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

At its WWDC keynote, Apple unveiled watchOS 26, the next major software update for the Apple Watch. The update 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 details right here—and the news is good.

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 SE (2nd generation)
● Apple Watch Series 6
● Apple Watch Series 7
● Apple Watch Series 8
● Apple Watch Series 9
● Apple Watch Series 10
● Apple Watch Ultra
● Apple Watch Ultra 2

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. Once the final software is released, ensure your Apple Watch is charging on its puck and is close to your iPhone, then begin the update from the Watch app on your iPhone.

Key Features and Release Info

The headline feature for watchOS 26 is Workout Buddy, which uses Apple Intelligence to give you personalized, spoken motivation during workouts. The update also brings the Notes app to the wrist, a new wrist flick gesture to dismiss notifications, and a redesigned look across the system.

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

watchOS 26 will be available this fall as a free software update. A public beta version will likely be released for testing in July.

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