Less than a week after it was pulled, Apple has re-released watchOS 5 beta 1 to developers following reports that the software bricked wearables, particularly on Apple Watch Series 2 models.
watchOS 5 adds plenty of new features for health and fitness tracking. Aside from adding new workout types for yoga activities and hiking, you can now challenge your friends to activity competitions up to seven days in length.
When the software was pulled developers attempting to download a copy of the software were met with a message stating that the software is currently unavailable and that the company is investigating possible issues.
watchOS 5 includes a new workout tracking mode that allows Apple Watch to track an activity when it detects that you might be working out. Inversely, it also allows Apple Watch to stop tracking the activity when it detects you have stopped working out. You will also be able to see more detailed information such as rolling mile times and pace reminders.
watchOS 5 will be available as a free update this Fall and will be compatible with the Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3 watches. This is the first update that will not be coming to the original first-generation Apple Watch that was released three years ago.