Big Changes for Apple Watch: WatchOS 26 Update is Here
Smarter workouts, new gestures, real-time translations, and a Liquid Glass look arrive with Apple’s latest free WatchOS 26 update.
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Apple is rolling out WatchOS 26 with significant updates to design, artificial intelligence features, and core apps across its devices, all at no additional cost.
The updates, previewed at the company’s annual WWDC developer event, include sweeping interface redesigns and new smart functionalities that span across Apple Watch, iPhone, and iOS-linked services.
A standout feature is the new Liquid Glass design, described as the company's most comprehensive visual redesign. This cross-platform update gives Apple Watch interfaces a translucent, fluid look that adapts to surrounding content and light, enhancing the display of notifications, Smart Stack, and icons.
WatchOS 26 brings Apple Intelligence directly into the Fitness app. The AI-powered Workout Buddy provides tailored performance feedback based on historical fitness data, training intensity, and Activity Rings. It supports activities like running, cycling, strength training, and HIIT.
Users can also access advanced workout customization with new app controls for setting goals, route planning, and pace adjustments, while music and podcast integration offer seamless exercise support.
The Smart Stack now uses location and sensor data for real-time app suggestions. Notifications will also adjust volume based on environmental noise, ensuring alerts are less disruptive in quiet settings.
Live Translation, a new Apple Intelligence tool, allows real-time conversation translation on Apple Watch. Available in over 10 languages, it is supported on Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 models.
Messages are becoming more intuitive with Smart Replies powered by on-device language processing. The app will suggest contextual actions like Check-Ins or money transfers based on conversation cues.
Wrist Flick joins gesture controls, allowing users to dismiss notifications or silence calls by turning their wrist. Additional features include:
* Notes app support on Apple Watch
* Hold Assist and Call Screening synced with iPhone
* Live Listen for hearing assistance
* Customizable photo-based watch faces
WatchOS 26 is compatible with Apple Watch Series 6 and newer, including both generations of Ultra and SE (2nd gen). Some AI features require iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Max, or any iPhone 16 model.
Beta testing is available now for supported devices. Users can expect full release versions later this year following standard Apple software rollout timelines.
