watchOS 26 to Launch with Major Redesign, But Only for These Apple Watch Models
Apple is preparing to unveil watchOS 26 alongside iOS 26 during its annual WWDC event on Monday, June 9. This year, Apple is making waves not only with new features but also with a fresh naming system that shifts from sequential numbers to year-based titles, aiming to make things clearer for users and developers alike.
Instead of the expected watchOS 12, Apple will leap to watchOS 26, aligning its smartwatch software naming convention with iOS. While the name is changing drastically, the compatibility rules are staying familiar-if not a bit exclusive.
According to reliable leaks shared via a private account on X (formerly Twitter) and reported by MacRumors, watchOS 26 will only be compatible with the Apple Watch Series 6 and newer. That includes the following models:
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch Series 7
- Apple Watch Series 8
- Apple Watch Series 9
- Apple Watch Ultra
- Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation)
Unfortunately, this means older models like the Series 4, Series 5, and the original SE (1st Gen) are no longer supported, as Apple narrows its focus on more recent hardware to support a more powerful and visually modern OS.
One of the most exciting aspects of watchOS 26 is its major visual overhaul. Apple is reportedly adopting design elements from visionOS, the operating system powering the Apple Vision Pro headset. Expect a sleeker UI with transparent and glass-like effects that give your Apple Watch a more futuristic and unified look, consistent across the Apple ecosystem.
On top of the visual polish, Apple is promising smarter productivity tools and an enhanced user experience, although specific features will be revealed during the keynote.
Stay tuned as we dive into all of Apple’s big announcements live from WWDC!