Apple is set to announce iOS 26 and watchOS 26 at its WWDC event on Monday, June 9 and so far, we have covered iPhone models that will support the upcoming update. If you have an old Apple Watch, it is worth knowing if your wearable will support the upcoming watchOS 26 update. Apple has been very generous when it comes to offering software updates for older devices and this year, you will be surprised as well.
These Apple Watch models will be compatible with watchOS 26 later this year
Apple will be taking a different route this year, as it will be renaming its entire software line, switching from an order-based to a year-based naming scheme. This could be a positive move from the company's end as it will make the names less confusing for customers and developers. If you are not familiar, Apple was supposed to release watchOS 12 this year, and instead, it will be renamed to watchOS 26, much like iOS 26. However, the naming scheme will not have an impact on the features that are slated to be part of the update.
As mentioned, with every update, Apple removes a few devices from the compatibility list, but this year, watchOS 26 will be compatible with the Apple Watch Series 6 and newer models. A private account on X has shared details on the compatibility of the watchOS 26, which gives us an idea of which models will get the best from Apple (via MacRumors). This means that watchOS 26 will support all devices that are compatible with watchOS 11. You can check out the complete list below for more details.
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch Series 7
- Apple Watch Series 8
- Apple Watch Series 9
- Apple Watch Series 1
- Apple Watch Ultra
- Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation)
As for what you should expect, watchOS 26 will come with a significant visual overhaul following the rest of the software updates. Apple is aiming to unify the UI design language across the entire line of products, and the new visuals will be inspired by the visionOS elements. We have previously heard that the company will take into account the transparent and glass-like effects of the Vision Pro and port them to the Apple Watch and other devices. The company will also update the features of the Apple Watch to increase productivity and improve user experience. We will be covering the WWDC event in extensive detail, so do stick around for more in-depth details.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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