The Apple Watch Series 8 has been in the market for over six months, and it’s time to revisit its performance and features. Launched last year as an upgrade to the Series 7, the Series 8 comes with a new S8 chip, crash detection, and a temperature sensor. The design remains similar to its predecessor, featuring a 41mm aluminum case and a 1.69-inch screen with a 430×352-pixel resolution. The watch also has a speaker and microphone, along with a digital crown and a side button that have retained their tactile feedback over time. The back panel supports magnetic charging and houses sensors for heart rate and SpO2. One of the standout features is its temperature sensor, which is a new addition. The watch is also IP6X dust resistant and water-resistant up to 50 meters.
The Series 8’s display is an always-on Retina LTPO OLED panel with up to 1000 nits peak brightness. It offers vibrant visuals and good touch response, making it easy to interact with the device. The watch runs on WatchOS and is compatible with iPhone 8 or later models running iOS 16. However, the always-on display (AOD) can’t be scheduled to turn on and off automatically, which could be a downside for some users. The watch comes with a variety of straps, but some users have reported skin irritation due to the material. Despite this, the Series 8 has proven to be a robust and feature-rich device that has held up well over extended use.
So, should you wait for the Series 9 or go for the discounted Series 8? The Series 8 has proven its worth in the long run, offering a robust set of features and reliable performance. If you’re not keen on having the latest design, the Series 8 offers a compelling package, especially when discounts come into play. With its durable build, advanced features, and compatibility with a wide range of accessories, the Apple Watch Series 8 stands as a strong contender in the smartwatch market.
