Apple Fitness Plus is available with an iPhone or iPad only, starting October 24th

Soon, you won’t need an Apple Watch to close your rings. Anyone with an iPhone that has been updated to iOS 16.1 will be able to close their rings starting October 24th. can subscribe to Apple’s Fitness Plus service. A free trial of three months is available to anyone who purchases an Apple TV, iPhone, or iPad. But if you aren’t keen on buying a new gadget, Apple is also working with SilverSneakers, Target, UnitedHealthcare, and Mobile Health to help users sign up at no extra cost.

This move was planned for a while. Apple announced at WWDC that iOS 16 would contain the For all iPhone owners, Fitness app. Then, at last month’s Far Out event, Apple clarified that also meant it was Decoupling Fitness Plus and the Apple WatchYou should also have one. The Apple Watch Series 3 and later was required for both Fitness Plus and the Fitness app. That made subscribing a pricey proposition, as you’d need to buy an iPhone, Apple Watch, A $79.99 annual subscription. You can also get it monthly for $9.99 or with the Apple One Premier plan, $29.95 monthly.

iPhone-only subscribers will have full access to Fitness Plus’ catalog of workouts, meditations, and programs. Of course, you will get a “better” experience if you DoHave an Apple Watch. The iPhone version of the Fitness app tracks your activity using the phone’s motion sensors, so you won’t see certain metrics like real-time heart rate pop up on your screen. Instead, you’ll see on-screen trainer guidance, interval timing, and estimated calories burned and still get credit toward closing your Move ring.

Content-wise, Apple is also adding a new Artist Spotlight series featuring Taylor Swift’s MidnightAlbum, a new Yoga for Every Runner Program, and more Time to Walk guests Ted Lasso Singer Meghan Trainor and actor Hannah Waddingham

Decoupling Fitness Plus from the watch slots in with Apple’s pivot to services in recent years. Fitness Plus’ overall vibe is designed to be as welcoming as possible, making it ideal for beginner and intermediate levels. As many people can attest to, keeping streaks and closing your rings can be very difficult. Obsession has become a bit of a habit. If iPhone users end up getting hooked on the service, there’s a greater chance they’ll pick up an Apple Watch to get the full experience. The smartwatch is already one of the most loved on the market. Around 30 percent of iPhone owners own one.