watchOS 27 brings sleep apnea detection, new watch faces, and workout enhancements
Apple announced watchOS 27 at WWDC, introducing sleep apnea detection, new watch faces, and enhanced workout metrics. The update will be available for Apple Watch Series 6 and later this fall.
Apple unveiled watchOS 27 during its Worldwide Developers Conference keynote on Monday. The update brings several health-focused features, including sleep apnea detection, which uses the watch's accelerometer to monitor breathing patterns during sleep. Users will receive notifications if irregularities are detected, prompting them to consult a doctor.
The new operating system also introduces a redesigned Photos watch face that uses machine learning to curate the best images from the user's library. Additionally, a new Snoopy watch face features animated characters from the Peanuts franchise, with interactive elements that respond to the time of day and weather.
Workout enhancements include a new Vitals app that provides a daily health snapshot, showing metrics like heart rate, respiratory rate, and sleep duration. The Workout app gains a new Cycling mode that automatically detects when the user is riding a bike and provides metrics such as estimated power output and cycling speed.
For runners, watchOS 27 adds a new Running Form feature that measures ground contact time, stride length, and vertical oscillation. These metrics are displayed in real-time during outdoor runs and can be reviewed in the Fitness app on iPhone.
The update also includes improvements to the Smart Stack, which now offers more contextual widgets based on time, location, and activity. For example, the Smart Stack will show a medication reminder widget at the scheduled time or a wallet widget when approaching a transit station.
Apple has expanded the availability of the Double Tap gesture to more apps, including third-party apps. Developers can now integrate the gesture to trigger custom actions within their apps, such as starting a timer or advancing a playlist.
watchOS 27 will be compatible with Apple Watch Series 6 and later, including Apple Watch SE (2nd generation) and Apple Watch Ultra. The update will be available as a free download starting this fall, alongside iOS 27 and iPadOS 27.
Apple also announced that the new sleep apnea detection feature has received FDA clearance and will be available in the United States and other countries pending regulatory approval. The company emphasized that the feature is not a diagnostic tool but rather a screening aid.
2026 World Cup Official Ball Requires Pre-Match Charging for Sensors
The official ball for the 2026 World Cup, named Trionda, will need to be charged before matches to power its internal sensors. These sensors will transmit real-time data to the VAR system.
FIFA has unveiled the official match ball for the 2026 World Cup, named Trionda. The ball incorporates internal sensors that require charging prior to each match. This technology enables the ball to transmit real-time data to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system.
The Trionda ball is equipped with a motion sensor and a gyroscope, both powered by a small rechargeable battery. The battery is charged via a wireless charging pad, which the ball is placed on for a specified period before kickoff. FIFA officials confirmed that the charging process takes approximately 30 minutes.
Data from the sensors includes the ball's position on the field, speed, spin rate, and trajectory. This information is sent to the VAR control room, where officials can use it to assist in decision-making, such as offside calls or handball incidents. The system aims to improve accuracy and reduce human error.
FIFA collaborated with a German technology firm to develop the sensor module. The module is embedded in the ball's bladder and is designed to withstand the rigors of professional play. The ball's outer shell is made from a synthetic leather material, similar to previous World Cup balls.
The Trionda will be used in all 104 matches of the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. FIFA has not disclosed the exact cost of the ball, but it is expected to be priced higher than standard match balls due to the integrated technology.
Pre-match charging will be conducted by the match officials, who will ensure the ball is fully charged before the start of play. FIFA has stated that the ball's battery life is sufficient for the entire 90-minute match, plus extra time if needed. The ball will also be used in training sessions leading up to the tournament.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino commented that the Trionda represents a significant advancement in match technology. He emphasized that the ball's data integration will enhance the viewing experience for fans and provide referees with additional tools to make correct calls. The ball is set to be officially launched in early 2026.




