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I've been testing Apple Watches since the Series 2 launched in 2016. Each iteration has impressed me with added features that have made the product even more user-friendly and rightfully popular among consumers. But the latest Series 8 brings the most substantial upgrades yet simply because of their life-saving impact.
![Apple Watch Series 8 [GPS 41mm]](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1663688780-apple-watch-series-8-1663688733.jpg?crop=0.6666666666666666xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:* "Apple Watch Series 8 [GPS 41mm]")
The Apple Watch Series 8 debuted during the tech giant's "Far Out" keynote event alongside the iPhone 14 family and a budget-friendly Apple Watch SE. It is the most impressive yet despite its familiar design. The latest iteration packs invisible but far-reaching upgrades like crash detection while retaining the same $399 starting price. Here's a breakdown of the amazing new features of the Apple Watch Series 7 sequel.
CRASH DETECTION
The life-saving crash detection feature alone is enough to invest in the Apple Watch Series 8. The timepiece's onboard sensors can detect a car crash and, after checking on you, alert authorities and contacts of your choosing if there is no response.
Crash detection is a free, must-have feature during road trips and nighttime drives, especially in countryside areas with less traffic and a lower likelihood of encountering other motorists. Timing is essential in moments like these, and the Apple Watch Series 8 can save your life, regardless of whether you are a driver or a passenger.
The detection process utilizes a sophisticated algorithm that factors in sensor data from impact forces, the loud and sudden noises an accident generates, and the deployment of airbags, to name a few bits. Crash detection can activate in any car (e.g., SUV, truck, van, etc.) during any accident — from a side impact to a rollover.
I felt much better going on a weekend road trip to Vermont with an iPhone 14 Pro (another Apple product with crash detection) in my pocket and the Series 8 on my wrist. For comparison, some car manufacturers will charge you extra for similar services, only if available.
NEXT-LEVEL HEALTH AND WELLNESS TRACKING
A best-in-class array of health- and wellness-monitoring tech has traditionally been an Apple Watch calling card, and the Series 8 is no exception. In particular, its ECG-capable electrical heart rate sensor with the ability to notify you upon detecting an irregular rhythm is a life-saving feature worth pressing the "buy" button for.
The Series 8 is the first Apple Watch to pack a temperature monitor, allowing it to bring a whole new perspective to your overall wellness. While sleeping, a pair of sensors will keep tabs on your body temperature every five seconds. The fluctuations it detects can indicate body changes caused by many factors — from heavy workouts to illness.
Adding a temperature sensor also brings the women's health tracking capabilities of the Apple Watch Series 8 to a higher level, especially when it comes to family planning. The new sensor complements the blood oxygen tracker that became an Apple Watch standard from Series 6 onwards.
As always, all the health and fitness data gathered by your Apple Watch is easy to access and securely kept in the Health app of your iPhone. Not having to worry about the privacy of such personal information is another reason to switch.
IMPROVED COMPASS WITH BACKTRACK
Thanks to watchOS 9, the Series 8 added a Backtrack feature to the compass app. The anxiety-reducing functionality allows you to retrace your route in case you get lost during a hike or another outdoorsy adventure. If you're visiting a forest or a national park, you can activate Backtrack before heading for the trails.
Backtrack will log your hikes using the GPS onboard the Apple Watch Series 8. Better yet, in moments when you need it the most (think: off-the-grid locations away from your usual one and no familiar Wi-Fi networks), the Apple Watch will automatically activate the feature for you, ensuring you won't get stranded in an unfamiliar place.
Backtrack will become available on Apple Watch models from Series 6 onwards. So if you own one that launched before 2020, you should definitely consider upgrading to the Series 8.
WRAP-UP
The incredible enhanced health- and location-tracking features, in tandem with crash detection, make the life-saving Apple Watch Series 8 timepiece a must-upgrade. Despite being completely invisible, crash detection makes the most convincing case for upgrading to the latest Apple Watch Series 8 from a Series 7, especially if you drive on a daily basis. Fall detection — a longtime Apple Watch staple — is also available on Series 8.
If you got your hands on an iPhone 14, you probably already know it has built-in crash detection. Still, remember that pairing it with the latest Apple Watch will allow their sensors to work in tandem in the event of an accident. Plus, a Series 8 with cellular connectivity will keep you safe while taking a break from your iPhone.
Stefan is the senior technology editor for BestProducts.com, where he’s been covering the tech industry and testing the latest gadgets since 2015. He has more than a decade of experience covering consumer tech products, especially smartphones, tablets, laptops, and audio gear. He was previously the US editor for GSMArena.com; his work can also be found on Popular Mechanics and other Hearst publications.In the rare moments when he’s not playing with a new gadget, Stefan likes to watch live Premier League games or hang out with his cat and rabbit. He’s also an espresso snob.
