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Apple Releases watchOS 11.1

Apple today released watchOS 11.1, the first major update to the operating system that runs on the Apple Watch. watchOS 11.1 comes one month after Apple released watchOS 11. watchOS 11.1 is compatible with the Apple Watch Series 6 and later, all Apple Watch Ultra models, and the Apple Watch SE 2.

watchOS 11 Thumb 2 1
watchOS 11.1 can be downloaded on an iPhone running iOS 18.1 by opening up the Apple Watch app and going to General > Software Update. To install the new software, the Apple Watch needs to have at least 50 percent battery and it needs to be placed on a charger.

According to Apple's release notes, watchOS 11.1 adds improvements and bug fixes, including a fix for an issue with writing breathing disturbances data to HealthKit for some users.

More of the features available in watchOS 11 can be found in our watchOS 11 roundup.

Related Roundup: watchOS 26
Related Forum: Apple Watch

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Top Rated Comments

MacPoulet Avatar
21 months ago
Hopefully it improves battery life. Since upgrading to WatchOS 11, my battery is drained by the end of the day. WatchOS 10 would usually be about 40% left...
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)
21 months ago
Every time there is an Apple Watch update I am reminded of how long it takes to install an update. It's worse than my Homepods.
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Apple_Robert Avatar
21 months ago
I wish Apple allowed updating over cellular.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Radeon85 Avatar
21 months ago

I wish Apple allowed updating over cellular.
I wish Apple allowed updating without being forced to put it in on the charger. Many times since the very first watch, I've put it on the charger just to bypass the installation restriction and then taken it off. Updates just fine without mains power and barely use any battery anyway.

As long as the watch has 50% or more, then they should scrap this restriction on all watches, Ultra ones especially as its just not needed.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
tgwaste Avatar
21 months ago
Now make a deal with Masimo and give me back the BO sensor.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
21 months ago

Hopefully it improves battery life. Since upgrading to WatchOS 11, my battery is drained by the end of the day. WatchOS 10 would usually be about 40% left...
The last update (11.0.1) was supposed to address battery drain issues. I think mine has been mildly better, but my Series 7 battery is aging in general.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)