Apple has rolled out watchOS 11.5, a maintenance update aimed at enhancing system stability and optimizing performance. While the release does not introduce any groundbreaking new features, such updates play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of existing functionalities.
Background on Recent watchOS Updates
The previous version, watchOS 11.4, introduced a notable change to alarm functionality with the “Break Through Silent Mode” option. This feature allows alarms to override Silent Mode settings, ensuring users relying on their Apple Watch for wake-up alerts will hear audible alarms even if the device is muted. Previously, alarms in Silent Mode would only trigger haptic feedback.
watchOS 11, launched in September 2024, brought significant upgrades, including customizable Activity Rings, advanced health insights via the Vitals app, and the Training Load tool for athletes. The latest 11.5 update builds upon these features with behind-the-scenes optimizations.
How to Install watchOS 11.5
Users can update their Apple Watch directly or through their paired iPhone.
Updating via Apple Watch
- Ensure the device has at least 50% battery and is connected to Wi-Fi.
- Open the Settings app.
- Navigate to General > Software Update.
- Select Install if the update is available and follow the prompts.
Updating via iPhone
- Confirm the watch is charged and connected to Wi-Fi.
- Open the Apple Watch app on the iPhone.
- Go to General > Software Update.
- Download and install the update as directed.
Apple typically recommends installing updates as soon as possible to benefit from the latest security patches and performance enhancements.
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