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Apr 12, 2001
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Apple's upcoming watchOS 26 software update will support all Apple Watch models that are compatible with watchOS 11, according to a private account on X with a proven track record for upcoming software updates.

watchOS-26-Mock-Feature.jpg

If this rumor is accurate, and we believe it is, watchOS 26 will be compatible with the Apple Watch Series 6 and beyond:
  • 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
Rather than naming the next-generation version watchOS 12, Apple is going to call it watchOS 26, our source confirmed. All of the software updates coming this year will be numbered "26," reflecting the September 2025 to September 2026 release cycle.

The overhauled design that Apple is introducing for iOS 26 will also extend to the Apple Watch, though the changes to watchOS may not be as dramatic as the iOS 26 refresh. Apple will likely add new watch faces that are designed with the new style.

Apple's upcoming watchOS 26 update could also introduce support for third-party shortcuts in Control Center. For more details on what to expect for Apple Watch at WWDC next week, check out our roundup.

Article Link: watchOS 26 to Support These Apple Watch Models
 
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Hopefully this clears up some of the confusion, because after reading this year’s updates, I completely lost track of where we even are with products and software. Gone are the days where I was the guy in line waiting for the latest hardware. 🫩
 
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Since S6,S7,S8 all have the same processor they should all support the latest OS for a few more years.
 
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