Excitement has been building since the announcement of Apple’s watchOS 11 update at WWDC 2024 in June. Initially perceived as a minor update, watchOS 11 has proven to be more substantial and impactful than anticipated.
Among the prominent features are the ability to pause activity goals and the introduction of Apple’s new Vitals app. However, the update also brings a host of smaller yet significant enhancements that shouldn’t be overlooked.
In a recent conversation with Eric Charles, senior manager of watchOS product marketing, and Lori Hylan-Cho, senior engineering manager for watchOS, I gained insights into these lesser-known aspects of watchOS 11. These features may not be in the spotlight, but they have the potential to significantly enhance the daily usage of your Apple Watch.
Enhancements to Double Tap
One significant change in watchOS 11 is the enhancement of the Double Tap feature, which now enables scrolling through all apps using the gesture. According to Charles, this enhancement will provide a more convenient user experience for navigating apps with scrolling or tab views.
Furthermore, developers can now harness Apple’s new API for Double Tap to customize the gesture within their apps, potentially unlocking its full capabilities. This means that favorite apps will gradually incorporate Double Tap support, offering users new interactive possibilities.
Smart Stack and Live Activities
watchOS 11 introduces significant improvements to Smart Stack, enhancing its ability to display relevant widgets based on various factors such as location and time. With the new Smart Stack API, developers can optimize widget relevance, offering a more personalized user experience.
Additionally, interactive elements have been added to widgets in watchOS 11, allowing developers to create widgets with up to three actionable buttons. Live Activities from the iPhone will seamlessly transition to the Apple Watch’s Smart Stack, providing real-time updates and information to users.
Health and Fitness Innovations
watchOS 11 introduces exciting new APIs for health and fitness applications, including enhancements to custom workouts for swimming and greater control over workout screens. These updates provide more customization options and tailored experiences for users, highlighting Apple’s commitment to health and wellness.
Embracing Small Changes
The incremental yet impactful changes in watchOS 11, highlighted during the conversation with Charles and Hylan-Cho, underscore the continuous evolution of the Apple Watch. While not a revolutionary overhaul, the updates in watchOS 11 offer significant utility and potential for surprise and delight moments.
Whether it’s the improved Double Tap functionality, enhanced Smart Stack capabilities, or the advancements in health and fitness APIs, watchOS 11 aims to enhance the Apple Watch experience for users across various domains.
The watchOS 11 public beta is currently available, with the update slated for wider release in the upcoming fall season.
