Apple has introduced watchOS 11, the latest major update for the Apple Watch, boasting a range of new health and workout functionalities designed to enhance user experience.
Flexible Activity Rings
In a significant update, Activity Rings in watchOS 11 can now be customized by day of the week and can be paused for a rest day, allowing users to maintain their award streaks without interruption. Additionally, users can set their workouts to notify a friend upon safe completion, making activities like late-night runs more secure.
Advanced Training Load Monitoring
watchOS 11 debuts a “training load” feature that helps users monitor workout intensity over time. By leveraging a sophisticated algorithm that incorporates heart rate, altitude, workout duration, and personal data such as age and weight, the Apple Watch can now provide a detailed estimate of your effort rating and overall training load.
Comprehensive Vitals App
The new Vitals app offers a thorough overview of daily health metrics. It compares current statistics to historical data, flagging any deviations from typical ranges. If multiple health metrics are out of range, users will receive a personalized message explaining potential impacts on their health.
Enhanced Cycle Tracking in watchOS 11
Cycle tracking in watchOS 11 now includes estimates of gestational age, allowing pregnant users to review key metrics such as high heart rate notification thresholds. This feature provides valuable insights into pregnancy progression and overall health.
Smart Stack and Widgets
Widgets in watchOS 11 will be seamlessly integrated into the Smart Stack, providing relevant information at the right time. For instance, the Translate app will automatically appear when you travel to a different country, and the Weather app will pop up when rain is expected. Additionally, Live Activities are now available on the Apple Watch for the first time.
Improved Photos Watch Face in watchOS 11
The Photos watch face has received a significant upgrade, giving users more control and utilizing machine learning to automatically crop photos for optimal display. The update also includes the Translate app, enhancing communication capabilities directly from the wrist.
watchOS 11: Availability
The first developer beta of the new OS is available starting today. A public beta will follow in July, with the official release scheduled for the fall.
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