# watchOS 11 Review: A Softer Take on Fitness and Health
The **watchOS 11** update from Apple has arrived, introducing numerous enhancements and features for the Apple Watch. Following a considerable redesign in **watchOS 10**, Apple has aimed to fine-tune the user experience in this new edition, especially concerning health, fitness, and personalization. This review highlights the prominent features, enhancements, and overall user experience of **watchOS 11**.
## Smart Stack Dominates Watch Faces
A key highlight of **watchOS 11** is the **Smart Stack**, which debuted in **watchOS 10**. Initially, Smart Stack let users access widgets by rotating the Digital Crown, providing information such as timers, calendar events, and music controls. In **watchOS 11**, Smart Stack has been substantially enhanced.
Now, the **Smart Stack** integrates **iPhone’s Live Activities**, utilizing machine learning to suggest widgets based on your daily habits, time, location, and more. For instance, if you find yourself at a bar, the **Shazam** widget might surface, or if you’re awaiting a **DoorDash** delivery, its Live Activity will show up in the stack.
In some situations, Smart Stack can even replace your Watch Face, presenting more pertinent information than traditional Watch Faces. This feature transforms the experience for users who seek immediate access to relevant information without sifting through various apps.
## Wellbeing at the Forefront
**watchOS 11** rolls out two significant features designed to enhance users’ overall wellbeing: the **Vitals app** and **Training Load**.
### Vitals App
The **Vitals app** is a fresh addition that offers users a quick snapshot of essential health metrics, including heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, and more. This app aids users in gaining better insight into their health and determining whether they are within a normal range or pushing their limits during workouts.
If two or more metrics fall outside their typical range, the app will alert users and provide insights into possible connections to other life factors, like alcohol intake, illness, or changes in elevation.
### Training Load
The **Training Load** feature assesses how the intensity and duration of workouts influence your body over time. It contrasts your activity from the past seven days with the preceding 28 days, helping you understand your body’s response to training. This feature is especially beneficial for individuals training for events such as marathons or cycling competitions.
Although these features are useful, they may feel somewhat intricate for the average user. For a simpler user experience, applications like **Gentler Streak** offer more straightforward insights into how workouts and sleep impact your wellbeing.
## Activity Rings: A Much-Awaited Redesign
Among the most eagerly awaited changes in **watchOS 11** is the ability to **tailor Activity Rings**. For years, Apple Watch users have requested greater flexibility in tracking their fitness, and Apple has finally responded.
With **watchOS 11**, users can now adjust their **Activity Ring goals** according to the day of the week. For instance, you can establish distinct goals for leg day versus running days. Additionally, the **Fitness app** enables users to personalize the Summary tab, displaying only the metrics they value, including those of their friends.
This update also brings the notion of **planned rest days**, injuries, or days off, which won’t negatively impact your award streaks. This change is a relief for those who have felt the need to close their rings daily, irrespective of their circumstances.
## Additional Enhancements in watchOS 11
In addition to the major updates, **watchOS 11** introduces various smaller yet practical features:
– **Revamped Photos Watch Faces**: Apple has improved the Photos Watch Face, using machine learning to suggest images based on aspects like aesthetics, composition, and facial expressions.
– **Check-In Option**: Debuted in **iOS 17**, this option allows users to set a check-in post-workout, informing friends or family when they’re returning home.
– **Translate App**: The **Translate app** is now available on Apple Watch, supporting 20 languages, proving indispensable for travelers or anyone needing quick translations.
– **Double Tap Gesture**: Users can now utilize this gesture to navigate through apps, enhancing one-handed interaction with the watch.
– **Nap Detection**: The Apple Watch can now recognize naps even if Sleep Mode isn’t activated.
– **Summarized Notifications**: Driven by **Apple Intelligence**, notifications from the **iPhone 15 Pro** and **iPhone 15 Pro Max** can be relayed to the Apple Watch.
## Device Compatibility
**watchOS 11** ceases support for some
