The Apple Watch Series 12 introduces internal hardware improvements including a faster S11 chip and redesigned sensor array that enable continuous heart rate monitoring and new AI health features, positioning it as a significant upgrade despite its unchanged external design. While many advanced AI-powered features won't launch until later this year, the Series 12 marks Apple's entry into a new era of AI-powered wearables that aim to synthesize health data and provide personalized insights.
Google rolled out its September Pixel Drop with updates across Pixel phones, tablets, and watches. The update enhances VIP contacts with one-tap calling and texting, expands Scam Detection to more languages and regions, and adds new smartwatch gestures. A Harry Potter Audiobook partnership offers wallpaper and icon customization with a two-month Audible trial.
Casio has launched the G-Shock GBA-9501A in the UK market, a fitness-focused watch featuring step tracking, GPS compatibility, and smartphone app integration. The model joins other G-Squad variants and improves upon the earlier GBA-900 series with a slimmer, lighter design while maintaining water resistance and dual-time functionality.
Apple announced always-listening features for Apple Watches including Live Rewind and Siri Recap, which capture and summarize ambient audio. While Apple claims strong privacy protections with end-to-end encryption, critics warn the technology normalizes surveillance, may violate state recording consent laws, and sets a precedent for other companies to develop similar invasive features with weaker safeguards.
Apple announced always-listening features for Apple Watches including Live Rewind and Siri Recap, which process ambient audio without storing it. While Apple emphasizes privacy protections for users, critics warn the technology threatens the privacy of non-users and may normalize intrusive surveillance by other companies, with potential legal issues in states requiring all-party recording consent.
Google has certified a new smartwatch model (G8BL6) with the FCC, featuring GPS, Android operating system, and a metal frame. The device appeared in leaked Pixel 11 adverts alongside the Pixel Watch 5 before being removed, though Google has made no official announcement about the product.
Apple unveiled the Apple Watch Series 12 at its Surprise and Shine event, featuring the new S11 chip for more frequent health sensor readings and AI features, while maintaining the same $399 starting price and 24-hour battery life as the Series 11. The Series 12 is virtually identical in design to its predecessor but adds a ceramic case option and improved sensor placement; it begins shipping September 18.
Apple announced the Apple Watch Series 12 during its September 9 event, featuring the new S11 chip and double the memory (4GB vs. 2GB) of the Series 11, though Apple didn't publicly mention the RAM upgrade. The Series 12 maintains the same external design and pricing as its predecessor, with modest upgrades including more durable Ceramic Shield 2 glass and new color options.