Apple today released watchOS 26, the newest version of the watchOS operating system that runs on the Apple Watch.watchOS 26 is compatible with the Apple Watch Series 6, all Apple Watch Ultra models, and the Apple Watch SE 2 and later.You'll also need an iPhone 11 or later with iOS 26.
watchOS 26 can be downloaded for free on an iPhone running iOS 26 by opening up the Apple Watch app and going to General > Software Update, or initiating an update in the Settings app on the watch.To install the new software, the Apple Watch needs to have at least 50 percent battery and it needs to be placed on a charger.watchOS 26 uses Apple's Liquid Glass design language that is also available across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.
It brings Hypertension alerts to the Series 9 and later and the Ultra 2 and later, plus it introduces a new Sleep Score feature that's designed to help you better understand your sleep quality.Workout Buddy provides a personalized workout experience that motivates you during exercise.There's also a new layout for the workout app and better integration with music.
The Smart Stack features configurable widgets, and the Control Center is more customizable so you can add third-party app controls.Notes is available on the Apple Watch, and Messages supports Live Translation.Apple added new watch faces, including Exactograph, Flow, and Waypoint (Ultra only), with new features also available for the Photos face.
There's also a new Wrist Flick gesture to dismiss notifications one-handed, and it works on the Series 9 and later and the Ultra 2 and later.Apple's release notes for watchOS 26 are below:
More information on all of the new features available in watchOS 26 can be found in our watchOS 26 roundup.
