During Apple’s WWDC keynote today in Cupertino, the company announced watchOS 26, the latest version of Apple Watch software. Instead of following a sequential numbering system, Apple has shifted to naming its OS versions by the upcoming year—so what would have been watchOS 12 is now watchOS 26.
“Apple Watch is an indispensable companion for millions of people around the world, and watchOS 26 uses intelligence to offer an even more personalized experience,” said David Clark, Apple’s senior director of watchOS Engineering. “From a gorgeous new design, to Workout Buddy with Apple Intelligence, personalized music suggestions in the Workout app, and more intelligence in the Smart Stack and Messages, we’re excited about the many ways watchOS 26 will support each user in staying active, healthy, connected, and safe throughout their day.”
Liquid Glass design
watchOS 26 features a major redesign called Liquid Glass, inspired by visionOS, the software behind Apple’s Vision Pro VR headset. This design brings translucency and dynamic light reflections, making menus and notifications appear to float on glass-like backgrounds. It’s the biggest visual overhaul since iOS 7, with UI elements fitting more naturally to the Apple Watch’s rounded corners.
Workout Buddy
One of the most significant additions is Workout Buddy, an AI-powered coach that verbally guides you through your workouts. Built on voices from Apple Fitness+ trainers, it provides encouragement and personalized feedback based on your workout and health history. Workout Buddy requires an Apple Intelligence-supported iPhone nearby and Bluetooth headphones connected to your watch.
Improved Smart Stack with predictive features
Apple Intelligence also improves the Smart Stack, which now predicts relevant apps based on your routine, location, and time. For example, it will automatically suggest your workout app when you arrive at the gym.
Redesigned Workout app
The Workout app has been redesigned with new buttons in each corner for easier workout customization. It can now automatically select Apple Music playlists based on your workout type and listening habits, enhancing the overall fitness experience.
AI-powered suggestions and Live Translation in Messages
Messages on watchOS 26 get smarter with AI-generated reply suggestions, making quick replies more useful, though initially only available in English. Live Translation will automatically translate incoming and outgoing messages to your preferred language, easing communication across languages.
New wrist flick gesture and watch faces
watchOS 26 introduces a wrist flick gesture to dismiss notifications and quickly return to the watch face. This gesture works on Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2. The update also includes a redesigned watch face gallery and a Photos face focused on featured content.
Compatibility and availability
watchOS 26 will be available to Apple Beta program users next month, with developers getting access immediately. The update supports Apple Watch Series 6 and later, Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), and both Apple Watch Ultra models. It requires an iPhone 11 or later running iOS 26, with Apple Intelligence features needing an iPhone 15 Pro or Max, or any iPhone 16.
