Apple Watch alarms just got a huge upgrade: How to enable the ‘Always Play on iPhone’ feature

Apple has once again impressed with iOS 26.4, introducing a small but valuable feature that resolves a common annoyance for iPhone users-specifically those who wear an Apple Watch to sleep.

The latest update allows users to play games on both their iPhone and Apple Watch simultaneously, even while wearing the watch to bed, as reported by Reuters. 

Previously, if an Apple Watch was worn during sleep, an alarm set on the iPhone would only produce haptic vibrations on the wrist rather than an audible sound. 

Many users found it difficult to rely solely on silent haptics, while useful in some situations- did not always prove effective for waking up.

The new “Always Play on iPhone” feature changes this behavior; when enabled, alarms will sound on both the iPhone and the Apple Watch, providing a more robust and dependable wake-up call. 

Currently, these settings are available for users with a sleep schedule and can be found in both the Clock app and Health app on the iPhone. 

As the feature is off by default, users must manually enable it. While it may seem like a minor adjustment, it addresses a long-standing limitation and underscores Apple’s focus on the small details that improve daily routines. 

In addition, time will tell how users respond to this update and how it shapes their overall experience.