Apple has seeded the release candidate (RC) versions of watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 to developers, bringing its fall software cycle closer to completion. RC builds usually mirror the final version that ships to the public unless last-minute issues are discovered. This means Apple Watch, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro users are just days away from the official rollout, expected around September 15.
The simultaneous release highlights Apple’s strategy of aligning updates across its ecosystem. Developers now have the chance to test their apps one final time on each platform before the updates become available worldwide. Alongside these builds, iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe 26 are also approaching their final versions.
watchOS 26 continues Apple’s focus on health and everyday usability. It brings support for new hardware capabilities like blood pressure monitoring on Apple Watch Series 11, alongside software refinements aimed at making health tracking more comprehensive. The update also improves activity coaching, adds a new Vitals app for consolidating metrics, and integrates Apple Intelligence for contextual assistance directly on the wrist.
tvOS 26 enhances the Apple TV experience with refinements that improve streaming performance, system navigation, and multi-user support. While not as feature-heavy as other platforms, the update is designed to make Apple TV devices run more efficiently while offering smoother integration with other Apple services. Developers can also test updated APIs that improve the way apps deliver media content.
visionOS 26 represents one of the most significant updates since the launch of Apple Vision Pro. It introduces optimizations for immersive apps, better multitasking in mixed-reality environments, and tighter integration with Apple Intelligence. Developers have noted refinements in gesture responsiveness and improved tools for spatial app development, signaling Apple’s commitment to advancing its visionOS ecosystem.
All three RCs include stability improvements and bug fixes, ensuring smoother performance ahead of the general release. Developers can download them via the Apple Developer Center or through the software update tools on compatible devices. With this milestone, Apple is set to deliver one of its most synchronized platform updates to date, covering wearables, home entertainment, and spatial computing.
