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What’s new for runners in the Apple Watch Series 3

The latest Apple Watch was revealed on Tuesday. It will feature better battery life and a much more powerful processor. Oh, and it's basically a cellphone on its own

Apple Watch Series 3

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The latest in Apple technology was revealed on Tuesday, including details on the Apple Watch Series 3.

The Apple Watch Series 3 is the latest in the tech giant’s wrist devices following the previous Apple Watch Series 2 (the first to have GPS), Apple Watch Nike+ and Apple Watch Series 1. Details for the Apple Watch Series 3 were released today at the Apple Special Event from Steve Jobs Theatre in California.

For those who use the watch as their tracking device of choice, there are several upgrades and improvements that target runners of all abilities. Here’s what we know so far as details are released.

Features

Built-in cellular

The Apple Watch Series 3 is capable of acting as a standalone smartphone. You’ll be able to receive calls, send messages and use maps with built-in cellular data. Running in a foreign place? All you need is your watch now. Plus, if you need to get a hold of someone in case of an emergency and you don’t have your smartphone, you can reach out with the watch itself.

The Series 3 takes the same phone number as one’s smartphone, according to Gizmodo, adding that the watch is available Sept. 22 for US$329-$399, depending on cellular capability. We’ll have updates on Canadian availability and pricing soon.

Music

The Series 3 allows users to stream music from their wrist through Bluetooth headphones, such as Apple’s  wireless Airpods.

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No added bulk

The Series 3, despite requiring a cell antenna, is the same size as the Apple Watch Series 2. That’s because the entire display acts as the antenna. (The back is extended 2.5mm.) The Apple Watch is comparable in size to most standard GPS watches.

New bands

A number of bands–including one called “sport loop”–are available for the Apple Watch Series 3. That means you can swap out a more formal band for a sportier one when swapping between activities, if you so choose.

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New dual processor and W2 chip

A new processor means 70 per cent better performance, according to TechCrunch, and the W2 Chip improves Bluetooth connectivity and power efficiency.

The watch is believed to have as much as 18 hours of battery life, which will be huge for ultrarunners and Ironman triathletes looking to get maximum use out of the device in a day.

Swim-proof

Cross-training in the pool? You’re good to go with the Series 3. (The Apple Watch Series 2 was also swim-proof.)

Heart rate tracking

The built-in heart rate app has been improved, according to TechCrunch, including new measurements and notifications when your heart rate jumps. The watch will also notify you if any irregular heartbeats develop, based on your past data.

We’ll be getting one on our testers’ wrists very soon with and will report back with an in-depth review. 

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