Apple released its latest Apple Watch operating system watchOS 10 at its Worldwide Developers Conference 2023, bringing many new features and interface improvements to users. But in addition to what Apple mentioned, there are some other new features hidden throughout the system. One interesting change is that users can now add their bank cards to Apple Pay directly on their Apple Watch without the need for an iPhone.
Previously, users had to add a new card to Apple Pay through the Watch app on their iPhone, but in watchOS 10, the Wallet app on Apple Watch adds an “Add Card” button. Users can simply tap this button to complete the entire setup process for Apple Pay on the Apple Watch. Users can enter their credit card number, expiration date and security code directly on the watch. If the user’s bank provides text or phone verification instead of using the bank’s app, the iPhone is not required to complete the setup.
This is a small but important update, Apple has been gradually reducing the Apple Watch’s reliance on the iPhone over the past few years. For example, users can access watchOS settings directly on the watch, and models with cellular capabilities can also make phone calls and listen to songs online without a phone nearby. Of course, the Apple Watch still needs to be paired with an iPhone to work, but Apple seems to want users to be able to do more without taking out their phones.
In addition to a refreshed interface, watchOS 10 brings new features, including widgets that can be accessed from any dial, new options for monitoring cycling, mental health tracking, group FaceTime audio, NameDrop and more. Apple says watchOS 10 will be pushed out to all users this fall, with a public beta expected to launch in July.
