Apple’s latest watchOS 11.4 update includes a significant modification to Silent Mode on the Apple Watch, with users being able to hear alarms even if the watch is set to silent mode. The update, released now as a release candidate, besides bug fixes, also adds an option that purports to improve the alarm functionality on the Apple Watch.
Silent Mode Changes in watchOS 11.4
Today, when Silent Mode is turned on from the Apple Watch, all notifications, including alarms, are only presented in haptic vibrations and will not produce any sound from the watch. Although this functionality is a great feature to keep one’s privacy intact and minimize distractions during meetings or in quiet places, it can be less than ideal when waking up in the morning. Some users have complained about missed alarms since they sleep through the vibrations regardless of being set to the highest haptic feedback level, “Prominent.”
With watchOS 11.4, Apple is adding a new feature that permits the “Sleep Wake Up” alarm, as well as any specific alarms, to cut through Silent Mode. The functionality will guarantee sound and haptic vibration when the alarm fires, helping the user wake up or be reminded of critical notifications, even if the watch is in Silent Mode.
Enhancing Alarm Reliability
This is a much-needed change for numerous Apple Watch wearers who have had to struggle with using their alarms when Silent Mode is active. While silent vibrations are a great resource for having a quiet experience, they do not always successfully wake users up in every situation. The feature to allow alarms to cut through Silent Mode solves a frustrating problem, enabling users to enjoy the advantages of Silent Mode without compromising the integrity of their alarms.
Future Updates
The feature will be part of watchOS 11.4’s final release in the weeks ahead, bringing a simple but effective enhancement to the Apple Watch experience. Those who have struggled with alarm misses historically will be able to more easily trust their Apple Watch to wake them up, all while being able to keep their room quiet and private.
