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Apple has rolled out watchOS 11.4, bringing some new enhancements to the Apple Watch, including Matter compatibility for robot vacuums and bug fixes. The standout feature? Alarms that can now audibly break through Silent Mode to wake you up without relying solely on haptic vibrations.
Silent Mode alarms
Previously, enabling Silent Mode on your Apple Watch meant all notifications, including alarms, were limited to vibrations. Some of those among us, you know who you are, can sleep through the Apple Watch’s haptics.
Read Mark’s full Apple Watch Series 10 review
With watchOS 11.4, Apple introduces the “Break Through Silent Mode” option. This allows alarms to sound even when Silent Mode is active, combining sound and haptic feedback to wake you up.
Enhanced Home app integration
watchOS 11.4 also brings increased Matter compatibility so that users can now control robot vacuums and mops with their Apple Watch. This can be voice-activated and is controlled through the Home app
Find out how to use sleep apnea detection on Apple Watch here!
Beyond this, watchOS 11.4 includes the usual security patches and bug fixes to maintain a smooth user experience. The update is compatible with the Apple Watch 6 and all later devices.
How to install watchOS 11.4
1. Charge your Apple Watch to above 50% and connect to a stable Wi-Fi
2. Open the Settings app on you Apple Watch (on the home screen)
3. Tap General then tap Software Update
4. Tap Install. If Install isn’t an option, then you are already up to date!
5. Follow the instructions on your Apple Watch
