watchOS 11 debuts with workout intensity monitoring & better Cycle Tracking

The update introduces more customizable Activity Rings, advanced health monitoring with the Vitals app, and the new Training Load tool for athletes. Additionally, users can enjoy a revamped Photos Face, smarter widget functionality with the Smart Stack, and innovative safety features like Check In.

With broader support for personalization and privacy, watchOS 11 continues to make the Apple Watch an indispensable part of daily life.

Health & fitness

One of the standout updates in watchOS 11 is the enhanced Activity Rings, which now allow users to pause their activity tracking. Users can maintain their streaks even when taking a break for a day, week, or longer.

The rings are now more customizable, allowing users to adjust their goals daily to match their lifestyle and fitness plans better.

Next, the new Vitals app provides users an all-in-one overview of their overnight health data. Vitals help establish a typical range for various health metrics, making monitoring deviations easier and receiving notifications when something is amiss.

Users significantly gain better insights into their health if factors like medications, elevation, or illness influence their well-being.

Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate Training Load, which helps athletes monitor workout intensity over time. Comparing current activity levels with the previous month's data allows users to understand their training patterns better and make informed decisions about adjusting their routines.

Finally, the update enhances Cycle Tracking, focusing on pregnancy. It now displays gestational age and tracks pregnancy across health charts, providing expectant mothers a comprehensive view of their progress.

Personalization with the Photos face

The Photos Face on Apple Watch has been reimagined. It uses machine learning to curate and display 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, allowing users to make their watch face unique.

Compatibility and availability

The watchOS 11 update requires an iPhone Xs or later running 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.

Apple will soon announce the date of availability.