watchOS 8 is an operating system that was designed and developed by Apple in 2021. The system has been released on September 20, 2021, and was preinstalled on the new Apple Watch Series 7 and distributed as an update through the iPhone for the previous Watch Series. This software gets the latest update (8.7.1) on August 17, 2022, and has been replaced by watchOS 9.
watchOS 8 brings new functionality called Focus Mode, which has been designed to filter notifications and hold them for later while is enabled. Focus Mode can be enabled for various occasions, such as sleep, driving, or work. Users can select the apps and notifications that will be shown while Focus Mode is enabled. Focus Mode can also be enabled seamlessly with a user’s routine, such as at specific times of the day, or upon arriving at a location.
The Home app has been rebuilt to access in an easier way HomeKit accessories and scenes as needed. From now users can control cameras or intercom on the wrist and see who is at the door.
In the Workout app has been added two new workout types have; Tai Chi and Pilates. Apple Fitness+ users are gaining Picture in Picture support, filter options, and options to stop or resume workouts in progress on any device. The Breath app has been replaced by the Mindfulness app which now offers Reflect and enhanced Breathe sessions.
The Wallet app now is offering support for digital car keys, digital keys for unlocking doors, and the possibility to add a driver’s license or State ID in some states of the U.S.
Find my app has been divided into three apps; Find Devices, Find Items, and Find People. The Photos app has been redesigned with new ways to view and navigate photos. Has been added the new Portrait Watch Face which pulls portrait photos into a beautiful Watch Face. The Weather app now supports Severe Weather notifications.
The Messages app has been redesigned way how users can scribble the text, dictate messages, or send emojis. From now Apple Watch supports sending GIFs. When it comes to connectivity, watchOS 8 brings the Contacts app to the Watch to easily manage contacts and be in touch with people when an iPhone isn’t available.
There are many updates in the AssistiveTouch feature, Health app, Maps app, Now Playing app, Phone app, Podcasts App, Timers app, Stopwatch app, Voice Memos app, and more.
This version of watchOS is available for all Watch Series supported by watchOS 7. However, Apple Watch Series 3 gets limited support which means some features are not available on this watch.
Today watchOS 8 is 30 months old!
watchOS 8 – General information
| Introduced | June 7, 2021 |
| Released | September 20, 2021 |
| Original Price | Free |
| System Requirements | Apple Watch Series 3 Apple Watch Series 4 Apple Watch Series 5 Apple Watch Series 6 Apple Watch Series 7 Apple Watch SE iPhone 6s / iPhone 6s Plus or later iOS 15 or later |
| Distribution | Trough paired iPhone |
Versions
| Versions | Build | Release Date |
| watchOS 8.0 | 19R346 | September 20, 2021 |
| watchOS 8.0.1 | 19R354 | October 11, 2021 |
| watchOS 8.1 | 19R570 | October 25, 2021 |
| watchOS 8.1.1*1 | 19R580 | November 18, 2021 |
| watchOS 8.3 | 19S55 | December 13, 2021 |
| watchOS 8.4 | 19S546 | January 26, 2022 |
| watchOS 8.4.1*2 | 19S550 | February 1, 2022 |
| watchOS 8.4.2 | 19S553 | February 10, 2022 |
| watchOS 8.5 | 19T242 | March 14, 2022 |
| watchOS 8.5.1 | 19T252 | March 31, 2022 |
| watchOS 8.6 | 19T572 | May 16, 2022 |
| watchOS 8.7 | 19U66 | July 20, 2022 |
| watchOS 8.7.1 | 19U67 | August 17, 2022 |
*2 Apple Watch Series 4 and later only
