Apple provided a preview of watchOS 11 at WWDC 2024 on Monday, highlighting the upcoming features tailored for Apple Watch users.
This new update, slated to enhance health insights, personalization, and connectivity, introduces the Vitals app, training load measurement, and customizable Activity rings, among other functionalities.
Apple Unveils watchOS 11, New Vitals App
The Vitals app was designed to let users monitor vital health metrics such as heart and respiratory rates and blood oxygen levels directly from their Apple Watch.
Apple says that this app will offer valuable context to users, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health on a day-to-day basis. Notifications will also alert users when certain metrics deviate from their typical range, potentially signaling underlying health issues.
Moreover, watchOS 11 brings enhanced support for pregnant users, acknowledging the unique needs of this demographic. Features like Cycle Tracking and mental health assessments cater to the physical and mental changes experienced during pregnancy, ensuring a holistic approach to maternal health monitoring.
A notable feature introduced in watchOS 11 is training load measurement, providing users with insights into how their workout intensity and duration impact their bodies over time.
This feature assists users in optimizing their training regimen for improved fitness and performance, particularly when preparing for events like races or marathons.
Customization and Personalization of Apple Watch
WatchOS 11 also boosts customization, with users able to pause Activity rings and tailor ring goals based on individual preferences and circumstances.
Furthermore, the Fitness app on iPhone offers a customizable Summary tab, allowing users to track specific metrics related to their workouts. Personalization reaches new heights with updates to watch faces in watchOS 11.
Apple said the Smart Stack becomes more intelligent, offering relevant widgets based on factors like time, location, and routines. Additionally, the Photos watch face leverages machine learning to curate personalized photo options, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the Apple Watch experience.
Regarding connectivity and convenience, watchOS 11 introduces features like Check In, enabling users to alert friends or family members during workouts.
Translate App on Apple Watch
The Translate application will also debut on the Apple Watch, granting users direct access to translations in 20 supported languages right from their wrist.
Leveraging the enhanced intelligence of the Smart Stack, the Apple Watch will suggest the Translate app widget when users venture to regions with languages not native to their device. Translate also now offers romanization, aiding users in pronouncing languages utilizing the Latin alphabet.
Moreover, the double-tap gesture is now functional for scrolling through any application on Apple Watch, including Messages, Calendar, and Weather. According to Apple, this enhancement simplifies one-handed interaction with the device, enhancing user convenience.
"This fall, watchOS 11 makes Apple Watch an even more essential companion by offering users additional actionable insights into their health and fitness, more personalization to fit their unique needs, and new ways to stay connected while on the go," David Clark, Apple's senior director of watchOS Engineering, said in a press statement.
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