The update is available for all Apple Watch devices

Oct 31, 2017 18:30 GMT  ·  By

Today's iOS 11.1 and macOS High Sierra 10.13.1 software updates come along with a new stable software version of the watchOS operating system for Apple Watch devices, watchOS 4.1.

Last week, we reported on the new features that Apple implemented in watchOS 4.1, such as Apple Music streaming support for the recently unveiled Apple Watch Series 3 smartwatch with LTE. Music streaming is also supported with your iCloud Music Library if you don't yet have an Apple Music subscription.

Also new in the watchOS 4.1 software update for Apple Watch devices is an all-new Radio app that lets you listen to live radio on Beats 1, ESPN, and NPR, radio stations curated by experts, as well as custom radio stations. The new Radio app is installed by default and will be accessible from the app drawer.

Use Siri to discover and play music on your Apple Watch

In addition to the LTE music streaming services and the new Radio app, watchOS 4.1 introduces the ability to find, discover and play songs, playlists or entire music albums with the help of the Siri personal intelligent assistant. And, it improves the Heart Rate monitor for Apple Watch Series 1 or later devices.

Another interesting feature of the watchOS 4.1 software update is the ability to sync fitness data with GymKit-capable treadmills, ellipticals, indoor bikes, and stair steppers. It also re-enables support for Stand Reminders and addresses that nasty WPA2 KRACK (Key Reinstallation Attack) security vulnerability.

Support for Mandarin as default dictation language for Chinese users has been restored in wathcOS 4.1, which now lets Apple Watch owners to disconnect from Wi-Fi networks if they own an Apple Watch Series 3 device with GPS and Cellular. Other than that, the update should improve charging for 1st generation Apple Watch.