watchOS 11.4 Released with Three Exciting New Features for Apple Watch [U: Back]

Update 4/1/25: watchOS 11.4 has been officially released to all users.

Update 3/31/25: Initially, Apple’s website noted the release of watchOS 11.4, but this information has now been removed. The timing of its return remains unclear.

Apple has rolled out watchOS 11.4 for Apple Watch users. Although it’s not a major update, it introduces several new features along with at least one significant bug fix. Here’s what’s new.

New Alarm Feature, Emoji, and More in watchOS 11.4

While Apple Watch updates may be less extensive than those for iOS and iPadOS, every new feature contributes to the user experience.

In watchOS 11.4, Apple introduces the following enhancements and fixes:

• Matter-compatible robot vacuums can now be integrated into the Home app and utilized in scenes or automations; just say, “Siri, clean the living room.”
• A new feature allows the Sleep Wake Up alarm to override Silent Mode.
• Seven additional emoji have been added to the emoji keyboard.
• A fix for an issue where face selection could become unresponsive when changing watch faces.

The support for Matter-compatible vacuum cleaners and new emoji are also part of Apple’s updates today, including iOS 18.4.

However, the Sleep Wake Up alarm option is a feature unique to watchOS.

I’ve detailed the functionality here; essentially, it enables you to keep your Apple Watch in Silent Mode while still receiving an audible alarm for the first time.

I frequently use my Watch in Silent Mode for haptic notifications only, so the ability to wake up to an audible alarm is a valuable addition.

Have you noticed any other changes in watchOS 11.4? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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