Apple earned applause when the company thought it wise to include a built-in compass with the impending release of the Apple Watch Series 5. The welcome feature should prove its usefulness during outdoor activities, but the same will surely fail with a magnet nearby, which can be found on specific models of bands for the wearable.
This issue, according to Apple, is called "magnet interference" and to be clear is not a glitch, hardware, and software, that should encourage one not to buy the Apple Watch Series 5 when it becomes available by the week's end. The truth is, it's a natural thing as a magnet in any form or package will certainly cause malfunctions on the compass.
Specifically, the compass sensor will mistake the magnetic force as the gravitational pull of the planet, and that means false or inaccurate readings on the following: direction, latitude, longitude, heading, incline, and elevation.
As stated, there is nothing wrong with the device, and according to iDropNews.com the problem can be avoided by simply heeding Apple's disclaimer, which clearly states: "Some bands contain magnets and may cause interference with Compass on Apple Watch."
Per the same report, the exact builds of bands that will keep the Apple Watch compass from functioning well are the Milanese Loop, Leather Loop, and Modern Buckle bands. These models are designed for active users, and the magnet component mainly functions to the watch from falling off even in rigorous movement.
Understandably, these make of bands are preferred by users when they hike, but if the use of the compass in the Apple Watch Series 5 is of prime import, it would be best to consider other models.
The best alternative would be any of these: Sport Bands, Sport Loops, Link Bracelets, Nike, and Hermès bands, as listed by MacRumors. And keep in mind that the same applies when picking up from bands provided outside of Apple.
It must be noted as well that magnetic band or not, the GPS navigational feature of the Apple Watch Series 5 is unlikely to be affected.
In a report, 9to5Mac said, users with the magnetic band on their wrist can still rely on the GPS function of the wearable, but they need to be advised that "t would limit the compass's ability to display standing orientation."
So if the plan is to pick the Apple Watch Series 5, which Apple will start selling on September 20, one has to make sure of getting the right band for a corresponding purpose. Remember that magnet on a watch band will make for a problematic compass.
