Just two days after making the release candidate of watchOS 7.1 available, Apple has released the watchOS 7.1 software update that resolves several issues for Apple Watch users. The update fixes some performance issues and bugs, as well as bringing some new features. This latest release marks the first major update to the watchOS 7 operating system and, while the changes are not wholesale, it will be useful for certain Apple Watch users. It is available for the Apple Watch 3 and above and can be installed from the Apple Watch app on the iPhone.
Just after the launch of the Apple Watch 6 and the Apple Watch SE, watchOS 7 rolled out with a bunch of new features like automatic handwashing detection, sleep tracking, and new watch faces. While the watchOS 7.1 update is rather small in comparison, there are still notable improvements, new features, and bug fixes. The release also comes alongside the release of iOS 14.2 and iPadOS 14.2.
For starters, Apple's watchOS 7.1 update offers a new feature in the form of an alert that warns when audio levels are too high and could potentially impact hearing. It also resolves issues that prevented some users from unlocking a Mac with the Apple Watch. In addition, watchOS 7.1 fixes an issue that meant the screen could be dark on wrist raise for some Apple Watch 6 users. One other update with watchOS 7.1 is that the Apple Watch app icon has been updated and now shows the Solo Loop instead of the Sport Band that used to be featured.
Downloading The watchOS 7.1 Update
The watchOS 7.1 update is a big deal for users in Russia and South Korea and it will solve a couple of key issues. Most notably, the update adds support for the ECG app on the Apple Watch Series 4 or later in Russia and the Republic of Korea. The update also adds support for irregular rhythm notifications in the two aforementioned countries.
To download the update, make sure the Apple Watch is at least 50 percent charged, connected to power, and near the iPhone. Confirm that the iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi and tap on the Apple Watch app. Next, tap 'General', and then tap 'Software Update'. When the update is found, tap 'Download' and 'Install'. On a side note, Apple also released watchOS 6.2.9 and watchOS 5.3.9, which will update older Apple Watches.
Source: Apple