I think that iPhone 8 is jsut about the finished iPhone. What comes after that is a ton of “new tail lights and fenders” in order to keep selling iPhones.

There is one particular feature, though, which is available on Pro models from iPhone 12 Pro. That is the LIDAR addition to the cameras. This makes it possible to do 3D scans of rooms and objects with apps like Polycam. - I have that, but I must admit that even though the hardware is OK there is a a long way to go for the apps.

So staying on iPhone 8 and getting a compatible watch is the sensible solution. - If you need an. Apple watch at all. I use my Watch 6 for a lot of very practical purposes with different apps/complications. But none of all that fitness stuff. I’m 72.

It could be a good excuse for a new iPhone…

It is not super convenient. Screen to small. Shopping list too big. Use iPhone.

Both Apple Watch and iPhone can listen to Siri, but they do not always respond to the same Siri request simultaneously. When you say “Siri” or “Hey Siri” near multiple devices, the devices use Bluetooth to communicate with each other and determine which one should respond to the request.The device that responds is the one that heard you best or was recently raised or used

To ensure that your Apple Watch responds to Siri requests, you can press and hold the Digital Crown to make sure it is the only device that listens.For your iPhone or iPad, you can place it face down so that Siri doesn’t respond to your voice

If you have a HomePod, you can say “Hey Siri, turn off Hey Siri,” or use the Home app to turn off Listen for “Hey Siri”

To turn it back on, touch and hold the top of HomePod, then say “Turn on Hey Siri”

Keep in mind that Siri features may vary by country or region

The watch is working behind the scenes. Normal. Just wait it out.

I would go to Apple’s homepage and read all about it there.

https://www.apple.com/watch/