Apple Launches watchOS 26 with Significant Updates
After months of extensive beta testing, Apple is set to unveil watchOS 26 for compatible Apple Watch models. This new operating system is rolling out in conjunction with iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26 Tahoe, and other platforms introduced during WWDC 2025, held in June.
Despite the dramatic leap from watchOS 11 to watchOS 26—a change made to synchronize Apple’s operating system versions with the current year—the update does not represent the most monumental release in Apple Watch history. This iteration brings several significant enhancements, including a fresh Liquid Glass design, enhanced sleep tracking features, various workout optimizations, and improvements to iMessage.
Key Features of watchOS 26
One of the standout health features introduced in watchOS 26 is the Sleep Score. This innovative metric assesses the quality of your sleep by taking into account its duration, timing, and any disturbances experienced throughout the night. In addition, the overhaul of workout functionalities includes a revamped user interface, complemented by the introduction of the Workout Buddy. This digital coach provides valuable insights and motivation to help users stay engaged during their exercise routines.
Visual Enhancements and User Experience
The new Liquid Glass interface imparts transparency and reflective qualities to buttons, surfaces, and icons, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the watch. However, for those eager for new watch faces, this update may fall short of expectations, as it offers only two new faces for standard models and an additional two for Apple Watch Ultra users.
Additional Updates and Functionality
Beyond major new features, watchOS 26 provides improvements to the Smart Stack functionality, delivering tailored actions based on user needs. Users will also find an upgraded iMessage experience with smart action suggestions, the ability to manage notifications, silence calls, and perform various tasks with a simple wrist flick. Additionally, the Apple Watch can now adjust notification volumes based on its environment, and users can create and manage notes through the new Notes app, now made available on watchOS.
Supported Devices for watchOS 26
The following Apple Watch models are compatible with the new watchOS 26:
| Apple Watch SE | Apple Watch Series | Apple Watch Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Watch SE 2Apple Watch SE 3 | Apple Watch Series 6Apple Watch Series 7Apple Watch Series 8Apple Watch Series 9Apple Watch Series 10Apple Watch Series 11 | Apple Watch UltraApple Watch Ultra 2Apple Watch Ultra 3 |
How to Update to watchOS 26
To update your Apple Watch to watchOS 26, you must first ensure that your iPhone is upgraded to iOS 26, which is now available for download. After completing the iPhone update, open the Watch app, navigate to General > Software Update, and follow the prompts. Alongside watchOS 26, Apple is also rolling out iPadOS 26, tvOS 26, visionOS 26, and macOS 26 Tahoe.
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