enhance communication apps and voice memo functionality in noisy outdoor environments.

Which apps are highly recommended for enhancing the experience of Apple Watch Series 3 users?

Despite being an older model, Series 3 watches can still benefit from optimized apps. Lightweight apps like Water Reminder run efficiently without taxing the older processor.

Basic versions of fitness apps provide essential tracking without requiring the latest sensors. Apple’s native apps like Timer, Weather, and Workout are optimized to perform well on Series 3 hardware.

Users should be selective about installations to preserve storage space, focusing on essential utilities rather than graphics-heavy games or complex apps that may cause performance issues.

• Current price: $200
• Original price: $250

The nice thing about buying one of Oura’s earlier model smart rings is you’ll get the same app and software experience — just a different form factor and one less day of battery life. If prospective Oura Ring buyers don’t mind this, they should opt for the Oura Ring 3, which has reduced its price by around 20% since the Oura Ring 4’s debut.

The Oura Ring tracks your daily sleep, stress, activity, and readiness to deliver scores, insights, and recommendations. It’s a great health tracker for people looking to optimize their sleep and activity routine, but who want gentle recommendations and encouragements that won’t make them feel bad about a poor night of sleep or a day of low activity. It’s constantly innovating with new features, like a Cardiovascular Age feature that tells you if your physiological age is ahead, behind, or at your chronological age. Plus, it partners with other health brands, like Dexcom, so you can keep track of your glucose levels on the Oura app if you use its Stelo continuous glucose monitor. 

The smart ring is compatible with Android and iOS phones, so everybody can use it to capture data. The only downside of an Oura Ring is its $70 annual subscription (which is not on sale) to unlock all that data it collects and displays. The Ring Gen 3 is also an sale in select finishes and sizes at Oura. 

Acer has recently released a new line of portable monitors that could change how you work and collaborate on the go. With models like the PD163QT and PD243Y E, you’re not just getting a basic external screen—you’re getting thoughtful features like Full HD resolution, touchscreen capabilities, and flexible designs that make multitasking and sharing your screen much easier.

These displays stand out in portable monitors. They are usually simple and built just for convenience. Acer’s new models, however, add extra features that give you more ways to use them, whether you’re in a meeting, travelling, or want a second screen for your laptop.

Touchscreen support and foldable design

The PD163QT grabs your attention straight away with its touchscreen feature—a rare find among portable monitors. It makes working with your hands feel natural, whether you’re drawing, sketching, or just scrolling through files. If you prefer interacting directly with your screen, this could be a game changer.

The PD163QT and PD243Y E are Full HD (1920×1080) displays, offering clear picture quality with wide viewing angles. Moreover, they can be folded up to 315°, a smart design choice that helps in group settings or when giving a presentation. You can easily prop them up at various angles, and the foldable design gives you more freedom than typical flat displays.

However, it’s worth noting that the “dual-screen” label might be confusing. These monitors don’t each have two screens—instead, Acer is promoting the idea of using the PD163QT and PD243Y E together to create a dual-screen setup. Each model still has just one display panel.

Smooth visuals and eye comfort features

The PD243Y E has a 100Hz refresh rate and flicker-free technology, which may help reduce eye strain during long sessions. While this higher refresh rate might not make a big difference if you’re typing documents or checking emails, it does offer a smoother experience when scrolling or switching between apps.

Acer has also included its VisionCare technology across the lineup. This feature protects your eyes during extended use, making these monitors more suitable for long workdays or study sessions.

If you’re a Mac user, though, be aware that these monitors aren’t specially made for macOS. They’ll still work as general-purpose displays, but they might not match your MacBook Pro’s screen quality, especially regarding colour accuracy or aspect ratio. So, if you care about perfect visuals and smooth macOS integration, these may not be your first choice.

Portable options and high-end models for creatives

If you’re looking for something even more compact, Acer has also launched the PM191Q E. It’s a slimmer option with an adjustable kickstand, Full HD resolution, and a 100Hz refresh rate. Like the others, it’s portable and even VESA-mountable if you want to fix it to a wall or desk.

Still, all of these models have a 1080p resolution. While that’s fine for everyday use, it’s something to consider if you need ultra-sharp visuals or are used to working on a 4K screen.

On the premium end, Acer’s new ProCreator Series targets creative professionals. These monitors come in 4K and even 6K options and are packed with high-end features like touch input, colour accuracy rated at Delta E<1, and wide colour support. Some models, including the PE320QXT and PE270XT, also offer tools like split-screen modes and built-in webcams—perfect if you’re doing design work, video editing, or want a top-quality business display.

Prices across the entire lineup range from US$180 to US$1,999, depending on the model and region. Whether you’re looking for a light travel companion or a powerhouse monitor for creative work, Acer’s new releases have something for nearly everyone.

Since GoPro purchased the Australian smart motorcycle helmet company Forcite last year, the two-wheeled world has been waiting to see what the action camera giant can do if it applied its technology to rider safety equipment.

Now, GoPro has announced that it will work with Italian helmet manufacturer AGV on its debut line of action camera-enabled lids, which are tipped to feature its built -in sensor and lens technology that will allow riders to capture POV footage without the need to mount an additional camera and other accessories.

Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

(WASHINGTON) — President Donald Trump has disrupted global trade and roiled markets in an effort to bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. Some of his top tech allies, however, have backed ventures that replace human workers with robots.

Elon Musk, a top donor and adviser to Trump, has touted humanoid robots as a future growth area for electric-carmaker Tesla. “You can produce any product,” Musk said of the robots’ potential capacity during a February interview with Dubai’s World Governments Summit.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who Trump last month called “terrific,” has invested in several advanced robotics firms.

Bezos last year poured funds into Figure, a humanoid robot company that says its initial rollout will focus on manufacturers and warehouses, among other business applications. “We believe humanoids will revolutionize a variety of industries,” the company says on its website.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman – both of whom joined Trump on his recent trip to the Middle East – helmed their respective companies as each invested in Figure. OpenAI ended its partnership with Figure last year.

“Trump is talking about bringing back the jobs, and he’s not understanding the tension between that goal and automation, which the tech bros have enthusiasm for,” Harry Holzer, a professor of public policy at Georgetown University and a former chief economist at the U.S. Department of Labor, told ABC News. “There’s a fundamental conflict between those goals.”

Musk did not immediately respond to ABC News’ request for comment made through Musk-owned firm SpaceX. Neither Bezos, Huang nor Altman responded to ABC News’ request.

Speaking at a conference in April, Huang said the onset of artificial intelligence would fuel “new types of factories,” which in turn would create jobs in construction and steelmaking, as well as in trades such as plumbing and electricity.

Even more, Huang said, AI is set to trigger a surge in productivity at companies that adopt the new technology, allowing them to add employees as the firms increase output and revenue.

“New jobs will be created, some jobs will be lost, every job will be changed,” Huang said. “Remember, it’s not AI that’s going to take your job. It’s not AI that’s going to destroy your company. It’s the company and the person who uses AI that’s going to take your job. And so that’s something to internalize.”

Even after a rollback of some levies, consumers face the highest overall average effective tariff rate since 1934, the Yale Budget Lab found earlier this month.

A key reason for the tariffs, White House officials say: Reshoring factories and rejuvenating employment in the manufacturing industry.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said this month in an interview with Fox News that Trump’s vision for ushering in a “golden age” for America involved enticing manufacturers to open factories and build in the United States.

“We’re going to have huge jobs in manufacturing. You’ve heard the president talk about trillions and trillions of factories being built in America,” he said in the interview on May 11.

In response to ABC News’ request for comment, White House Spokesperson Kush Desai said “the importance of President Trump’s push to reinvigorate American industry goes beyond creating good-paying jobs for everyday Americans.”

“Supply chain shocks of critical pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and semiconductors during the COVID era prove that America cannot rely on foreign imports. The Trump administration remains committed to reshoring manufacturing that’s critical to our national and economic security with a multifaceted approach of tariffs, tax cuts, rapid deregulation, and domestic energy production,” Desai added.

The share of U.S. workers in manufacturing has plummeted for decades. Roughly 8% of U.S. workers currently hold positions in manufacturing, which marks a steep decline from about a quarter of all employees as recently as 1970.

Researchers attribute such decline to overlapping trends, including the offshoring of manufacturing to low-wage markets overseas and the adoption of labor-saving technology throughout the sector.

Long before current advances, automation significantly increased productivity in U.S. factories, meaning the same number of workers could produce many more goods, researchers at Ball State University found in 2015. As a result, they said, manufacturing employment stagnated for decades even as output climbed.

“Automation is something we’ve seen for a long time,” Philipp Kircher, a professor of industrial and labor relations at Cornell University, told ABC News.

Some of Trump’s tech allies have backed firms that seek to further automate manufacturing, touting a new wave of artificial-intelligence equipped robots as a replacement for some workers and salve for labor shortages.

Robotics outfit Vicarious boasts $250 million in investments from a set of backers that includes Bezos, Musk and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg – all of whom flanked Trump during his inauguration.

On a webpage displaying photos of robots for use in warehouse settings, Vicarious tells potential clients that the products can “reduce both your costs and person-hour needs.”

In 2022, Vicarious was acquired by Alphabet-backed robotics software firm Intrinsic. Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai also sat alongside tech leaders at Trump’s inauguration.

Alphabet did not respond to ABC News’ request for comment. Meta declined to comment.

Yong Suk Lee, a professor of economics and technology at the University of Notre Dame, described the views on automation among Trump’s tech allies and some of his trade advisers as “opposed.”

The tech position, Lee said, would likely win out, even if some firms do open plants in the U.S.

“If you want to reshore, are you going to pay the same wages as Vietnam? Probably not,” Lee said. “Companies are faced with higher labor costs. In that case, they’ll probably automate.”

Discordant views among some tech leaders and White House officials surfaced in April, when Musk sharply criticized tariff-advocate Peter Navarro, Trump’s senior counselor for trade and manufacturing. Navarro, Musk said, is “truly a moron.”

In an interview with CNBC, Navarro responded, saying Musk “isn’t a car manufacturer — he’s a car assembler.”

To be sure, analysts said, automation in manufacturing would likely continue regardless of support from Trump’s tech allies, since producers are locked in a competition to lower costs and increase output. The precise outlook for manufacturing employment is unclear, they added, since additional technology may add jobs for those maintaining and optimizing the machinery.

“Whether it’s the companies that currently support the U.S. president or not, somebody would be doing this innovation, maybe slightly slower,” Kircher said.

Even at current employment levels, a labor shortage bedevils U.S. manufacturers. Roughly one of every five U.S. factories that failed to produce at full capacity cited a shortage of workers, Jason Miller, a professor of supply chain management at Michigan State University, found in a January study analyzing government data.

Agility Robots, an Amazon-backed firm building humanoid robots, identifies the current push for rejuvenated U.S. manufacturing as an opportunity for greater adoption of technology.

“Manufacturing companies are seeing a massive reshoring movement spanning various industries,” Agility Robots says on its website. “Adding a humanoid robot to your manufacturing facility is a great way to stay on the leading edge of automation.”

In response to ABC News’ request for comment, an Amazon spokesperson pointed to previous remarks about robotics made by a company executive.

“Our goal is to ensure these systems improve safety and productivity. Technology should be used to help us retain and grow our talent through skill development and reimagining how we make our workplace better, both in productivity and safety. If we do this well, we’re certain to always innovate for our customers,” Tye Brady, chief technologist at Amazon Robotics, said in a September blog post.

Amazon has “created more U.S. jobs in the last decade than any other company,” Amazon said this month.

Copyright © 2025, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.

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Mistral AI, the French company behind AI assistant Le Chat and a growing range of powerful models, is quickly becoming one of Europe’s most talked-about tech startups. While its global market share remains small compared to giants like OpenAI, it’s seen by many as the continent’s best chance at competing in the fast-moving world of artificial intelligence. That status was further confirmed when French President Emmanuel Macron publicly recommended Mistral’s chatbot over its American rival ChatGPT, just ahead of the AI Action Summit in Paris.

A closer look at Mistral AI and its growing tech offerings

Founded in 2023, Mistral AI entered the scene with a clear goal: to make advanced AI widely accessible. Its slogan, “Put frontier AI in the hands of everyone,” captures its mission to promote openness and independence in the AI space. Although it doesn’t name OpenAI directly, the message is clear—it’s offering an alternative vision for how AI can be shared and used.

One of Mistral AI’s most recognisable offerings is its chatbot, Le Chat. The app has seen strong adoption since launching on iOS and Android, with over 1 million downloads in just two weeks. It shot to the top of the iOS free app chart in France, a sign of strong local support.

But Mistral’s ambitions don’t stop at chat apps. The company has rolled out several advanced AI models for various tasks. Mistral Large 2 replaced its first large model as the main language tool. In 2024, Mistral unveiled Pixtral Large, a model that understands both text and visuals. May 2025 brought the release of Mistral Medium 3, aimed at providing efficiency without losing performance—particularly useful for coding and STEM-related tasks.

Another key model, Devstral, is open and available under the Apache 2.0 licence, making it free even for commercial purposes. This contrasts with earlier tools like Codestral, which couldn’t be used for business. Mistral’s “Les Ministraux” family of models is designed for devices like phones, while Mistral Saba focuses on Arabic language use. In March 2025, Mistral added Mistral OCR to its portfolio—a tool that can convert any PDF into readable text, making it easier for AI to process.

Founders, funding, and business strategy

Mistral AI was founded by three experienced researchers: CEO Arthur Mensch, formerly of DeepMind; CTO Timothée Lacroix; and chief scientist Guillaume Lample, who came from Meta. Alongside them are key advisors like Jean-Charles Samuelian-Werve and Charles Gorintin of health-tech firm Alan, as well as former digital minister Cédric O. His involvement caused some debate due to his previous government role, but he remains closely tied to the startup’s direction.

Although Mistral offers several free tools, the company also focuses on generating income. In February 2025, it launched a paid version of Le Chat, called the Pro plan, which costs US$14.99 monthly. On the business-to-business side, companies can pay to access Mistral’s best-performing models through API use or full licensing agreements. Despite its modest scale compared to US firms, Mistral AI’s revenue has already reached the eight-digit mark, according to reports.

Big-name partnerships and plans for the future

The company’s partnerships are helping it expand quickly. In 2024, Microsoft invested €15 million and agreed to distribute Mistral’s models through its Azure cloud platform. Though the deal was small enough to avoid an investigation by the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority, it still sparked a conversation within the European Union about tech influence.

More recently, Mistral AI teamed up with Agence France-Presse (AFP), giving Le Chat access to AFP’s full-text archive from 1983 onwards. This makes the chatbot one of the few with access to such a large, trusted news database.

Other strategic partners include the French army, France’s job agency, major shipping firm CMA, German defence startup Helsing, IBM, telecom provider Orange, and carmaker Stellantis. In May 2025, the company revealed it would join a national initiative to create an AI Campus in the Paris area, marking another step in its efforts to shape the future of AI in France and across Europe.

Mistral AI may not yet be a global household name. Still, it’s quickly gaining ground with its fresh take on AI development, open model strategy, and support from both government and industry leaders. If you’re watching the AI space, it’s one company you’ll want to keep an eye on.