watchOS 26 Supported Devices: The Full List of Compatible Apple Watches

Apple has officially released watchOS 26, its next major software update for the Apple Watch. The update, first previewed at WWDC in June, introduces a fresh "Liquid Glass" design and a new "Workout Buddy" feature powered by Apple Intelligence.

If you're wondering whether your Apple Watch will get these new features, we have the official compatibility list right here.

Apple Watches That Will Get watchOS 26

First, it's important to know that watchOS 26 requires an iPhone 11 or later, or an iPhone SE (2nd generation or later) running iOS 26 to be paired with your watch.


If you have a compatible iPhone, the following Apple Watch models will support the watchOS 26 update:
● 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 (2nd generation)
● Apple Watch SE (3rd generation)
● Apple Watch Ultra
● Apple Watch Ultra 2
● Apple Watch Ultra 3

Good News: No Models Dropped This Year

In a welcome move for users, Apple has not dropped support for any Apple Watch models this year. If your Watch was able to run last year's watchOS 11, it is also compatible with the new watchOS 26. Every model from the Series 6 and the second-generation SE onward is supported.

How to Check Your Watch and Prepare for the Update

Unsure which Apple Watch model you have? You can easily check from your iPhone:

1. Open the Watch app on your paired iPhone.
2. Make sure you are on the My Watch tab at the bottom left.
3. Tap General, then tap About. The model name will be listed at the top.


Before updating your Apple Watch, you must update your iPhone first. You can begin the update from the Watch app on your iPhone, but make sure your Apple Watch is charging on its puck and is close to your iPhone.

Key Features and Release Info

watchOS 26 introduces major new health features, including FDA-cleared hypertension notifications and a new sleep score to help track your rest. The update also brings Apple Intelligence to your workouts with 'Workout Buddy,' a feature that gives you personalized, spoken motivation.

Other key updates include Live Translation in Messages, the Notes app on your wrist, and a new wrist flick gesture to dismiss notifications. The redesigned 'Liquid Glass' look is rounded out with two new watch faces: Flow and Exactograph.

Like the updates for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, the most advanced Apple Intelligence features will require a newer iPhone for processing.

watchOS 26 is available now as a free software update.


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