The 21st century has seen the world leap forth in terms of technological advancements. This digital age has driven a tech revolution unlike any other era before. However, that also means that this shift in tech has changed the entire ecosystem from the ground up. From daily consumable products to home appliances, everything has gone smart. Something as simple as an analog machine has gone smart, too, replacing the mechanical components with IT circuits and whatnot. That is exactly what transpired here with watches, as people no longer wear analog watches and instead opt for their smarter counterparts. And that’s not an unfactual saying, as there are concrete factual numbers to prove the said case.
According to Statista’s report, “Apple alone sold well over 54 million Apple Watches in 2022. This was followed by more than 38 million smartwatch units sold in 2023, a slight decline in sales.”
Those numbers make a strong case for smartwatches like the Apple Watch and Garmin to replace analog wearables. However, with great power comes great responsibility. And if smartwatches, specifically the Apple Watch, are to drive off old school watches from the territory, then they must make up for the lost aesthetics that analog watches possessed. Luckily, there are many great wearable apps that offer great compensation for forgoing classic watches. Therefore, let’s take a look at the top 25 apps for Apple Watch in this blog. These apps are ranked among the best Apple Watch apps that you need to download on your watch today. So, without any further ado, let’s get right into it.
Top Apple Watch Apps That You Must Use
The Apple ecosystem is all about security, performance, and aesthetics while maintaining exclusivity. Therefore, the devices that are part of this ecosystem have very specific and strict guidelines as to which iOS apps make the cut and which don’t. The same goes for the WatchOS, as Apple Watch’s native apps need to be highly responsive and visually appealing. Luckily, there are more than enough fully featured apps that make the most of the tiny screen of the Apple Watch while having a user-friendly interface. There are thousands of apps available on the wearable app store. Moreover, some of them are fitness apps like MyFitnessPal and workout apps like Workoutdoors. Not only that, but there is an app also for tracking daily step count and heart rate data. You can also use Genie, which is an AI app similar to ChatGPT but for Apple Watch.
Furthermore, there is a Todoist app to manage daily tasks, along with the weather app and apps for public transport. Moreover, you can use apps to listen to podcasts and convert metric units. Also, you can use an offline maps app via the Apple Watch Series 9 to give you turn-by-turn directions. The MyQ smartwatch app allows you to control your smart home and smart garage. So, you get the idea that there are a bunch of smartwatch apps for different purposes. That is why we have listed 25 of the best Apple Watch apps from those categories that you need to install on your watch when you first set up the Apple Watch Ultra. Therefore, these 25 Best Apple Watch apps are as follows:
Best Apple Watch Apps for Navigation
1. Google Maps
Google Maps is also one of the best Apple Watch apps, as it makes it pretty easy to go just about anywhere in the world. Now, you can do this by using Google Maps directly from your Apple Watch. You get turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic, and transit information right on your wrist. The app has a better experience and a clean interface, which will help you navigate easily and see restaurants, shops, and attractions near your current location. Furthermore, you can get voice commands and haptic feedback on your notifications, so you will never miss a turn or arrive late at your destination ever again.
2. Citymapper
Citymapper is yet another ultimate transit app for cities on Apple Watch Face. Furthermore, this smart watch app gives multiple transportation options, such as public transit, cycling, or walking, to help you find the best route. Also, you will get real-time updates on bus and train arrivals, disruptions, and even calorie burn estimates for your journey every time you check the app. Citymapper’s clear, concise directions and vibration alerts make city travel a breeze, ensuring you are always on the most efficient way to your destination.
Health & Fitness Apps
3. Nike Run Club
The Nike Run Club app designed for Apple Watch will transform your running experience. Furthermore, you can track your runs and set goals. You can also use the Apple Watch app to get audio-guided workouts from professional coaches. The app monitors your pace with distance and heart rate, giving real-time feedback to enhance your performance. Furthermore, you can open the app to stay competitive by making you compete with friends, earn achievements by setting top scores in leaderboards, and remain motivated with individual training plans. You can see data on your iPhone app as the Nike Run Club app will be synced across the iCloud mobile app and Apple Watch app. With Nike Run Club, your watch transforms into the ultimate running companion.
4. Water Reminder
This is hands down one of the best Apple Watch apps. Water Reminder allows you to stay hydrated throughout the day with the smart watch using additional features. Moreover, you can customize your hydration goals by body weight and activities. Also, you can get soft reminders to drink water at periodic intervals and log it in easily when you take a sip by merely tapping. These apps will help you track your progress, providing insight into your hydration habits for peak health and wellness.
5. Headspace
You can bring mindfulness to your wrist with the help of Headspace on your Apple Watch. This ever-popular meditation app is one of the best Apple Watch apps, as it offers quick guided sessions that are perfect for on-the-go relaxation. Moreover, you can pick from themes such as stress relief, focusing, or sleep and then follow along with easy, very clear voice guidance. You can also track your meditation streaks and get mindful reminders throughout the day to keep you calm and focused.
6. I Am
I Am allows you to boost your self-esteem and swallow a dose of positivity each time you check your watch. That is because every time you lift your wrist, you get tailor-made affirmations and motivational quotes that appear on your watch throughout the day. Furthermore, you can set reminders to help you with positive self-talk and track your mood over time. I Am has a sleek, clean interface and customizable settings, which will help you build confidence and keep a positive mindset with one affirmation at a time.
7. Fitbod
Fitbod is one of the best Apple Watch apps on Apple Watch to help you take your exercise to new heights. This smart fitness trainer app tailors your exercise programs based on your goals and equipment at your disposal, alongside a basic comprehension of your fitness level. You can track your sets, reps, and rest times right from the wrist and get guidance in real time on proper form. Fitbod modifies your workouts as you progress, so you stay on course with the most efficient way to reach your fitness goals, which is by way of Apple Watch usage.
8. Strava
Strava allows you to connect with your inner athlete using Apple Watch. This multi-purpose fitness app lets you track a large diversity of activities, from running and cycling to swimming and hiking. Furthermore, you can use Strava to monitor your performance metrics, set personal records, and compete against friends on local segments. Strava’s Apple Watch integration provides real-time stats and GPS tracking, which makes it the perfect tool for any fitness junkie or enthusiast when it comes to outdoor activities. This free app serves as a great alternative to HealthFit, which now costs $7.99 from the previous 2.99 price.
Best Utility Apps Available in 2024
9. Morpho Converter
Morpho Converter is one of the best Apple Watch apps as it converts units easily on your Apple Watch. Moreover, this application performs a wide array of measurements, from length and weight to temperature and currency. Also, the user-oriented interface allows fast conversions by a few taps or by using the digital crown. Whether you are cooking, traveling, or working on a project, Morpho Converter ensures you always have accurate conversions at your fingertips.
10. Countdowns
The Countdowns app on your Apple Watch allows you to stay excited and organized. Moreover, you can create and monitor multiple events, from birthdays and holidays to job-related deadlines and holidays. Also, the clean, great-looking interface of the app displays the remaining days, hours, and minutes on top of the screen. Moreover, you can customize your inbox notifications to receive that extra special feeling or stay on top of important dates. Countdowns will turn your watch into a personal event lookout station.
11. Elk Currency Converter
You can use Elk Currency Converter to get currency exchange rates. This app can help you make international travel and online shopping that much easier. Moreover, this sleek app offers live exchange rates for more than 150 currencies. It has a unique interface enabling you to do quick mental math conversions using the digital crown of your watch. Furthermore, you can set your favorite currency pairs and get offline rates when traveling. The simplicity and efficiency of Elk will make it an essential tool for travelers and international business professionals.
12. iTranslate Converse
iTranslate Converse allows you to break language barriers using your Apple Watch. This efficient translation app is among the best Apple Watch apps as it enables real-time, two-way conversations in over 40 languages. You can just speak anything on your watch, and it will translate the phrase immediately into your preferred language. Moreover, it has an offline mode that will ensure you can communicate even when there isn’t an Internet connection. With iTranslate Converse, your Apple Watch works like your personal interpreter.
13. Carrot Weather
You can get accurate weather forecasts with a touch of humor using Carrot Weather on your Apple Watch. This app mixes precise meteorological data with snarky commentary to truly make the act of checking the weather enjoyable. Moreover, its customized complications provide at-a-glance information, and severe weather alerts keep you safe. With features like a time machine and augmented reality, Carrot Weather lets you get involved in the weather right from your wrist.
14. Parrity
Browsing the internet or visiting a website on your Apple Watch is next to impossible. However, it is no longer impossible as Parrity allows you to browse the web using your Apple Watch. This free version of the Web Browser app allows users to stream web content from their paired iPhone. Users will, however, have to enable JavaScript on their phone’s browser. Otherwise, a pop-up will appear on the website saying, “Javascript is disabled; please enable javascript on your browser before proceeding to the website.” This will prevent you from accessing the website, so enabling Javascript beforehand is a must.
15. Todoist
Todoist is a to-do list app that allows you to boost your productivity and get the most work done using Apple Watch. This exceptional task management app lets you create, organize, and complete tasks right from your wrist. Moreover, you can set due dates, priorities, and labels for easy sorting. Furthermore, you can use voice commands with Siri to add new tasks on the go. Todoist gives you timely reminders for upcoming deadlines. You can sync Todoist with your other devices flawlessly so that your to-do lists are updated on every device at all times.
16. Grocery
You can now streamline your shopping trips with the Grocery app on your Apple Watch. This is one of the best Apple Watch apps, and it allows you to easily create and manage multiple shopping lists simultaneously, sorting items by store or category. Moreover, you can easily “check off” items on your list as you pick them up during your shopping with just a simple tap on the screen. And, of course, you can add new items with your voice. Furthermore, the app’s smart suggestions learn from your past shopping experiences. Therefore, creating lists becomes even faster over time. Grocery makes your Apple Watch the ultimate shopping guide.
Audio Apps
17. Audible
You can now take your favorite audiobooks with you using the new Audible app for the Apple Watch. Moreover, you can stream or download audiobooks directly to your watch and listen to them using your favorite pair of wireless headphones. You can control playback, change volume, and switch chapters with simple wrist gestures. The app has a clean interface that displays book covers and progress. Moreover, its offline mode guarantees uninterrupted listening at any place. Now, off you go; download a portable library, open Audible on your Apple Watch, and listen away in peace and silence.
18. Spotify
Spotify is the one-stop shop for listening to music from every artist imaginable. Now, you can bring your music along with Spotify for Apple Watch. The mobile app development allows you to browse playlists and albums, control playback, and discover new songs right from the wrist. Spotify has an intuitive interface design that allows you to easily navigate through your music library and quick access to favorite tracks. Moreover, you can use Spotify Connect to control playback on other devices and download playlists for offline listening. With Spotify on Apple Watch, you get access to millions of songs right from your wrist.
19. Apple Music
What could be a better way to dive into a world of sound than with Apple’s very own Apple Music? You can download Apple Music on the Apple Watch and stream your entire library as well as get access to created playlists. Moreover, you can use voice commands since they are integrated with Siri for hands-free control. Also, its offline mode lets you listen to music without an internet connection. Furthermore, Apple Music features like real-time lyrics and personalized recommendations further improve your listening experience on the go.
20. Overcast
Overcast allows you to take your podcast experience to a whole new level on your Apple Watch. This app offers a lot of smart playback features like voice boost and smart speed that further enhance your listening experience. You can easily manage all of your podcast subscriptions, create custom playlists, and even control the playback directly from your wrist. Having a clean interface with offline playback support, Overcast allows you to listen to your favorite podcasts anywhere using your Apple Watch.
Entertainment Best Apps for Apple Watch
21. Golfshot
Golfshot steps up your golf game using your Apple Watch. This is the best Apple Watch golf app and is, in many ways, comparable to the Arccos Caddie app. Golfshot provides exact GPS distances to the green, hazards, and layups on over 45,000 courses worldwide. Moreover, you can track your scores and view hole flyovers while receiving recommended clubbing based on your playing history. Golfshot is one of the best apps for tracking shots, thanks to its unique features. Its integration with Apple Health will help you analyze and improve your performance in the course.
22. OneFootball
Now, football fans can stay up to date on all things football on their Apple Watch thanks to the OneFootball app. OneFootball is by far the best Apple Watch apps for football fans, as it never lets you miss out on your favorite team’s match result. This app provides real-time scores, live match updates, and breaking news from top leagues around the world. Furthermore, you can get push notifications for your favorite teams and competitions. You can take a look at league tables as well as upcoming fixtures right from your wrists. Thanks to the clean interface and broad coverage, OneFootball keeps all football fans connected to the beautiful game, no matter where they are in the world.
23. Asteroid Commando
You can now play Asteroid Commando right from your wrist. This adaptation of the arcade classic offers intuitive controls using the digital crown and touchscreen. The game allows you to blast asteroids and dodge alien ships for high scores in quick play sessions. With its nostalgic graphics and addictive gameplay, Asteroid Commando proves that even small screens can bring big fun.
24. Star Duster
Star Duster is yet another cosmic cleaning adventure game that you can play on your Apple Watch. Moreover, this game will make your watch a mini space-cleaning device. In order to play the game, you will need to tilt and rotate your wrist to move through star systems, collecting space dust while avoiding all sorts of obstacles in the way. Furthermore, the game creatively uses the watch sensors and display to provide a unique and engaging gaming experience using an Apple Watch.
25. ArcEmu
Last but not least is ArcEmu, which is one of the best gaming apps on Apple Watch. This game brings the GameBoy experience to its full glory. ArcEmu allows you to relive the golden age of gaming by offering classic arcade games on your wrist. It offers a library of retro games optimized to work seamlessly on the small screen. Moreover, you can navigate the menu and control games using the digital crown and touchscreen input. You can also create custom button layouts for each game. ArcEmu makes your Apple Watch quite literally a pocket arcade. So, now you can take a trip down memory lane by easily playing quick nostalgic games on your Apple Watch. This will definitely brighten up your day.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it, folks. Those are the 25 best Apple Watch apps you can download and install on your Apple Watch. However, there are many more great apps that we did not mention in this blog. But it is safe to say that smartwatches are the future of watches. These apps might lack in terms of aesthetics that analog watches offer. However, the apps and features that smartwatches bring to the table are hard to argue against. So, the compensation for going all digital and leaving analog machinery behind is good enough. If you need to develop a smartwatch app for an Apple Watch or an Android smartwatch, you can consider Linkitsoft for the job. We have more blogs like these on our website and would love for you to check them out.
