List of Apple Watch models that support watchOS 26

The Apple Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), one of Apple's biggest annual technology events, has taken place. And as expected by iFans, there were a series of new hardware innovations and software updates introduced by Apple, including watchOS 26.

The Cupertino giant has unified the software experience across its platforms by introducing the "Liquid Glass" software design and renaming all operating systems to version 26.

So which Apple Watch models will support watchOS 26. Apple has shared the official list which includes:

1. Apple Watch Ultra 2
2. Apple Watch Ultra
3. Apple Watch Series 10
4. Apple Watch Series 9
5. Apple Watch Series 8
6. Apple Watch Series 7
7. Apple Watch Series 6
8. Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation)

The upcoming update to the Apple Watch brings a number of notable new features. The Liquid Glass design brings a fresh look to the user interface with an updated Control Center and semi-transparent buttons in apps. A new 'Workout Buddy' feature can use a nearby Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone to provide personalized voice encouragement during workouts.

Building on Double Tap, you can now flick your wrist to do things like silence incoming calls, turn off timers, and dismiss notifications when your hands are full. Available on Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 9 (or later).

watchOS 26 is available for testing now through the Apple Developer Program. The update will be available to the general public in the fall, when Apple is expected to refresh the Ultra and SE models. Note that your Apple Watch must be paired with an iPhone 11 (or later) or iPhone SE (2nd generation or later) running iOS 26.

While the list of Apple Watch models that support watchOS 26 remains the same, the operating system will not work with the iPhone Xs/Xs Max and iPhone Xr, which were previously supported on watchOS 11.

Products that are no longer supported and updated to a new version will face many problems related to compatibility, performance, and especially security. Therefore, you should consider upgrading to a newer product if necessary.

Marvin Fry

Update 11 June 2025