Apple’s latest update to its smartwatch operating system, watchOS 11, was officially released following its initial introduction at WWDC 2024. The update brings a host of new features aimed at enhancing user experience and health monitoring capabilities. Here’s a deep dive into what’s new and why it might be the most functional update yet for Apple Watch users.
New Horizons in Health: Sleep Apnea Detection Comes to Apple Watch
Among the standout features of watchOS 11 is the introduction of sleep apnea detection, a significant addition that highlights Apple’s continuing commitment to health technology. Utilizing advanced sensors, the Apple Watch can now monitor breathing patterns during sleep and alert users to potential disturbances indicative of sleep apnea. This feature has been eagerly anticipated since its mention during the Apple Watch Series 10 reveal and is available on both the new Series 10 and last year’s Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2.
This new capability is not just innovative but also boasts the approval of the FDA, ensuring that it meets rigorous health and safety standards. It mirrors an earlier initiative by Samsung with its Galaxy Watch 7, showcasing an industry-wide push toward more health-centric wearables.
Comprehensive Health Tracking with Vitals App
watchOS 11 introduces the Vitals app, which aggregates overnight health data and provides insights into deviations from established health baselines. Whether it’s tracking sleep patterns or the effects of dietary choices on one’s body, the Vitals app offers a consolidated view of various health metrics, making it easier for users to stay informed about their physical state.
Enhancements in Fitness and Activity Tracking
For fitness enthusiasts, the update enhances the Activity app with new features like Training Load, which assesses workout intensity over time to help users understand their performance relative to personal averages. With support for multiple types of workouts, this feature is perfect for anyone looking to optimize their exercise routine. Furthermore, Apple has responded to user feedback by allowing more customization of Activity ring goals. Users can now pause their activity goals when necessary—such as during illness or recovery days—without breaking their streaks. This level of customization extends to setting different goals for different days, ensuring that the fitness tracking is not just smart, but also adaptable to the user’s lifestyle.
Smart Stack and Live Activities: A Smarter Way to Stay Updated
The update also brings smarter widget management through the Smart Stack feature, which dynamically adjusts which widgets are displayed based on the context, such as weather changes or calendar events. Additionally, Live Activities from the iPhone have made their way to the Apple Watch, offering real-time updates for sports scores or ride-sharing service arrivals.
Ensuring Safety and Connectivity with New Features
watchOS 11 also debuts the Check-In feature, enhancing user safety by allowing notifications to be sent to friends upon reaching a predetermined destination. This feature is accessible directly from the Messages and Workouts apps, providing peace of mind for users and their loved ones.
Ready to Upgrade?
To experience these features, Apple Watch users need to first update their paired iPhone to iOS 18. Following this, they can proceed to update their watch through the General > Software Update path in the Watch app. With these updates, Apple continues to refine its ecosystem, ensuring that its devices offer not only cutting-edge technology but also meaningful improvements to daily life and health management.
