Apple is gearing up to release watchOS 11 alongside the highly anticipated Apple Watch Series 10. This software update, first unveiled at WWDC 2024, is packed with features designed to enhance the Apple Watch experience for all users. We’ve been testing the beta versions and are excited to share insights into some of the key improvements.
When Can We Expect watchOS 11?
Apple’s iPhone 16 event is scheduled for September 9th, 2024. Alongside the new iPhones, the event is expected to unveil the Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and potentially the fourth-generation AirPods. It’s highly likely that watchOS 11 will be released to current Apple Watch users around the same time. While an exact release date hasn’t been confirmed, it’s anticipated to be sometime around September 9th or shortly thereafter.
Apple Watch Compatibility for watchOS 11
To enjoy watchOS 11, you’ll need an iPhone XS or later running iOS 18. The update will come pre-installed on the 2024 Apple Watch models, but it will also be compatible with the following existing Apple Watch models:
* Apple Watch SE (2nd generation)
* Apple Watch Series 6
* Apple Watch Series 7
* Apple Watch Series 8
* Apple Watch Series 9
* Apple Watch Ultra
* Apple Watch Ultra 2
It’s important to note that not every feature in watchOS 11 will be available on all Apple Watch models.
A Deeper Look at watchOS 11 Features:
Smart Stack Enhancements:
The Smart Stack, introduced in watchOS 10, allows quick access to important information through widgets. With watchOS 11, the Smart Stack gets even smarter with enhanced widgets and Live Activities. This means you can see information like weather alerts, sports scores, and more, dynamically changing as time passes and your location changes. The Smart Stack works with both native and third-party apps, promising to become increasingly valuable as developers adopt it. To access Smart Stack, simply turn the Digital Crown or use Double Tap on compatible watches.
Customizable Activity Rings:
One of the most welcome changes in watchOS 11 is the ability to customize Activity Rings. Previously, you couldn’t skip a day without losing your streak or adjusting your goals. Now, you can pause your rings for a day, a week, or even a month without interrupting your streaks. This adds much-needed flexibility to the Activity Rings feature.
New Vitals App:
watchOS 11 introduces the Vitals app, which makes it easier to monitor critical overnight health metrics. These metrics include your heart rate, respiratory rate, wrist temperature, blood oxygen level, and sleep duration. The availability of these metrics depends on your specific Apple Watch model. The Vitals app also alerts you when these metrics fall outside your normal range, providing context about possible causes, such as medication changes, elevation, alcohol use, illness, or other factors.
Training Load Calculator:
For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, watchOS 11 brings a new Training Load calculator. This tool helps you understand the stress and strain your body undergoes during physical activities. It looks at the intensity and duration of your workouts over the past week and compares it to the previous 28 days. This information can help you make informed decisions about future workout plans. The Training Load also incorporates a new effort metric, where you can rate how hard you exercised after most cardio workouts. It takes into account your pace, elevation, heart rate, and personal data like age, height, and weight.
Custom Workout Improvements:
watchOS 11 introduces several new features for custom workouts, including:
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Distance and route maps for rowing workouts:
Previously unavailable, these maps will now provide visual guidance during your rowing sessions.*
Custom pool workouts:
You can now create personalized workouts tailored to your swimming routines.*
“Up Next” workout view:
This feature keeps you informed about the next step in your workout, making it easier to stay on track.Cycle Tracking Enhancements:
Cycle Tracking, introduced last year, gets a significant upgrade in watchOS 11 for pregnant users. The Health app will now show your gestation age and track pregnancy across all health charts. It also monitors various metrics and alerts you when factors like heart rate fall outside the normal range. Additionally, it customizes alerts for factors like walking steadiness and mental health to accommodate pregnancy.
Translate App on Apple Watch:
The popular Translate app is now available on Apple Watch, supporting 20 languages. You can translate by typing or dictating phrases on your watch and even play the translation aloud. The best part? You don’t need your iPhone to use it. Simply download the desired language to your Apple Watch. The Translate app is also accessible through Smart Stack, making it readily available.
Redesigned Photos Watch Face:
Apple rarely updates its watch faces, but watchOS 11 introduces a redesigned Photos face that utilizes machine learning to create a visually appealing experience. You can choose photos from your existing collection or allow Apple to curate a selection for you. The result is a dynamic and ever-changing watch face.
Other Noteworthy Features:
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Maps App for Hiking:
The Maps app now includes hikes for every national park in the U.S., providing offline access and turn-by-turn voice guidance.*
Double Tap Functionality:
The Double Tap feature, available on Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Ultra 2, and upcoming models, allows quick actions by tapping your index finger and thumb. This feature is now open to developers via an API, allowing third-party apps to integrate this functionality.*
Check In Feature:
watchOS 11 introduces a Check In feature that lets you notify a friend or loved one when you’ve reached your destination. Simply enter your destination or arrival time into the Messages app on your Apple Watch. You can also activate Check In through the Workout app to let your family and friends know you’re out and about.watchOS 11 is a significant update with many exciting new features. As we get closer to the iPhone 16 event, we might see even more additions. We’ll keep you updated with the latest news and information about this game-changing update for Apple Watch users.
