The latest watchOS 11.4 update for Apple Watch introduces several new features and fixes that enhance the smartwatch experience. This update focuses on improving smart home integration, alarm functionality, and overall system stability.
Smart Home Integration with Matter Support
watchOS 11.4 brings a significant upgrade to the Apple Watch’s smart home capabilities by adding support for Matter-compatible robot vacuum cleaners. This integration allows users to control their compatible robotic vacuums directly from their wrist.
Key features:
- Add robot vacuums to the Home app on Apple Watch
- Include vacuums in smart home scenes and automations
- Use Siri voice commands to start cleaning (e.g., “Siri, clean the living room”)
This addition streamlines home automation tasks and makes it easier for users to manage their smart cleaning devices without reaching for their phones.
Improved Alarm Functionality
The update addresses a common user complaint by introducing a new option for alarms to break through Silent Mode. This feature is particularly useful for those who rely on their Apple Watch as an alarm clock but have experienced issues with silent alarms.
How to enable:
- Open the Sleep app on your Apple Watch
- Tap on “Full Schedule & Options”
- Scroll down and select “Sound & Haptics”
- Toggle on “Break Through Silent Mode”
Alternatively, you can enable this feature for individual alarms:
- Open the Alarms app on your Apple Watch
- Tap on an existing alarm or create a new one
- Scroll down and toggle on “Break Through Silent Mode”
With this setting enabled, your alarm will play sound and provide haptic feedback even when your watch is in Silent Mode, reducing the likelihood of oversleeping.
Watch Face Switching Fix
Apple has addressed an issue where face selection could become unresponsive when switching between watch faces. This fix improves the overall user experience and ensures smoother transitions between different watch face designs.
To take advantage of this fix:
- Ensure your Apple Watch is updated to watchOS 11.4
- Try switching between watch faces by swiping left or right on the watch face
- If you experience any issues, restart your Apple Watch and try again
How to Update Your Apple Watch
To install watchOS 11.4 on your Apple Watch:
Method 1: Directly on Apple Watch
- Ensure your watch is connected to Wi-Fi
- Open the Settings app on your Apple Watch
- Tap “General” > “Software Update”
- If an update is available, tap “Download and Install”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update
Method 2: Using iPhone
- Open the Watch app on your paired iPhone
- Tap the “My Watch” tab
- Go to “General” > “Software Update”
- If an update is available, tap “Download and Install”
- Keep your Apple Watch and iPhone close together during the update process
Remember to keep your Apple Watch charged and connected to its charger throughout the update process to prevent any interruptions.
This update brings welcome improvements to the Apple Watch ecosystem, particularly for smart home enthusiasts and heavy alarm users. By integrating Matter-compatible devices and addressing user-reported issues, Apple continues to refine the watchOS experience.