Highlights

• Apple introduces (PRODUCT)RED Watch Series 9, supporting HIV/AIDS initiatives.
• Available at Rs 41,900 in 41mm and 45mm sizes with red aluminum case and band.
• New red watch faces, including Solar Analog, for enhanced customization.
• Standard Watch Series 9 features retained, including 2000 nits brightness and S9 chipset.

The Apple Watch Series 9 is getting a new (PRODUCT)RED colour variant in India.

This isn’t anything new for the company, it has always had this particular variant available for a variety of its products.

It is part of Apple’s ongoing commitment since 2006 to support the fight against HIV/AIDS, and the company contributes a portion of the proceeds from (PRODUCT)RED purchases to the Global Fund.

Apple Watch Series 9 (PRODUCT)RED: What’s New

There are a few design changes to take note of with this new Watch Series 9.

It comes in a red aluminum case paired with a matching red Sport Band, maintaining the same price point as its regular counterparts at Rs 41,900.

As per usual it has both 41mm and 45mm sizes and HDFC Bank credit card users can enjoy an additional Rs 2,500 instant discount on purchases made through Apple’s website, with no-cost EMI options also available.

But it’s just not the Watch Series 9 Design and Strap that is different.

Apple is also introducing new red watch faces, including Solar Analog enhancing the user experience with customized aesthetics.

New Watch Faces for World AIDS Day

In watchOS 10, Apple introduced red options for various watch faces, including Palette, Solar Analog, Metropolitan, World Time, Numerals Mono, Gradient, Stripes, and Typograph, in honour of World AIDS Day.

The (PRODUCT)RED collection by Apple is not limited to the new Watch Series 9 but extends to other products, including the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 13, iPhone SE, and various accessories.

World AIDS Day: Apple’s Extended Commitment

Apple is known for a bit of philanthropy and in that spirit the company has announced a special initiative: for every purchase made using Apple Pay on apple.com, the Apple Store app, or at Apple Store locations until December 8, Apple will donate $1 to the cause.

Now that may not seem that much but considering the number of transactions being handled by Apple, that just might amount to millions of dollars in a few days.

Just for some historical context, over the past 17 years, Apple’s customers have contributed over a quarter of a billion dollars through (PRODUCT)RED purchases.

These funds have significantly impacted HIV-positive individuals, providing essential antiretroviral treatment and HIV testing.

Apple Watch Series 9 (PRODUCT)RED: Have the Specs Changed?

Coming back now to the Watch Series 9, has anything else changed with the new (PRODUCT) RED variant?

Well the answer is no.

Apart from the colour change, the wearable is the same watch that the company revealed back in October.

It packs an impressive 2000 nits of peak brightness, it is powered by the S9 chipset, based on the A15 Bionic, and runs on watchOS 10 right out of the box.

While we haven’t personally reviewed the Series 9, other users have said that you can expect a battery life of around 18 hours, making it a reliable companion throughout the day.

Additionally, the new Watch Series 9 boasts a new heart rate sensor, supports double-tap gestures, and offers water resistance up to 50 meters.

FAQs

How does the (PRODUCT)RED edition of the Apple Watch Series 9 contribute to charity?

The (PRODUCT)RED edition of the Apple Watch Series 9 is part of a unique initiative where Apple donates a portion of the proceeds from the sale of these devices to the Global Fund.

This fund is dedicated to fighting HIV/AIDS, providing critical support in terms of healthcare and medication.

What distinguishes the (PRODUCT)RED Apple Watch Series 9 from regular models?

The most striking feature of the (PRODUCT)RED Apple Watch Series 9 is its eye-catching red aluminum case and sport band.

This edition also includes exclusive red-themed watch faces, adding to its distinctiveness.

In terms of hardware and software, it matches the specifications of the standard models.

When was the Apple Watch Series 9 launched?

The Apple Watch Series 9 was launched on September 12, alongside the introduction of the iPhone 15 series smartphones in both global and Indian markets.

What other products were launched alongside the Apple Watch Series 9?

Along with the Apple Watch Series 9, Apple also debuted the Apple Watch Ultra 2, Apple Watch SE 2, and Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen Type-C TWS during the same event.

Additionally, Apple recently introduced updated models of the Apple MacBook Pro and Apple iMac featuring M3 chipsets.

What is the “double-tap” feature in the Apple Watch Series 9?

The double-tap feature allows users to tap their index finger and thumb together to perform specific actions, like answering a phone call.

This interactive feature will be available through a software update in October.

How does the new S9 SiP in Watch Series 9 improve its performance?

The S9 SiP (System in Package) in the Watch Series 9 houses a CPU with 5.6 billion transistors, ensuring smooth multitasking.

Coupled with a GPU that’s 30% faster, it promises an enhanced user experience, including quicker on-device Siri responses.

What powers the Apple Watch Series 9?

The Series 9 is driven by the latest S9 SiP chipset, boasting a 30 percent performance hike, a 4-core neural engine, and a whopping 5.6 billion transistors.

This results in faster Siri interactions and a more efficient 18-hour battery life.

How does the double-tap feature enhance user experience?

The innovative double-tap gesture allows users to operate the watch without direct screen touch.

By simply tapping the index finger and thumb together, one can access various functionalities, from answering calls to capturing photos with the Camera remote.

What’s new with the Series 9’s display?

Apple ups its display game with the Series 9, offering brightness levels of up to 2000 nits, a notable jump from the 1000 nits in its predecessor.

This ensures optimum visibility in all environments, from bright sunlight to dimly lit rooms.

How has Siri improved in the Apple Watch Series 9?

The new neural engine significantly enhances Siri’s capabilities, allowing for on-device processing, quicker responses, and a 25% increase in dictation accuracy.

Users can now even inquire about health data, a feature set to expand later this year.

How can I get an Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2 through John Hancock’s program?

You can get these Apple Watch models by joining John Hancock’s Vitality Plus life insurance program.

Pay an initial $25, and then your exercise activities can reduce monthly payments over a 24-month period.

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