Photo credit: www.theverge.com
Apple Introduces New Alarm Feature in watchOS 11.4 Release Candidate
Today marks the arrival of Apple’s release candidate for watchOS 11.4, unveiling exciting new features that are set to enhance the functionality of the Apple Watch in the coming weeks. While this update includes several bug fixes, one of the most significant changes is the modification to the device’s Silent Mode, which will now allow alarms to break through silence.
Traditionally, when Silent Mode is engaged on the Apple Watch, alerts are conveyed solely through haptic feedback. This design prioritizes user privacy, minimizes distractions, and averts potential disruptions during meetings or quiet environments.
The release notes for watchOS 11.4 highlight the introduction of an option that enables Sleep Wake Up alarms to override Silent Mode. Users can now adjust individual alarms—such as those linked to the watch’s sleep settings for morning wake-ups—by selecting the new feature called “Break Through Silent Mode.” With this option activated, alarms will play both audible sounds and haptic vibrations at the designated time, providing a more effective wake-up signal. As noted in a report from 9to5Mac, this addition is a welcome improvement for many users.
While this development might initially appear to contradict the purpose of Silent Mode, it addresses a common issue faced by users who struggle to wake up from alarms that rely solely on haptic prompts. Even with the haptics set to the highest intensity, many find it challenging to reliably rouse themselves. As it stands, some users have opted not to use their Apple Watch for important alarms due to the limitations of Silent Mode; however, this new feature could change that perspective significantly.
Source
www.theverge.com