Apple Watch Series 12 introduces Audio Intelligence, a feature that uses the built-in microphone to constantly gather audio. This allows users to rewind real-life conversations and receive alerts for important sounds like alarms or a crying baby. The feature is powered by the S11 chip and integrates with Apple Intelligence models on iPhone.

Apple emphasizes privacy, stating that raw audio is processed on-device via a dedicated Secure Enclave and immediately deleted. Users can opt out of each Audio Intelligence feature, and Siri Recap, which generates summaries of conversations, must be manually enabled. A chime and microphone indicator are provided for transparency.

Audio Intelligence includes sound recognition, Live Rewind (transcribing the last 15 seconds), Siri Recap, and Shazam for music identification. Apple positions this as a tool for accessibility, particularly for people with hearing loss, while acknowledging broader societal implications of constant audio monitoring.

The Apple Watch Series 12 starts at $399 and will be available September 18. The feature represents a significant step in wearable technology, blending convenience with privacy safeguards.