WatchOS 11, What's New?

Just moments ago, Apple held its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024, where they unveiled a host of new features for the Apple Watch through watchOS 11. In this detailed overview, we'll dive into the notable updates and improvements coming to your Apple Watch soon. While some features might seem minor, others are quite intriguing, even though Apple kept certain details vague. We'll explore what's new and what to expect when the beta version rolls out.

First and foremost, Apple Watch is finally introducing a training load feature, a tool often seen in Garmin watches. This addition is significant as Apple has traditionally lacked proper training metrics like training load or training status. The training load feature in watchOS 11 is polished and visually appealing, in true Apple fashion. It allows users to view their 7-day training load directly on the watch screen, displayed on a graph. For a more detailed view, users can access an expanded version on their iPhone.

Another new metric introduced is the effort rating, which will automatically evaluate the intensity of your workouts on a 1 to 10 scale based on heart rate data. Unlike the manual perceived effort ratings found in competitors like Garmin, Suunto, or Coros, Apple’s effort rating is generated automatically. Users can also manually adjust the rating if they feel the automatic assessment is inaccurate. This effort rating integrates with the training load, impacting your overall training status and history.

The training load feature also generates a training status, providing insights into whether you are above average, overreaching, or below average in your fitness regimen. This helps users understand the impact of their training on their fitness levels.

Moving on to customization, the activity app on your iPhone now includes a customizable summary page. You can rearrange widgets to suit your preferences, and a new weekly mileage widget has been added, which is a welcome addition for runners. The ability to pause your rings is another new feature. If you are injured or ill, you can pause your daily activity rings, preventing the demoralizing effect of failing to close them due to circumstances beyond your control.

A new Vitals app will also be introduced, aimed at tracking daily vitals like skin temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate. The app will alert you if any metrics show concerning trends, encouraging proactive health management. This app positions Apple Watch to compete with wellness-focused devices like the WHOOP band or the Oura Ring, though it lacks a recovery score.

Enhanced Smart Stack widgets are another highlight of watchOS 11. New widgets include real-time precipitation updates, live translation, and live updates for services like Uber arrivals and flight delays. These additions enhance the practicality and functionality of the Apple Watch in everyday situations.

Custom watch faces are also getting an upgrade with machine learning algorithms that enhance and frame photos more effectively. Examples demonstrated during the keynote showed text blending creatively with images, adding a personalized touch to watch faces.

Under-the-hood improvements include a double-tap API, expanding the functionality of the double-tap gesture introduced with Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 9. This feature allows users to interact with their watch through finger taps, potentially enabling innovative applications by third-party developers.

One of the more intriguing features briefly mentioned was the addition of distance and route support for maps within workouts. This could mean that users will finally have access to a map within the workout app, eliminating the need to switch between the workout app and Apple Maps during an activity. This would be a significant improvement for users accustomed to Garmin's integrated map functionality.

Turn-by-turn directions for hiking and walking during workouts were also mentioned but not elaborated on. This feature could enhance the navigation experience for outdoor activities, though specifics remain to be seen.

Lastly, for swimmers, Apple hinted at the introduction of custom swimming workouts. While details were sparse, this addition has been long-awaited by many users and could bring tailored workout options to swimming activities.

WatchOS 11 brings a host of exciting new features and improvements to the Apple Watch, focusing on enhanced training tools, customization options, and overall user experience. As we await the beta release, these updates promise to make the Apple Watch an even more powerful and versatile companion for fitness enthusiasts and everyday users alike.