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Your guide to Apple's Watch OS 2 update

The Apple Watch has received a major update that will change the way you use the watch. CNET explains how to install it, what it does and how to use it.

Sarah Tew/CNET

The first major update for the Apple Watch is now available for download. Apple's Watch OS 2 includes new watch faces, improved third-party apps and better performance. It even adds more Wi-Fi support so you can run apps, make calls and issue voice commands without the need for an iPhone close by.

Read on to learn more about all of the cool new features in Watch OS 2 and how to install it on your Apple Watch. This guide will be updated frequently with more tips and tricks from members of our How To and Reviews team, so be sure to keep checking back.

Getting started

How to update your Apple Watch to Watch OS 2: Follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition.

Now playing: Watch this: Here's what Watch OS 2 can do for your Apple Watch (hands-on)
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New features

Create a custom watch face on your Apple Watch: Apple added the option for users to set personal photos as a watch face on the Apple Watch with Watch OS 2. Here's how.

How to use multiple colors in your Digital Touch sketches: Use as many colors as you'd like when drawing pictures for friends on your Apple Watch running Watch OS 2.

How to enable 'Nightstand Mode' on your Apple Watch: With Watch OS 2, your Apple Watch now doubles as an alarm clock.

How to manage, use third-party complications on Apple Watch: Complications on the Apple Watch are about to get a whole lot more useful.

How to create different contact groups on your Apple Watch: Instead of one circle of friends on your Apple Watch, you can now group and categorize friends at will.

Apple Faces offers unique wallpapers for your Apple Watch: It's time to step up your Apple Watch personalization game.