Apple watchOS 11 brings new health, fitness, and personalization features
What's the story
Apple has released the latest watchOS 11, packed with an array of new health and fitness features.
The update includes more customizable Activity Rings and advanced health monitoring with the Vitals app. It also introduces a Training Load tool specifically designed for athletes.
Additionally, users can now experience a revamped Photos Face and smarter widget functionality with the Smart Stack feature.
Health monitoring
Enhanced Activity Rings and Vitals app
The watchOS 11 update has significantly improved the Activity Rings feature, now allowing users to pause their activity tracking. This means they can maintain their streaks even during breaks.
The rings have also become more customizable, enabling users to adjust their goals daily according to their lifestyle and fitness plans.
The new Vitals app offers an all-in-one overview of overnight health data, helping establish a typical range for various health metrics and making it easier to monitor deviations.
Fitness features
Training load tool and cycle tracking improvements
The Training Load tool is a new addition to watchOS 11, designed to help athletes monitor their workout intensity over time.
By comparing current activity levels with previous month's data, users can gain better insights into their training patterns.
The update also enhances Cycle Tracking with a focus on pregnancy, now displaying gestational age and tracking pregnancy across health charts for expectant mothers.
Personalization
Revamped Photos face and Smart Stack feature
The Photos Face on Apple Watch has been reimagined in watchOS 11, using machine learning to present the best images from a user's photo library.
The redesigned watch face offers greater customization, including adjusting time size, layout, and font. New color options add a personal touch.
Additionally, the new firmware introduces smarter widget functionality with the Smart Stack feature for enhanced personalization and convenience.
Update requirements
Compatibility of watchOS 11
The watchOS 11 update requires an iPhone Xs or later running the new iOS 18.
It's supported on the Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), Apple Watch Series 6 through 9, and both generations of Apple Watch Ultra.