This update can turn the Apple Watch into a cycling computer

Apple has unveiled the next update to the Apple Watch, which will transform this device into something very similar to a cyclocomputer. The main novelty is that it will now be compatible with Bluetooth sensors for speed, cadence and power meters. Still without a release date, it could hit the market in September.

Apple Watch prepares its definitive assault on the world of cyclocomputers

Data has gone from being the preserve of competitive cycling to being an important part of training for many amateur cyclists. Distance covered, average speed or altitude are some of the most common. Everyone uses them to analyze their performance and observe their evolution.

For this purpose, the market offers a wide range of possibilities ranging from inexpensive speedometers that provide the most essential data to complex cyclocomputers up to the level of any professional. The debate between cyclocomputers and watches has led to long discussions between the defenders of the two sides.

Apple Watch has laid out a plan to end this dilemma and break into the market with a best-of-both-worlds approach. With the new update, Apple WatchOS 10 will support Bluetooth cycling sensors for cadence, speed and power meters. Quite a statement of intent for the competition.

Until now, many people have used this watch for their cycling trips and although the result was more than acceptable, the truth is that it lacked the finesse and precision of what a cyclocomputer could provide.

The cadence, speed and power data that can be displayed thanks to the compatibility achieved by Apple can be consulted in the Workouts application and recorded in Apple Health.

This implies that the data will be accessible by third-party applications, which in turn will make implementing it in power meters or similar easier.

In addition, Apple Watch users will have more detailed data in front of them, such as FTP, which will appear automatically. Moreover, Apple - through another update - will also allow offline map downloads for Apple Maps and will offer topographic maps with contour lines and points of interest.

Any workout started on Apple Watch will appear as Live Activity on the iPhone screen. When you open the lock screen, the mobile will provide a view with data on current speed, average speed, distance, heart rate and power meter data.

At the moment it is not known which devices it will be compatible with and the launch date, although the latter could be sometime this September.