Apple announced its next Apple Watch update, Watch OS 11, during its annual WWDC keynote. The new software update focuses on fitness, health, and connectivity. Watch OS 11 will be available in the fall, but a developer beta is currently available. It is compatible with Apple Watches starting from the Series 6, and iPhone running iOS 18. The update includes new features such as training load, which measures the intensity of your training routine. It also allows you to pause your activity ring progress when needed and offers a new Vitals app to track your health metrics.
Training load is a new feature that utilizes data like heart rate, pace, and elevation to provide an estimate of your training effort. It assigns a score from 1-10 based on various factors and allows you to adjust the effort as needed. This feature is beneficial for monitoring progress and avoiding overtraining when preparing for competitive events. The Vitals app tracks your health metrics over time and alerts you when they fall outside the typical range based on historical data. Additionally, the new Double Tap feature is now accessible to developers, enabling interaction with apps using a double tap gesture.
Watch OS 11 also introduces new watch face customizations, such as a redesigned Photos watch face that uses machine learning to curate photos for the display. Live Activities have been added to the Smart Stack feature, displaying real-time updates like sports scores or Uber ETA. The Translate app allows for language translation on the go, and custom workouts for pool swims are now supported. The update also enhances cycle tracking for pregnancy and introduces more interactive widgets for smart home devices. Apple Maps now supports offline turn-by-turn navigation for walking routes in U.S. national parks.
In addition to these features, Watch OS 11 includes various improvements and enhancements to the Apple Watch user experience. It offers support for customized workout goals for each day of the week and the ability to check in with friends and family after a workout. Custom workouts for pool swims and support for interactive widgets for smart home devices are also part of the update. The Tap to Cash feature allows users to send and receive Apple Cash by holding their Apple Watch near another watch or iPhone. Overall, Watch OS 11 brings a range of new capabilities and enhancements to Apple Watch users, enhancing the overall user experience and making the device more versatile and functional for everyday use.
