A new software update for the Apple Watch is on the horizon. The Release Candidate of watchOS 11.4 has just launched, indicating a broader rollout to all users is imminent. Notably, it introduces a significant new alarm feature for those who wear their Apple Watch while sleeping.
Alarm functionality in Silent Mode has been enhanced
According to the Release Candidate notes for watchOS 11.4, there’s a noteworthy addition:
An option to enable the Sleep Wake Up alarm to sound even in Silent Mode
What does this mean for users?
This means your Apple Watch can now sound alarms even when Silent Mode is activated.
Having worn an Apple Watch for nearly ten years, I’ve primarily relied on it in Silent Mode.
The reason? I prefer not to have my Watch alerting me with sounds for every notification; the gentle haptic feedback is usually sufficient.
Previously, while in Silent Mode, alarms could only rouse you with haptic signals—no sound was possible unless Silent Mode was disabled.
With watchOS 11.4, this is set to change with the introduction of the new feature.
Now, when setting alarms (including those linked to your Sleep schedule), you’ll find a new option: Break Through Silent Mode.
Enable this feature, and your alarm will emit both sound and haptics while you sleep with your Apple Watch. Keep it disabled, and you’ll receive only haptic alerts as before when Silent Mode is active.
I appreciate that this toggle is available for each alarm individually, allowing users to customize which alarms can be more prominent than others.
Personally, a haptic-only alarm suits me well, ensuring I wake without disrupting my partner. However, I can understand that many users will appreciate having a more noticeable alarm option with sound.
Will this change in Apple Watch alarm functionality be something you utilize? Share your thoughts in the comments.
