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Apple Watch 6 – Everything you need to know

Apple Watch 6 – Image Credit: Apple

It’s officially here! The Apple Watch 6 has been launched. It wasn’t alone for this release, though. The cost-effective Apple Watch SE and a host of other iPad products have burst onto the scene alongside it. There was some disappointment at a lack of iPhone 12, but what we get instead is a cheaper version of the iPad and a new iPad Air 4.

Let’s go through some of the things Apple covered about the Apple Watch 6 in their release.

When was the Apple Watch 6 released? 

The Apple Watch 6 was revealed on September 15 during a live-streamed event. 

Price

Your Apple Watch 6 will set you back $399.99 if you want the standard 40mm version. The larger 44mm will cost $429.99. It also comes in LTE-ready models, which are $499 and $529 for the 40mm and 44mm respectively.

New Apple Watch 6

So What are the new features in Apple Watch 6?

Design

Apple hasn’t done too much to the design of this latest release. If you put it side-by-side to an Apple Watch 4 or 5, there’s a lot of similarities. What the Apple Watch 6 does bring are new colour options.

There’s a new aluminium case in blue and you can pick up the stainless steel model in steel or gold. There’s also a really sleek black graphite option and a brand new colour to Apple, a red version.

The always-on display feature remains. It’s had some tinkering with and Apple have improved it. It’s now brighter by 2.5x than the predecessor. This is aimed at helping users see the display in various lighting conditions.

You no longer need to wake the watch fully to access either your control or notification centres. They are both accessible via your always-on display. It’s possible to change your watch face this way too.

Apple also announced a range of new bands for the Apple Watch 6. This includes new colours and styles. As for the latter, there’s now the Solo Loop and a Braided Solo Loop. Neither has a clasp and this means you need to stretch the band over your wrist to put it on.

Fitness features 

They were very excited to talk about the new fitness features. There’s an additional health sensor on the belly of the watch that will monitor blood oxygen levels. It does this through an app (called Blood Oxygen) and takes only 15 seconds to take a reading.

It’ll also take readings in the background, meaning it’ll collect data as you sleep or during the day as you go about your business. The information will be the basis of identifying any potential underlying health issues you might have.

Other than that, there’s not much else that’s new. You get features you’ve probably become familiar with already.

Battery life

The Apple Watch 6 is 20% faster than the Series 5, thanks to a new S6 processor.

Apple boasts up to 18 hours of battery life. This matches the Series 5, but the 6 charges faster. You can get a full charge in 90 minutes.

Additionally, there’s a new always-on altimeter. This provides the user with elevation data in real-time, all throughout the day. Apple claims that this will measure with such accuracy that it’ll pick up on changes as small as one foot.

Another feature Apple wasn’t as loud about revealing is is the U1 Ultrawideband chip in the watch range. You’ll see this chip in an iPhone 11 and what the rumour mill has been saying will be used in the eagerly-anticipated AirTags.

This means the Apple accessories containing the Ultra Wideband will have a very accurate, albeit short-range, communication standard for finding things like the AirTags (think Tiles, for comparison). You’ll be able to put these on the devices you want to keep safe and their location will pop up in apps like Find My, which, apparently, you can use on the Apple Watch 6.

Apple Watch wireless charging

Apple Watch 6 software

Naturally, you get the latest WearOS on the Apple Watch 6. In fact, Apple developed a new software version specifically in anticipation for this new model, in June fo this year.

WatchOS 7 allows you to collect data on your VO2 Max. This tells you if and when your blood oxygen levels are low.

Sleep tracking has had the most attention and the company claim this version supersedes all others in its capabilities.

You’ll find new and improved workouts and sleep tracking and even a COVID-related feature of tracking your hand-washing habits. Apparently, there are some big plans in progress for later release.

Apple watch 6 - against trees with emoji

Watch faces

Users are really spoiled with seven new watch faces to choose from.

These are part of the new WatchOS 7 so they weren’t designed exclusively for Apple Watch 6 users. In fact, you can share your face configurations with friends and family.

Should I buy an Apple Watch 6?

If you can afford it and you’re into having the latest gadget, then absolutely. Perhaps you’re seduced by the addition of being able to monitor your blood oxygen levels because you’re currently managing some health issues closely, then this will be a useful device for you. If you like the idea of having a never-before-seen Apple Watch colour, then go for the new red version and get people’s heads turning.

Apple watch activity watch face

If you’re not sure which Apple watch is best for you then we have created an easy comparison of all Apple offerings from the first generation to the Series 6 and SE. Check it out here.

Will you be investing the latest Apple Watch, let us know in the comments

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Apple Watch 6 – Pre Release

This information is pre-release of the apple watch 6. For an updated review of apple watch 6 – Click here. To Read more about the new Apple Watch SE – see this article.

Even though it is not currently on the market. We are expecting to see the latest Apple Watch 6 released late on in the year. However, there are plenty of rumors circulating about what we can expect. We have shared them with you so that you can get as excited as we are about this new piece of wrist tech!

Who Is The Apple Watch 6 Designed For?

Apple proudly claims that its products are for everyone, and its latest offering will be no different. Whether you want a watch that can track sport or monitor your health. Keep you in touch with loved ones or let you listen to music. The Apple Watch can do it all, and we expect that the newest series will be no different.

Apple owns over half the smartwatch market. This is not shocking when you consider how loved the brand is for their phones and computers. Owning an Apple Watch allows you to extend the way you control your life and communication, so it makes sense that so many of us are keen to get one on our wrist!

What Apple Fans Want From The New Apple Watch

There are so many rumours about the new watch but before we share those, let us take a look at the list of five things most Apple fans are keen to see on the new device:

  1. A round and smaller face that is less obvious on your wrist.
  2. Improved fitness tracking with more sports being added and a better system of feedback for your exercise efforts.
  3. A screen dimmer that lets you turn your screen up and down that suits your requirements.
  4. Improved battery life that means you do not need to charge it up every day.
  5. Sleep tracking from Apple that syncs to your health apps.

What Can We Expect From The New Apple Watch 6?

Let us get to the good stuff! Here are some of the current rumours that we have seen milling around!

Release Information

The current release date is touted to be in September 2020. Not a real shock when you consider that this is the time Apple tends to release their new phones and watches. Do not forget that you will need to wait ten days from the release announcement until you will be able to purchase the new kit.

Price

We expect the latest model to cost no less than the current Apple Watch Series 5. So expect the figure to start from £399 and increase from there!

Screen Type

One of the most expected changes is the screen type. Rumour has it that the new screen will be made using microLED which boasts better efficiency. Giving us hope that the battery life may also be longer with this new model!

Security System

Currently, we unlock our Apple Watches using a passcode. However, there is a rumour that the newest watch will boast some form of a biometric system that will let you into your device.

Design

When it comes to looks, we have heard that there will be very little difference from the previous watches. There is an argument that the current design is iconic and synonymous with Apple so they may want to capitalise on this.

Sleep Tracking

While you can currently use third-party apps to track your sleeping, Apple does not offer their own sleep tracking feature. Many people believe that we can now expect to see this in the latest model.

Health Tracking

The addition of the ECG capability impressed smartwatch users all over the world. The new watch is set to push these boundaries even further with blood oxygen monitoring. This can help to warn owners if they are at risk of cardiac arrest as well as an improved ECG system that can give you further information on the health of your heart.

Wellbeing Support

With the new oxygen monitoring, the Apple Watch 6 is set to offer better wellbeing support to wearers. You can expect it to warn you if you start to hyperventilate. Even if you have a panic attack and then help you to get help so that you are safe.

Improved Water Resistance

Even though the current Apple Watch is great in the water. The new model is set to improve what it offers. It is also said to be able to help warn you if you are in danger of drowning. Furthermore, being able to report your SOS to the nearest emergency services.

Goodbye To The Crown

Perhaps the most interesting revelation is the fact that the rotating crown is set to disappear on this model being replaced with a combination of a digital crown and a slide down button instead. This is meant to make it easier to get to what you need and will allow more functions to be put into use.

Should I Buy An Apple Watch 6?

When it comes to deciding if you should buy an Apple Watch 6, the answer really depends on the watch you currently have! If you are new to the Apple Watch then getting the latest model when it comes out will put you in an enviable position and mean that you can enjoy all the newest features as part of your everyday life.

However, if you have an Apple Watch 4 or 5, you may decide that there are already enough quality features in your current model, so there is no need to upgrade. In reality, true Apple fans will be keen to get their hands on the latest tech regardless of the model they currently have! If this applies to you, then there are plenty of others out there that will be happy to snap up your current watch for a bargain price, leaving your wrist free for the newest model in town!

Update!

The Apple Watch 6 is now available! Read more about it here.

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New Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS, 40mm) - Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band
New Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS, 40mm) - Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band
  • GPS model lets you take calls and reply to texts from your wrist
  • Measure your blood oxygen with an all-new sensor and app
  • Check your heart rhythm with the ECG app
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The History of the Apple Watch

Apple Watch

The Apple Watch has been constantly evolving since it was launched in 2015. More than 33 million Apple Watches have been sold since then, making it the single most successful watch in the world.

Five years is a long time in terms of technology and since 2015, Apple has released a new watch annually. The design has been refined and the features have certainly become more and more advanced.

The Apple Watch has health and fitness at the core, but that’s not all it does. So, let’s dive into its history.

The Pioneering Apple Watch of 2015

The first release features three versions. One was known as the ‘everyman edition’ and was made of stainless steel. The other was the Sport version which had wristbands to appeal to a more sporty audience, made of aluminium. The last was the Apple Watch Edition and this was made of no less than 18 carat gold.

The latter was marketed as a high-end fashion accessory. The price tag was a hefty $17k. However, it didn’t sell that well. In fact, it bombed and it was never mentioned again.

All three came in both 38mm and 42mm sizes. Furthermore, they all had Bluetooth and wifi capabilities and paired with the iPhone. It offered a digital crown, digital touch, force touch, multi-touch and a side button. It also had a heart rate sensor.

Apple Watch Series 1 – 2 of 2016

Secondly, we saw the first in what would become a line of updates to the Apple Watch. The overly-expensive Edition had, unsurprisingly, already been dropped like a hot potato. Next on the chopping block was the Sport.

Apple didn’t entirely drop the Sport, though and took its aluminium build to create what became known as the Series 1. Apple reduced the price slightly, making it a more accessible entry-level version. It retained some of the original features like the side button, digital touch, force touch, multi-touch and digital crown.

Alongside the Series 1, Apple brought the Series 2 to market. This model had the same aluminium build, but the main differentiator was the addition of GPS and the ability to pair the watch with an iPhone without the aid of the internet. Plus, losing the watch became a thing of the past!

Series 3 of (2017)

The next year saw the Series 3 launched. In this version, the biggest differentiator was the addition of a cellular feature, giving it the ability to connect to mobile internet and removing the requirement for pairing with an iPhone. It certainly offered a brand new sense of connectivity.

Other benefits included:

  • Calls and voicemail
  • Text messages
  • Reminders and alerts
  • Map features
  • Music streaming

Series 4 (2018)

The Series 4 had some major improvements, including a larger display at either 40mm or 44mm sizing, rather than the old 38mm or 42mm. 

The other big enhancement was the move to an electronic heart sensor (ECG), allowing wearers to know their heart rate at any time. Sure, this wasn’t a wildly new innovation but it had the ability to detect an unusually low or high heart rate, or other odd symptoms – potentially life-saving.

Series 5 (2019)

The Series 5 is undisputedly the best smartwatch in the world. It took everything that was good in the Series 3 and 4 and formed them into one sensational timepiece.

It looks amazing and offers incredible fitness features to match. Its notifications are slick and the app offering is better than ever. More branded non-native apps are appearing over time and the integration is seamless. Apple Pay is also now more widely accepted than ever.

Benefits:

  • The titanium edition is the more durable version ever
  • Incredibly in-depth fitness and health tracking
  • 32GB storage built-in
  • Always-on screen is a revelation for screen readability in all lighting 

Series 6 (2020)

The Series 6 was released in September last year. It maintained Apple’s reign as the most popular smartwatch manufacturer on earth. Adding to the excitement was the release of a new iPhone 12 model alongside the watch. 

Countup watch face on Apple watch 6

Sleep tracking ability is vastly improved. It’ll tell you data about the quality of your sleep via a native app. Nonetheless, most apple users tend to charge their phones at night.

Improved gym stats will be realised. You’ll be able to tell if you’re behind your goal targets and there’ll be more accurate heart rate monitoring during exercise. Apple has worked hard to create a new programme “Apple Connected” which will see a community of Apple-watch connected pieces of equipment work together to create a reward programme for Apple Watch wearers.

There’s talk of monitoring for people who need to manage their diabetes via blood glucose and pressure sensors.

It’s predicted that there will be some improvements to the design, which is long-awaited at this point. There hasn’t been much change since the Series 3. 

It’ll be offered in 4 models which are essentially all aluminium but either cellular or sport, or not.

If you’re not sure which Apple watch is best for you then we have created an easy comparison of all Apple offerings from the first generation to the Series 6 and SE. Check it out here.

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Is the Series 5 Apple Watch worth it?

Series 5 Apple Watch

This Series 5 Apple Watch is one of the best smartwatches you can buy. Let’s look at all the good things it offers.

Design

The Series 5 is an upgraded Series 4, with a couple of added features. Its price tag of $429 for the basic model is about the same and will buy you an aluminium body, with a 40mm screen, in Apple’s usual Gold, Silver or Space Grey colours.

The next step up sees a stainless steel finish for an additional cost which you can pick from Gold, Space Black, or Silver (“Stainless Steel” to Apple). New to the Series 5 is a titanium option. This comes in Space Black. Finally, there’s a ceramic option that comes in pure white that costs even more.

Straps are changeable, and Apple teamed up with both Nike and Hermes for special edition sports and leather straps.

There isn’t a lot of difference between the 4 and 5, mainly because there was so much evolution from the Series 3 into the 4. You get the classic iPhone look with curved edges and an almost edge-to-edge display. It has one simple side button that handles a multitude of functions. 

The biggest design advancement is the introduction of the titanium option, which is lighter but more durable.  

Features

The newest feature is the always-on display, a response to previous user complaints of having to move one’s wrist to wake up the display. It’s reactive, meaning it’s brighter when it’s needed, and dims when it isn’t. Some argue the always-on feature is a pain at night when you want to sleep. 

The newer features on the Series 5 aren’t about wowing users with new concepts, they’re more concerned with efficiency and performance. Some argue the always-on feature drains the battery: Apple argues it’s there to preserve it. 

It comes with improved navigation performance thanks to a built-in compass. The side button allows you to make international emergency calls, regardless of where you purchased or registered your phone. Paired with the fall detection function, this is potentially very useful! 

The Series 4 was already a fast performer, so any speed differences may be hard to spot. However, you get everything you’ve come to know and love with an Apple Watch – sleep tracking, breathing monitoring, heart rate monitoring and GPS.

Battery Life

Apple suggests you’ll get 18 hours out of the Series 5; essentially a day and evening and then you’ll need to put it on charge overnight. This mirrors the Series 4, and assumes moderate use.

Software 

The update to watchOS (6) has added a few more features. Health and fitness tracking has improved, women can now monitor and track menstrual cycles accurately and there are added activity tracking options. 

There are also new noise level alerts that tell you if your surroundings are too loud and may damage your hearing. The new features include the ability to change watch faces and Siri capabilities that allow you to ask what song is currently playing or search the internet.

Apple Watch Series 5 (GPS, 44mm) - Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band
Apple Watch Series 5 (GPS, 44mm) - Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band
  • GPS
  • Always-On Retina display
  • 30% larger screen
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Advantages

  • 36GB of storage
  • Stylish design in solid titanium
  • Top-notch health and fitness features

Disadvantages

  • Always on is too bright at night for some (plus it reduces the battery significantly)
  • Not much change from Series 4 (even 3)
  • Still no compatibility for Android users (see others that are )

Summary

So should upgrade your Series 3 or 4? Yes.

With the Apple Watch Series 5 you’ll benefit from a slick new design that sits more comfortably on the wrist, in new materials (if you can afford them), a bigger display with the new always-on feature and improved health and fitness tech monitoring. 

The Series 3 or 4 are still worth buying though, especially as the 3 still has the best battery life. But if you’re upgrading from an earlier version, you’ll fall instantly in love.

Finally, should you get the new Series 6? Yes… That is if you’re will to pay more and get the more in-depth health motoring and that extra bit of features. See our full review of the new Apple Watch 6 here.

Reduced Price
New Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS + Cellular, 40mm) - Blue Aluminum Case with Deep Navy Sport Band
New Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS + Cellular, 40mm) - Blue Aluminum Case with Deep Navy Sport Band
  • GPS + Cellular model lets you call, text, and get directions without your phone
  • Measure your blood oxygen with an all-new sensor and app
  • Check your heart rhythm with the ECG app
Check Amazon Price

If you’re not sure which Apple watch is best for you then we have created an easy comparison of all Apple offerings from the first generation to the Series 6 and SE. Check it out here.

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Why Choose an Apple Watch

Apple Watch

The invention of the smartphone has driven the evolution of the smartwatch – and Apple leads the way with its Apple Watch range, designed for convenience and style.

Apple’s smartwatches offer integration with iOS technology and excellent fitness tracking and wellbeing focused features.

The History of the Apple Watch

Since its launch in 2015 the Apple Watch has seen multiple iterations. The Apple Watch Series 1 and Series 2 were made available in 2016. The Apple Watch Series 3 arrived a year later. The Series 4 a year after that and in September 2019 the Apple 5 hit the market. Apple Watch Series 6 hit the market in September 2020.

What Watch to Choose

Apple no longer sells the original Apple Watch or the Series 1, 2 and Series 4, though you can find good secondhand buys. Alongside the new Series 6, Series 5 and Series 3, Apple is also currently selling the Apple Watch Nike+ edition and Apple Watch Hermes. The technical specification of these branded Apple Watches mimics that of the Apple Watch Series 4. The recently released Apple Watch Edition is described by Apple as having “all the innovations of Series 5 and the craftsmanship of traditional watchmaking”.

Apple Watches are available either as GPS or GPS +Cellular versions; the main difference being that the Cellular type allows the user to operate the Apple Watch without the iPhone being anywhere near.

If you’re considering purchasing an Apple Watch but not sure which model will suit your requirements, read on as we compare and discuss Series 2, Series 3, Series 4 and Series 5.

New Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS + Cellular, 40mm) - Graphite Stainless Steel Case with Black Sport Band
New Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS + Cellular, 40mm) - Graphite Stainless Steel Case with Black Sport Band
  • GPS + Cellular model lets you call, text, and get directions without your phone
  • Measure your blood oxygen with an all-new sensor and app
  • Check your heart rhythm with the ECG app
Check Amazon Price

Design

Until Apple Watch 4, the look of each device was similar. Apple Watch has a larger screen – between 40mm and 44mm – and also includes haptic feedback on the digital crown. Series 5 is available in either 38mm or 42mm versions.

Apple watches from Series 2 and up are all waterproof with a 5ATM rating. This means that they are suitable to wear in water depths of up to 50 metres for 10 minutes – so you can shower and swim with confidence. On the Series 3, Apple says that although water is able to penetrate the speaker, sound vibrations help to expel the moisture back out.

Each generation of Apple Watch has allowed for plenty of personalisation with colour and material options. More recent versions such as the Series 5 have a bigger library of options with case materials in aluminium, titanium, stainless steel and gold.  Series 3 GPS+ Cellular option was available in ceramic, but this particular casing was discontinued with the introduction of Series 4. 

For added individuality, the wearer can swap the device straps to suit specific occasions. The Nike+ edition’s breathable strap sets it apart from the family. Furthermore, the Hermes in Series 4 has a great selection of fashionable straps.

Display

Series 5 and 6 are the only Apple Watch to have the always-on display feature. Undoubtedly one of its stand-out characteristics. The always-on function allows the wearer to quickly and efficiently do the simplest of tasks such as checking the time. The watch face will highlight key information such as date, time and weather and are refreshed even when the wearer’s wrist is down. To assist with preserving battery life, the display can be dimmed by covering the watch face, or it will initiate the dim mode automatically when the wrist is down.

Performance

The Apple Watch has never been particularly power hungry, but with each generation performance has improved. Series 2 houses the S2 integrated computer/System on Chip (SoC). Whilst Series 3 hosts S3 and saw the introduction of the dual-core.  Series 4 and Series 5 both operate on a 64-dual core processor. This affords activity that is up to 2x faster than the S3 processor.  

Despite no notable difference in the performance between Apple’s latest models, they retain their own unique SoC, S4 and S5 respectively.  Like the speed, each generation of Apple Watch has had more RAM giving the user more multi-tasking for their money; Series 2 at 512MB of RAM, Apple Watch 3 with 768MB and levelling off at 1GB RAM for series 4 and 5.

Apple has doubled the storage capacity with each new generation of Apple Watch; Series 5 boasts 32GB.  

Health and Wellbeing

With all Apple Watches, there is no need for a separate fitness tracker. Each generation of the Apple Watch has an inbuilt heart rate monitor, an accelerometer, a gyroscope and an ambient light sensor. However, it wasn’t until Series 3 that the device gained an altimeter and a magnetometer (enabling compass functionality) in Series 5.

Fitness enthusiasts can mould the Apple Watch into their very own activity co-ordinator using a variety of health and exercise apps. Each series offering increasingly advanced options with added capability, for example, Series 3 has ‘Activity Rings’ which allows you to monitor your daily movements whilst the improved Workout App in Series 4 includes yoga and hiking and is able to identify what exercise is being undertaken automatically.

New and impressive for Series 5 is upgraded optical and electronic heart sensors allowing more accurate heart monitoring including ECGs which is being supported by the American Heart Association.

Series 4 and 5 offer the wearer added protection against falls. The device can detect a fall and will contact the emergency services if it does not detect any movement within a minute.

GPS is available on Series 2, Series 3, Series 4, Series 5 and Series 6 models, offering greater flexibility when out and about.

Blue Apple watch with apps open

Features

There is no notable difference in battery life between the range of Apple Watches. Each offering in the region of 18-24hrs of battery use.

Bluetooth and Wi-fi are standard installations on each Apple Watch, but there is the added advantage of the cellular option from Series 3 upwards.

With each generation of the Apple Watch, the user is provided with additional apps and creative Watch faces.

Software / Operating System

Apple Watch

Like Apple’s smartphones, the brand’s smartwatches have a unique operating system labelled watchOS. WatchOS allows touch functionality and a whole directory of smart and fun features. It is watchOS that enables the device to be used for calling, texting, receive social media notifications and make purchases via Apple Pay. Like the iPhone Siri is also available on the range of Apple Watches and with Series 4 and Series the assistant works on a ‘raise to speak’ saving you having to wake it up with with a ‘Hey Siri’.

The current operating system is watchOS 7, and this will work on all version of the Apple Watch discussed here. Useful features in watchOS 7 include noise level notifications and you can now download apps directly, rather than having to use your iPhone.

Unlike its competitors, the Apple Watch range will only work with the iPhone; iPhone 5 running iOS 10 or later for Apple Watch Series 2 and for Series 3 either an iPhone on iOS11 or an iPhone 6.

Price comparison

The price you pay is dependent on the model, the casing, strap and the screen size. Apple Watches range in price from just under $200 for a Series 3 with an aluminium case and a sports band, all the way up to $1,500 for the special Hermes version of the Series 5. The new Apple Watch 6 costs around $500.

Which will it be?

Whichever Apple Watch you opt for it is clear they certainly offer a suite of standard features to suit a variety of needs, and you can keep up to date with the latest releases of the operating system, keeping your device functional.

Apple Watch Series 5 (GPS, 44mm) - Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band
Apple Watch Series 5 (GPS, 44mm) - Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band
  • GPS
  • Always-On Retina display
  • 30% larger screen
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If you’re not sure which Apple watch is best for you then we have created an easy comparison of all Apple offerings from the first generation to the Series 6 and SE. Check it out here.

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