This article may contain affiliate links. Learn more on our Partner Program page.
The Apple Watch Series 10 has been officially introduced and the first test reports show that there are no groundbreaking new functions, but a number of useful, smaller improvements. The design, the display and the quick-charge function in particular stand out. If you are looking for a portable and elegant smartwatch, you will find what you are looking for here - but there are also points of criticism, especially with regard to the health functions.
The Apple Watch has changed the lives of millions of people in recent years. Not only does it help you stay fit, it also offers valuable health information and safety features that have already saved countless lives. With the launch of the Apple Watch Series 10, Apple is going a step further. The new watch combines an elegant, slim design with a variety of new features that can make your daily life easier and healthier. Let's discover together what the first reviews have to say.
Design and display: Big upgrade compared to the Series 9
The most noticeable update to the Apple Watch Series 10 is its new design. The watch is slimmer, lighter and comes with an even larger display. Zac Hall from 9to5Mac describes it is an "Ultra Lite" version of the Apple Watch because it has the large display of the Ultra series but does without some of the robust features. The display of the 46 mm model is particularly impressive, being even larger than that of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 at 49 mm. The rounded edges and slim case also make the Series 10 more comfortable to wear. Adrienne So from Wired true and emphasizes how much the larger display makes a difference, especially considering the compact design. Even if the changes seem small at first glance, they contribute a lot to user comfort.
Faster charging function: Ideal for everyday use
A big plus point of the Apple Watch Series 10 is the fast charging function. With just eight minutes of charging time, you can get enough battery life for sleep tracking, which is especially useful for heavy users who want to wear the watch all day. Wired reports that it is possible to fully charge the watch during your daily routine - such as brushing your teeth or taking a shower - which takes about 20 minutes. 9to5Mac also highlights how helpful this function is in everyday life, as you can use the watch practically nonstop without having to put up with long charging times.
Health functions: No blood oxygen sensor
This is where the biggest criticism of the Apple Watch Series 10 comes in. The watch still offers many of the well-known health features, such as heart rate monitoring and sleep analysis, but the blood oxygen sensor is missing, which may disappoint some users. Cherlynn Low from Engadget and Adrienne So from Wired criticize both that Apple has removed this feature, which was present in the Series 9 and Ultra 2, from the Series 10. This is a shame, especially because most fitness trackers now have this feature. Nevertheless, the Series 10 has some useful new features such as sleep apnea detection. For casual users or those who do not rely on extreme sports features, the Series 10 still offers enough features to keep an eye on your health in everyday life.
Price-performance ratio: Titanium version as an option
With a starting price of 799 euros for the titanium model, the Apple Watch Series 10 offers a cheaper alternative to the Ultra, which costs 100 euros more. Victoria Song from The Verge calls the Series 10 a "more wearable Ultra", which makes it particularly attractive to fashion-conscious users who value the design and the large display more than extreme sports functions. GQ also lifts The Series 10 is the lightest Apple Watch since the Series 3 and has a particularly high-quality look thanks to its polished titanium finish. So if you're looking for a stylish yet functional smartwatch, the Series 10 offers good value for money.
Apple Watch Series 10 Conclusion: Solid development with a focus on design
The Apple Watch Series 10 doesn't bring anything revolutionary, but it's a solid upgrade, especially if you appreciate the slimmer design and larger display. The fast charging feature is particularly handy, and those looking for an attractive and lightweight model will be happy with the Series 10. However, fitness enthusiasts may be disappointed as it lacks the blood oxygen sensor - a feature that is now standard on many competitors. However, if you're looking for a stylish and everyday smartwatch, the Series 10 could be just the right choice for you.
Note on the missing blood oxygen sensor
The dispute between Apple and Masimo dates back to 2020, when Masimo accused Apple of patent infringement and violation of trade secrets. The focus was particularly on the blood oxygen sensor technology that has been integrated since the Apple Watch Series 6. The ITC (US International Trade Commission) ruled in October 2023 that Apple infringed two Masimo patents relating to the Apple Watch's pulse oximeter function. This decision led to a temporary ban on the sale of these models in the US from December 25th. However, Apple has responded and announced that it will take precautionary measures to comply with the ruling. The company emphasizes that this ban only affects the affected models, while the cheaper Apple Watch SE, which does not have a blood oxygen sensor, will continue to be available. Read more here! (Image: Apple)
