Apple Watch Gets Loud: Alarm Now Breaks Silence | Image Source: www.macrumors.com
Cupertino, California, March 31, 2025 – Apple has officially released ​watchOS 11.4, bringing with it a mixture of subtle refinements and remarkable features directed fourfold to the user’s utility ​and comfort. Although one day later than expected, this software update is finally available for Apple ​Watch Series 6 and later, all Apple Watch Ultra models and the ​second generation Apple Watch SE. But we will be clear, although ​it ​may seem like a routine update at first sight, watchOS 11.4 discreetly offers one of the most requested features that ​users have long been waiting for: alarms that break into silent mode.
According ​to MacRumors and Lifehacker, the release of watchOS 11.4 was staggered, one day after his brothers iOS ​18.4, iPadOS 18.4 and Sequoia 15.4 macOS. Apple did not explain the minor delay, but the update is officially available via the Watch app in iOS 18.4 powered iPhones. Users must ensure that their Apple ​Watch is charged at least 50% and placed on their charger to start the ​update.
What is the new feature of Alarm in watchOS ​11.4?
For years, Apple Watch users had to rely on the ​tactical engine – essentially a ​silent vibration – to wake them ​up. It was good for those who shared a bed or a room, but ​less than ideal for ​sleeping. The silence ​of the alarm often meant awakening and a lot of frustration. But with watchOS 11.4, Apple introduced a “Break Through Silent” mode to ​make the same sound when the clock is silent.
Why is it so important? Consider this: your iPhone has always let the ​alarms out independently ​of ​the silent way or not to disturb. Now, Apple Watch does the same thing: ​finally close a logical gap in Apple’s ecosystem. This ​is a small change with a significant daily impact. You no longer have to choose between peace and punctuality.
How to activate the alarm sound ​in silent mode?
Apple ​did not make this ​a global ​change, however. You ​will need to manually activate the function of each alarm. That’s how it is
- Open the Alarms app ​on your Apple Watch.
- Select the alarm you want to modify.
- Tap Edit Alarm, scroll down, and toggle on ​Break Through Silent Mode.
​
If you use the Sleep app for scheduled alarms, the path is slightly different:
- Go to the Sleep app.
- Scroll ​to your sleep schedule and choose the wake-up alarm.
- In Edit Schedule, find Sound & Haptics, and turn on Break Through ​Silent Mode.
This is an additional step for now, and many users ​expect Apple to soon introduce a system-wide default configuration. But ​even ​this manual option is a massive improvement for those who usually stand out because of alarms out.
Which ​Apple Watches Support ​showsOS ​11.4?
The update is only available for Apple Watch ​models capable of ​running watchOS 11.4. This includes:
- Apple Watch Series 6 and newer
- Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation)
- Apple Watch Ultra ​and Ultra 2
Those still using ​the 5 Series or ​the first generation of Apple Watch SE will not be able to install this update. In a subtle push towards hardware obsolescence, Apple continues to encourage users to update to access the latest features – another push towards new devices without saying too ​much.
What other features come with watchOS 11.4?
In addition to ​improving the alarm ​system, watchOS 11.4 offers some improvements to mention. One of the main features is ​the integration of matter compatible ​robot vacuum cleaners into the Home app. According to BGR, users can add these devices to their scenes, automatisms ​or simply send them to Siri, directly ​from the wrist.
For ​example, say ​”Hey Siri, clean the kitchen” ​will ask ​your compatible empty robot to get to work. This deepens Apple’s HomeKit ecosystem and highlights the company’s commitment to becoming a smart home management centre. And yes, now it even includes dirt under your dining table.
Did Apple set any errors in watchOS 11.4?
In fact, bug fixes are also part of this version. In particular, Apple addressed a problem in which the face selection screen of the watch might be unresponsible. This failure has been particularly annoying ​for users who have often changed between faces. Now, the selection process is smoother, allowing a faster transition and a better overall experience.
Another small but appreciated tweak? If you allow a specific ​change of parameters, you ​can ​now change ​between the faces of the watch without needing a long pressure. These are micro-improvements that make Apple Watch feel a more polished touch every day.
What about ​the new emojis?
Yeah, the emoji library just got a little more expressive. As TechRadar indicated, watchOS 11.4 includes the latest Unicode characters revealed in 2024. He hopes to find a particular but ​strangely linked face with bags in ​front of his eyes, a shovel, a tree without leaves, root vegetables, fingerprints and even a squadron. Emoji may seem trivial, ​but ​they are a crucial part of digital expression in today’s world. This update ensures that Apple Watch users do not stay behind in ​the great emoji evolution.
What is the user’s response so far?
The reaction ​of Apple Watch users was ​largely positive. ​The delay in booting has disconcerted some, especially because Apple usually aligns software updates to its platforms. But ​the inclusion of the Break Through Silent Mode function seems to have ​justified a ​short wait. For people who lost their alarms because their watch was off, it is more than ​a pleasant – a-have – is a daily savior.
A social media user summed it up with humour:
“It’s 2025 and I’m not afraid to sleep with my watch in silence. Thank you. Apple.”
Another practical advantage? Shared dormitories. For ​people ​who want ​the comfort of an audio alarm without throwing ​an iPhone into the ​room, it brings a ​little harmony in their morning. It is a reflection ​of technical and human behavior, a philosophy of conception that Apple has always tried to defend.
In the end, watchOS 11.4 is not striking. Do not introduce new interfaces or radical changes. But carefully tackle the little discomfort that is cut to the satisfaction of the user. This ​is what makes this update silently powerful: it brings peace of mind, a subtle beep at the same time.
