Apple Unveils WatchOS 11 with New AI Features and Training Metrics

Apple has announced WatchOS 11, the next update for the Apple Watch, during its annual WWDC keynote. The full release is expected this fall, with a developer beta available now. This update will be compatible with Apple Watch Series 6 and later, paired with an iPhone running iOS 18.

One of the key features in WatchOS 11 is the integration with Apple Intelligence. When paired with an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max, summarized notifications will be forwarded to the watch.

A new "training load" feature measures the intensity of your workout routines by analyzing heart rate, pace, elevation, weight, and height to provide a training effort score from 1-10. This helps users gauge their physical condition and adjust their training accordingly. It is available for various cardio-based workouts and allows users to manually enter effort ratings for other activities like strength training. This data can be tracked over a 28-day period, comparing the past seven days of effort against the average.

Another addition is the Vitals app, which monitors health metrics like heart rate. It tracks vitals over time, comparing them to typical ranges based on historical data, and alerts users when metrics are out of range.

Apple has also extended the Double Tap feature to developers. Double Tap lets users interact with apps by double-tapping their thumb and forefinger. This feature now includes third-party app support, allowing actions such as skipping tracks in the music app or sending messages without touching the screen. It can also be used to scroll through apps like Messages and Weather.

WatchOS 11 introduces a redesigned Photos watch face that uses machine learning to curate photos and create depth effects. Users can customize the photo with different fonts and colors for the time display. Dynamic mode changes the watch face image every time the wrist is raised.

The Smart Stack feature now includes additional widgets in WatchOS 11, such as Live Activities. Users can view live sports scores or Uber ETAs at the top of their stack. Other new additions to the Smart Stack include widgets for Shazam, Photos, Distance, and severe weather alerts.

The Apple Watch now includes a Translate app, which automatically appears in the Smart Stack when traveling to a location with a different language. Users can dictate into the watch and hear responses in another language.

The Workout app now features a check-in option, allowing users to notify friends and family when they arrive home from a workout. Custom workouts including swimming are also supported.

The Apple Watch also now supports more interactive widgets for smart home devices and offers offline turn-by-turn navigation for custom walking routes and hikes in all US national parks. Lastly, Tap to Cash lets users send and receive Apple Cash by holding their Apple Watch near another watch or iPhone.