Apple has officially rolled out watchOS 26, its latest smartwatch software update, bringing a host of exciting new features to the Apple Watch lineup. From an all-new design aesthetic called Liquid Glass to an AI-powered fitness coach and long-awaited apps, this update makes the Apple Watch smarter and more useful than ever. Best of all, the upgrade is free for eligible models.
If you’re wondering whether your Apple Watch can handle the new software, here’s a breakdown of supported devices, standout features, and what you’ll need to install watchOS 26.
What’s New in watchOS 26?
Apple is pushing the Apple Watch further into the future with its latest operating system. Some of the headline features include:
- Liquid Glass UI: A fresh design aesthetic that makes animations and transitions feel smoother and more fluid.
- Workout Buddy: An AI-powered fitness coach designed to give you personalized training guidance.
- New Gesture Controls: Improved hand and wrist gestures for faster navigation without tapping the screen.
- Live Message Translations: Real-time translation support for global communication.
- Notes App Access: Finally, you can sync and use the Notes app directly on your Apple Watch.
- Smarter Notifications: More context-aware alerts that adapt to your activity and environment.
In addition, all eligible Apple Watch models now support daily sleep scores, making sleep tracking more comprehensive.
Which Apple Watch Models Support watchOS 26?
Apple generally supports devices for about five years or more, and watchOS 26 is no exception. The following models are eligible for the upgrade:
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch Series 7
- Apple Watch Series 8
- Apple Watch Series 9
- Apple Watch Series 10
- Apple Watch Series 11
- Apple Watch SE (2022)
- Apple Watch SE 3
- Apple Watch Ultra
- Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Apple Watch Ultra 3
If you own one of these models, you’ll be able to install the latest update.
How to Download and Install watchOS 26
Updating to watchOS 26 is simple, but there are a couple of requirements:
- First, update your iPhone to the latest iOS 26 software.
- Place your Apple Watch on its charger and ensure it has at least 50% battery.
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
- Go to General > Software Update.
- Tap Download and Install.
Your Apple Watch will restart once the update is complete.
Important Limitations
While watchOS 26 brings plenty of new features, not all of them are available across every model:
- Workout Buddy (AI coach) and Live Translations require pairing with an Apple Intelligence-compatible iPhone (currently the iPhone 15 Pro or newer).
- Hypertension detection is limited to the latest models, including Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, Series 11, Ultra 2, and Ultra 3.
- Older models still get major upgrades like sleep scores, Liquid Glass UI, and Notes app access.
Why You Should Update
Even if your Apple Watch doesn’t support every advanced feature, watchOS 26 delivers significant improvements in usability, design, and health tracking. From better sleep insights to AI-powered coaching (if you have a compatible iPhone), it’s worth updating to unlock the full potential of your device.
Apple continues to prove that the Apple Watch isn’t just a timepiece—it’s a health tracker, productivity tool, and personal assistant rolled into one.
