The latest software update for Apple Watch is now available, just a few days after Apple released iOS 11.2 earlier than expected. The biggest link between the iDevice and Watch software updates is Apple Pay Cash, which is now available for Apple's wearable in watchOS 4.2
Apple Pay Cash lets US-based users send and receive money through iMessage, with funds drawn from a linked credit or debit card. Those who receive money get it in the form of an Apple Pay Cash Card, which they can then use to pay for things through the Apple Wallet app or transfer that money to a bank account. On the Apple Watch, users can tap the new Apple Pay Cash button at the bottom of an iMessage conversation to initiate a payment to that contact.
This means users won't need to open their iPhone to make an Apple Pay Cash payment; the transaction can be made directly from the Watch. However, Apple Pay Cash on watchOS 4.2 will only work when the wearable is paired with an iPhone running iOS 11.2.
Apple pushed out the iOS 11.2 software update last weekend in response to a number of bugs that needed fixing, including a serious date bug that made iDevices crash repeatedly. Initially, Apple Pay Cash was not available for all users who downloaded the update immediately. Now, Apple Pay Cash seems to have rolled out for most iDevice users running iOS 11.2.
WatchOS 4.2 resolves a few other Apple Watch bugs as well, including a scrolling issue in the Heart rate app, an issue that forced the Watch to restart whenever a user asked Siri about the weather, and an issue that prevented simultaneous alarms and timers from being dismissed independently. The software update also adds support for HomeKit sprinklers and faucets and improved downhill snow sports tracking for third-party apps running on an Apple Watch Series 3.
To download watchOS 4.2, navigate to Watch > General > Software Update and make sure your Apple Watch is resting on its charger and has at least 50 percent battery.
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