There are a number of new and updated tools for the Apple Watch in watchOS 11. Here are the features we like the most and how you can benefit from using them.
Apple’s next big Apple Watch update — watchOS 11 — is here. This software update was first announced by Apple at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2024) in June and is packed with new and enhanced features that will benefit every type of Apple Watch user.
We have been using the various versions of watchOS 11 betas since Apple began releasing them. We have extensively tested the new features to understand their functionality. A few new and updated features stand out, including the latest version of Smart Stack, a redesigned Photos face, and exciting changes to the Activity Rings tool.
Here’s an in-depth look at watchOS 11, its features, and more.watchOS 11 release date
At its recent “It’s Glowtime” event, Apple didn’t just introduce the iPhone 16. It also revealed the Apple Watch Series 10 and noted new features in the Apple Watch Ultra 2. It also told us when to expect the first public version of watchOS 11.
In addition to shipping out of the box with the Apple Watch Series 10, the new software update will be released on Monday, September 16, for all older Apple Watches.Compatible Apple Watches for watchOS 11
The watchOS 11 update requires users to have the iPhone XS or later with iOS 18 installed. The update will come preinstalled on the 2024 Apple Watch model, the Apple Watch Series 10, and will also work on the following older Apple Watch models:
Apple Watch SE (2nd generation)
Apple Watch Series 6
Apple Watch Series 7
Apple Watch Series 8
Apple Watch Series 9
Apple Watch Ultra
Apple Watch Ultra 2
Note that not all features are available on every single Apple Watch model.The revised Smart Stack
The Apple Watch Smart Stack tool was first introduced in watchOS 10 as a way to quickly display important information, such as the day’s weather, through widgets. With watchOS 11, Apple has improved Smart Stack by adding time and location elements to the screen through enhanced widgets and Live Activities.
For example, you may see weather widgets alerting you to an upcoming storm in your area or the latest score from your favorite sports team. The information on the Smart Stack changes throughout the day as time passes, your location changes, or you switch between activities.
The Smart Stack feature works with both native and third-party apps, and we anticipate it will become even more valuable over time as developers start to embrace it. To access this feature, simply turn the Digital Crown or use Double Tap on compatible watches. Smart Stack also includes links to frequently used apps such as Music, Workouts, and Messages.More customizable activity rings
One of the most significant drawbacks of using the activity rings on Apple Watch has been the inability to skip a day without losing a streak or making adjustments for a specific day.
