Today, alongside the new updates for tvOS 12, iOS 12 and the minor update for the HomePod Apple has also released watchOS 5 for the Apple Watch. Like the other Apple software released today, it was first announced earlier this year at WWDC in June.

What’s new?

If you have opted to stick with your current Apple Watch this year and not plump for the newly released Apple Watch Series 4, you’ll be glad to know that a new update for your watch has been released today. watchOS 5 includes brand new features for workouts, the Workout app can now automatically detect if you are walking or running and then automatically suggest that you start a workout, then it can also remind you to end it too once you are done.

The Workout app also includes new competitions, so you can challenge friends to maintain their streak or burn a certain amount of calories in a week. New workouts have also been added: Yoga and Hiking. The Hiking workout will take into consideration the height you have climbed, as long as you have the Apple Watch Series 3 or Series 4 as they both have built in altimeters.

The Podcast app now finally comes to the Apple Watch, there are times that you want to go out without your phone and listen to a podcast now and again.

How do I update?

The update for Apple Watch is available now via the Watch app on iPhone, but you will need to update your phone to iOS 12 first before watchOS 5 shows up. This can be found under Watch app > General > Software Update

The update is also limited to the newer models of Apple Watch, so the Series 0 as we like to call it or the original Apple Watch from 2015 will not be compatible now, due to hardware constraints. Series 1, Series 2, Series 3 and Series 4 all can run watchOS 5.