Apple on Monday seeded the release candidate version of watchOS 7.1 to developers. The release of the upcoming version of the watchOS software designed to run on the Apple Watch comes two weeks after Apple’s seeding of the fourth beta.
The watchOS 7.1 beta can be installed on an Apple Watch with the proper configuration profile installed, via the Watch app on the device’s attached iPhone. Go to “General” -> “Software Update” to install the new software. The Watch should have at least 50% battery life, be connected to a charger, and be in the range of the iPhone.
watchOS 7.1 is compatible with Apple Watch Series 3, Apple Watch Series 4, or Apple Watch Series 5 paired with iPhone 6s or later running iOS 14 or later.
The watchOS 7.1 update introduces new hearing health protections. The watch is able to send a notification when the music you’re listening to is too loud and could damage hearing. It also brings the ECG app to South Korea and Russia.
Apple’s full release notes are seen below:
watchOS 7.1 contains new features, improvements, and bug fixes.
– Adds the ability to be notified when your headphone audio level could impact your hearing
– Adds support for the ECG app on Apple Watch Series 4 or later in the Republic of Korea and Russia
– Adds support for irregular heart rhythm notifications in the Republic of Korea and Russia
– Resolves an issue that prevented some users from unlocking a Mac with Apple Watch
– Fixes an issue where the screen may be dark on wrist raise for some Apple Watch Series 6 owners.