Now, with the upcoming iOS 18.2 and watchOS 11.2 updates, Apple is taking its fitness tracking features to the next level by introducing “All Rings Closed” activity awards, which recognize long-term dedication to closing all three Activity rings: Move, Exercise, and Stand/Roll.
This new feature not only celebrates significant milestones in users’ fitness journeys but also highlights Apple’s continued commitment to fostering healthier lifestyles through its products. Let’s take a closer look at what these awards are, how they work, and what they mean for Apple Watch users.
What Are the “All Rings Closed” Awards?
The new “All Rings Closed” awards are a series of achievements designed to honor users who consistently close all three Activity rings on their Apple Watch. For those unfamiliar, the Activity rings are central to the Apple Watch’s fitness tracking:
- Move Ring: Tracks the number of active calories burned throughout the day.
- Exercise Ring: Monitors minutes of vigorous activity.
- Stand/Roll Ring: Encourages users to stand or roll for at least one minute during 12 different hours of the day.
To close all three rings on any given day, users need to meet their calorie-burning goal, achieve at least 30 minutes of exercise, and maintain regular movement throughout the day. It’s a task that requires consistent effort and dedication.
With the new awards, Apple is rewarding users for hitting these goals over extended periods. The milestones include:
- 100 days
- 365 days (one year)
- 500 days
- 1,000 days
- Every 250-day interval beyond 1,000 days
For instance, one user recently showcased a 3,250-day award, reflecting an incredible level of commitment since the Apple Watch’s launch. For those who’ve maintained a perfect streak since 2015, the highly anticipated 3,500-day award is just around the corner.
How Do These Awards Work?
Apple’s Fitness app on the iPhone is the hub for all activity-related achievements, and the “All Rings Closed” awards will be no exception. Users can view these awards in the Awards section of the app, complete with the date they achieved each milestone.
One key feature of these awards is their retroactive application. Apple will automatically calculate past milestones for users based on their Activity ring history, meaning long-time Apple Watch users won’t have to start from scratch. If you’ve already closed your rings for 365 days, for example, you’ll see that award appear in your Fitness app as soon as the feature goes live.
This retroactive approach ensures that users are rewarded for their consistency, even if they weren’t explicitly working toward these awards in the past. It’s a thoughtful way for Apple to recognize the dedication of its most committed users.
The Significance of These Awards
The “All Rings Closed” awards go beyond simple recognition—they represent Apple’s understanding of the importance of consistency in fitness. While many fitness trackers focus on short-term goals, Apple is emphasizing the long-term benefits of sustained activity.
Motivating Long-Term Fitness
By celebrating milestones like 1,000 or 3,250 days, these awards provide a tangible incentive for users to stay active every day. For many, the satisfaction of achieving a streak or earning an award can be a powerful motivator to prioritize their health, even on busy or challenging days.
Building Healthy Habits
Closing all three rings requires users to adopt healthy habits, such as regular movement, daily exercise, and mindful calorie burning. Over time, these habits can lead to improved physical and mental health, better energy levels, and even a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
Recognizing Dedication
The introduction of these awards also acknowledges the effort and discipline required to maintain a streak over years. Achieving a 3,250-day streak, for example, means closing all three rings every single day for nearly nine years—a feat that demonstrates incredible commitment to personal fitness.
The Evolution of Apple Watch Fitness Features
The introduction of the “All Rings Closed” awards is the latest step in the evolution of the Apple Watch as a fitness device. Since its inception, the Apple Watch has consistently added features to encourage activity and promote healthier lifestyles.
Activity Rings: A Revolutionary Concept
When the Apple Watch debuted, the Activity rings were a groundbreaking feature that gamified fitness tracking. The visual simplicity of the rings, combined with the challenge of closing them each day, made it easy for users to set and achieve their fitness goals.
Achievements and Challenges
Over the years, Apple has introduced various badges and challenges to keep users engaged. From monthly activity goals to special event challenges, these features have helped maintain interest and motivation.
Advanced Tracking Capabilities
With each new generation of the Apple Watch, Apple has added more advanced tracking capabilities, such as heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen measurements, and fall detection. These features, combined with the Activity rings, make the Apple Watch a comprehensive tool for health and fitness.
A Focus on Inclusivity
Apple has also made efforts to ensure that its fitness features are inclusive. For example, the Stand ring can be customized as a Roll ring for wheelchair users, demonstrating Apple’s commitment to making fitness accessible to everyone.
Preparing for the Update
The “All Rings Closed” awards will be part of the iOS 18.2 and watchOS 11.2 updates, which are currently in beta testing. These updates are expected to be released to the public in early December.
For Apple Watch users eager to see their awards, here are a few steps to prepare:
- Ensure You’re on the Latest Software
- Check that your iPhone and Apple Watch are updated to the latest versions of iOS and watchOS once the updates are available.
- Review Your Activity History
- Open the Fitness app on your iPhone and review your Activity ring history to get an idea of which milestones you’ve already achieved.
- Set Goals for the Future
- If you’re close to a milestone, use this as motivation to keep closing your rings daily. Consistency is key to unlocking these awards.
What This Means for Apple’s Ecosystem
The “All Rings Closed” awards highlight Apple’s broader strategy of creating a seamless ecosystem where hardware, software, and services work together to enhance users’ lives. By integrating these awards into the Fitness app, Apple is encouraging users to stay engaged with their devices and fostering long-term loyalty.
This feature also aligns with Apple’s commitment to health and wellness, which has become a central focus of its product lineup. From the Apple Watch’s fitness tracking features to the introduction of HealthKit and ResearchKit, Apple is positioning itself as a leader in the health tech space.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Fitness on Apple Watch
The introduction of the “All Rings Closed” awards is just one of many ways Apple continues to innovate in the fitness space. As technology evolves, we can expect even more advanced features that make it easier—and more enjoyable—for users to stay active and healthy.
Potential Enhancements
Future updates could include more personalized fitness goals, advanced metrics for tracking progress, and new ways to celebrate achievements. For example, Apple might introduce additional rewards for reaching significant milestones or provide insights into how consistent activity impacts overall health.
Integration with Other Apple Devices
As Apple expands its ecosystem, there’s potential for even greater integration between the Apple Watch and other devices, such as the iPhone, iPad, and Vision Pro. This interconnected approach could create new opportunities for fitness tracking and motivation.
“All Rings Closed” Awards
The “All Rings Closed” awards represent a significant step forward in how Apple recognizes and motivates long-term fitness. By celebrating consistency and dedication, these awards reinforce the importance of daily activity and healthy habits.
For Apple Watch users, the upcoming iOS 18.2 and watchOS 11.2 updates are more than just software releases—they’re an opportunity to celebrate their fitness journeys and set new goals for the future. Whether you’re just starting your streak or nearing a milestone like 1,000 or 3,500 days, these awards are a testament to the power of persistence and the joy of achieving your goals.
