With the release of the watchOS 11 preview from Apple, we can look forward to new Apple Watch features to be released later this year. However, there is one feature of watchOS 11 that was announced at WWDC 2024 that was omitted from the actual keynote.

According to ICYMI, the biggest upgrades in watchOS 11 are Training Load, Pause Activity Rings, and the new Vitals app. These health features are meant to better inform users about what is going on with their bodies and allow them to adjust their routines accordingly. These are features we have long wanted, but they are not the only activity-based features included in watchOS 11.

Apple has also added iPhone features like Check In and the Translate app to the smartwatch. But also, some of the most popular existing apps have received an underrated refresh that every Apple Watch user should know about.

Here are five lesser-known features of watchOS 11, which will be officially released in the fall (probably along with Apple Watch 10).

Some workout types, such as running, walking, and cycling, already track distance traveled while the Apple Watch ring is closed, but this feature will be added to more workout types. When you start an activity such as soccer, American football, Australian football, outdoor field hockey, lacrosse, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, golf, or outdoor rowing, you will be able to monitor your distance the entire time.

According to Apple's watchOS 11 Newsroom post, distance tracking is enabled by "enhanced GPS positioning." It is not entirely clear why distance tracking was not previously available for at least some of these work types, but it is still a welcome addition.

Another new workout-related feature in watchOS 11 is "custom workouts." Custom Workouts is a feature that allows users to customize their workouts to meet their fitness goals, taking the mental burden off of what to do once an activity begins. Custom Workouts are already one of Apple Watch's best running features and best Apple Watch biking features for interval training, but now they are also available for pool swim workout types

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Users can customize interval-based workouts based on their work and recovery sets. Haptics will let you know when to move on to the next interval, so you don't have to guess and train while you are in the water.

As part of iOS 18, the Apple Maps app now supports topographic maps with detailed trail networks and hiking routes, including all 63 U.S. national parks. National park hiking routes are also available in the Maps app on the Apple Watch with watchOS 11. In addition, these routes can be accessed offline turn-by-turn, even without an iPhone at hand.

In addition, users can now create a walking route in Apple Maps on the iPhone and follow that route later using only the Apple Watch.

Also introduced as part of iOS 18, Tap to Cash joins the Apple Wallet app as a new way to exchange money quickly and conveniently. during WWDC, Apple demonstrated using two iPhone devices together, and through Apple Cash Most money exchanges can be done through Apple Cash. However, this feature is also set to work with Apple Watch devices that have the Wallet app configured.

Tap to Cash will work on all Apple Watch 7 and later models, the second-generation Apple Watch SE, and the Apple Watch Ultra. The new "Enhanced Ticketing" provides more information about digital tickets, including venue hours of operation. Additionally, live activity will be launched at the event, allowing users to see their seats and other important details at a glance at the top of their smart stack.