According to 9to5 mac Apple has consistently improved the Apple Watch experience with every watchOS update, and watchOS 11.4 is no exception. This latest update introduces a much-needed alarm feature that users have been requesting for years. If you rely on your Apple Watch for daily routines, this new addition will make waking up and setting reminders more convenient than ever.
What’s New in watchOS 11.4?
With watchOS 11.4, Apple Watch now supports a more advanced alarm system, allowing users to set alarms with enhanced customization options. Whether you use your watch for tracking sleep, fitness, or daily tasks, the new alarm feature ensures you stay on schedule without needing to rely on your iPhone.
Key improvements include:
- Customizable Alarm Tones – Choose from a variety of sounds to wake up to.
- Vibration-Only Mode – A silent alarm option that gently wakes you up without disturbing others.
- Multiple Alarms – Set and manage multiple alarms for different needs, whether for workouts, meetings, or reminders.
- Snooze & Smart Wake – A more intelligent snooze function that adapts to your sleep cycle.
- Sync with Sleep Tracking – The alarm works seamlessly with Apple’s sleep tracking to optimize wake-up times.
- Quick Access from Control Center – Easily manage alarms with a single swipe.
Watch alarms can now play sound and haptics in Silent Mode
watchOS 11.4’s Release Candidate notes mention the following feature:
An option to allow Sleep Wake Up alarm to break through Silent Mode
What does this mean in practice?
It means you can now have your Apple Watch alarm make noise even if Silent Mode is turned on.
Why This Feature Matters
Many Apple Watch users have long wished for an improved alarm system that offers flexibility and ease of use. Previously, users had to rely on their iPhones or third-party apps for advanced alarm functionalities. With watchOS 11.4, Apple has finally addressed this gap, making the Apple Watch an even more reliable companion.
The Vibration-Only Mode is particularly useful for individuals who share a room with others, ensuring a silent but effective wake-up. Similarly, the Smart Wake feature helps prevent grogginess by waking users at the lightest sleep phase within a set timeframe. These refinements make the Apple Watch a more integral part of daily life.
How to Use the New Alarm Feature in watchOS 11.4
Setting up the new alarm on your Apple Watch is simple:
- Open the Alarms app on your Apple Watch.
- Tap Add Alarm and set your preferred time.
- Choose a sound or select Vibration-Only Mode if you prefer a silent alarm.
- Enable Snooze or customize settings according to your needs.
- Sync with Sleep Tracking if desired.
- Save the alarm, and you’re all set!
You can also manage alarms directly from the Control Center, making it quicker to activate or deactivate alarms on the go.
Who Will Benefit the Most?
The new alarm feature in watchOS 11.4 is designed for a variety of users:
- Sleep Trackers – Those who use Apple Watch for sleep monitoring will benefit from the Smart Wake and sync features.
- Fitness Enthusiasts – Custom alarms help in scheduling workouts efficiently.
- Professionals & Students – Set multiple alarms for meetings, classes, and important reminders.
- Hearing Impaired Users – The strong haptic feedback in Vibration-Only Mode offers a reliable wake-up alternative.
Final Thoughts
The new alarm feature in watchOS 11.4 makes the Apple Watch even more user-friendly and functional. Whether you need a gentle wake-up call or multiple reminders throughout the day, this update provides greater control over your schedule.
Apple continues to refine the smartwatch experience, and this long-awaited alarm update is proof of the company’s dedication to improving usability. If you haven’t updated to watchOS 11.4 yet, now is the perfect time to explore this highly requested feature.
Have you tried the new alarm feature in watchOS 11.4? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!