Apple Watch’s new sleep apnea feature, actionbutton upgrade, AirPods’ hearing aid function, and ringtone customization in watchOS 11

Key Points:

1. Sleep Apnea Detection: Apple Watch Series 10 uses advanced accelerometer tech to detect sleep apnea.
2. Action Button Improvements: watchOS 11 enhances Apple Watch Ultra’s Action button for easier task switching.
3. Hearing Aid on AirPods Pro 2: AirPods Pro 2 introduces hearing aid and protection features for better accessibility.

Apple has released new updates that bring exciting features to the Apple Watch and AirPods. The most notable include a sleep apnea detection tool for Apple Watch Series 10, watchOS 11’s improvements to the Action button on Apple Watch Ultra, and the new hearing aid capabilities of AirPods Pro 2.

Sleep Apnea Detection

With watchOS 11, the Apple Watch Series 10, Ultra 2, and Series 9 now include sleep apnea detection. This feature is powered by the watch’s built-in accelerometer, which tracks breathing disturbances during sleep. This accelerometer-based approach captures subtle body movements tied to breathing patterns. Unlike older models that used blood oxygen sensors, this method is now FDA-approved and more accessible.

Apple’s algorithm analyzes data from the accelerometer to detect breathing interruptions that may signal sleep apnea. Users receive a notification if these disturbances persist over 30 days, indicating a potential risk of moderate to severe sleep apnea. This feature is not meant for those already diagnosed but helps people gain more insight into their sleep quality through the Health app.

Enhanced Action Button on Apple Watch Ultra

In watchOS 11, the Action button on the Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2 has become more versatile. Before, it could launch workouts, flashlights, or custom Shortcuts with a single click, while long-pressing triggered emergency functions like the Siren or SOS.

The update adds more flexibility. A new feature between the click and long press allows users to access a menu of possible actions. This makes switching between tasks smoother without needing to pre-configure options, something iPhone users can appreciate but don’t have by default.

AirPods Pro 2 and Hearing Aid Features

Apple has taken a significant step forward with AirPods Pro 2, transforming them into over-the-counter hearing aids. With this new capability, AirPods Pro 2 now helps users with hearing difficulties. This, combined with hearing protection features, extends the usefulness of AirPods beyond just audio, creating a new category for accessibility.

Ringtone Customization in watchOS 11

For the first time, Apple Watch users can now change their default ringtone with watchOS 11. This update offers a range of new tones for both cellular and GPS models, allowing users to personalize their notification and call alerts. While it doesn’t yet support custom ringtones for individual contacts, this is still a welcome improvement for personalization.

Conclusion

Whether it’s improving sleep health, enhancing everyday use of the Action button, or offering better hearing support, Apple’s latest software updates for the Apple Watch and AirPods continue to make their devices more user-friendly and health-focused.