The arrival of watchOS 26 It represents a significant shift in the trajectory of the Apple Watch, offering its most profound overhaul in a decade. Apple unveiled it at WWDC 2025, detailing advancements, compatibility, and the release schedule. This new system not only improves the visual interface but also enhances its features to enrich the daily experience, both for new users and those who have relied on the device for years.
Among the most notable features are: smart technologies and advanced architectureThe integration of tools that use artificial intelligence and the adaptation of the watch to different daily situations reflect a commitment to comfort, accessibility and efficiencyThe update represents a step forward in the evolution of the watch's operating system.
The latest version and the reason for the jump in numbering
While making the transition to Watch 26, the current stable version is Watch 11.5, launched in May 2025. Apple has unified the numbering of its operating systems for iOS, macOS and others, so the number corresponds to the year in which they will have the greatest presence and updates, although their official arrival is scheduled for the end of 2025.
Release schedule and compatibility
The deployment of Watch 26 It began with developer betas in June and July, followed by a public beta that summer. General availability is expected in September, coinciding with the launch of the newest Apple Watch models.
As for compatibility, Apple maintains the same listing as in the previous version. Recent devices will be able to enjoy the improvements, including models coming in 2025, such as the Third-generation Apple Watch SE, Series 11 y Ultra 3, which will be released with watchOS 26 from the start.
Key changes in watchOS 26 for the Apple Watch
This update stands out for a comprehensive redesign based on the new Liquid Glass visual language, inspired by visionOS. Icons, widgets, menus, and apps take on a translucent appearance, giving the interface a modern and uniform style without losing the essence of the system.
It also highlights the technical improvement. The latest models (Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2) migrate from the arm64_32 architecture to arm64, resulting in Increased performance, compatibility, and capacity for complex applicationsPrevious models maintain compatibility thanks to adapted binaries, although recompiling is recommended to take full advantage of the platform.
Highlighted features and most relevant new features
- Automatic volume adjustment: The system intelligently adjusts the volume of notifications, alarms, calls, and Siri based on ambient noise levels, providing greater consideration in quiet environments and ensuring alerts are audible when needed. This feature is only available on newer models.
- Advanced gestures and wrist control: Interaction options are expanded with new gestures, such as the "Wrist Flick," which allows you to dismiss notifications, silence alarms, or return to the home screen without touching the device. It requires advanced sensors and machine learning in newer models.
- Apple Intelligence in Fitness: AI comes to the exercise app with the Workout Buddy assistant, which motivates users and displays visual statistics after each session. Recommendations and encouraging messages are especially aimed at those new to exercise.
- New Photo Sphere: A full-screen view of personal images is added, with the time always visible and an optimized layout to take advantage of the entire clock face.
How watchOS 26 affects upcoming watches and restrictions
The launch of Watch 26 coincides with the arrival of new models such as Series 11, SE 3 y Ultra 3In the case of the Ultra 3, Apple is betting on connectivity improvements (including satellite connectivity and 5G RedCap), new chips, faster charging, and a brighter OLED display, albeit with a less revolutionary hardware update than previous versions.
It is important to notice that Some features, such as automatic volume adjustment or advanced gestures, will only be available on newer models.Devices that aren't compatible won't be able to update to watchOS 26, as has been the case with previous versions, limiting the updates to certain devices.
This change to the Apple Watch operating system marks a breakthrough in design, technology, and interaction, facilitating more fluid, personalized, and socially conscious use, especially in relation to the environment and daily routine.
