Wesley Hilliard
Apple's fifth developer beta for watchOS 8 is now available for testing just a day after the company released beta versions of iOS 15, iPadOS 15 and tvOS 15.
The newest build can be downloaded via the Apple Developer Center for those enrolled into the test program, or via an over-the-air update on devices running the beta software. Public betas typically arrive within a few days of the developer versions, via the Apple Beta Software Program website.
On watchOS 8, users can expect the addition of Tai Chi and Pilates workouts, respiratory rates in the Sleep app, new Photos layouts and memories, and Digital Crown cursor control and GIF search for Messages.
The fifth beta arrives after the fourth from July 27, the third from July 14, the second on June 24, and the first on June 7. Apple is expected to release watchOS 8 in the fall.
AppleInsider, and Apple itself, strongly advise users don't install the betas on primary devices, as there is the small possibility of issues like data loss. Testers should install betas onto secondary or non-essential devices, and to ensure there are sufficient backups of important data before updating.
Find any changes in the new betas? Reach out to us on Twitter at @AppleInsider or @Andrew_OSU, or send Andrew an email at andrew@AppleInsider.com.
Andrew Orr
Amber Neely
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
AppleInsider Staff
4 Comments
I hope this fixes the issue where Siri on the Apple Watch can't find any HomeKit devices (the Home app finds them just fine).
I also have that issue.
My bug when I went to Watch 5 to Watch 6 is when I put it on a charger. It does not show the charging desk clock mode, but continues to show the watch face (power is circle in corner is green though) and no ding sound like it is charging. I have to pull it off and on and eventually that desk clock mode kicks in (and dings). No updates have fix that.
I updated last night and can confirm that Siri/HomeKit integration is fixed.