Now that watchOS 26 has been formally unveiled, it’s advisable to read this article prior to upgrading your Apple Watch to the initial developer beta (or before you acquire the public beta next month). To put it succinctly, unlike other OS upgrades, Apple does not permit Apple Watch users to revert from a beta version to a stable one.
Therefore, if you encounter significant bugs on your Apple Watch with watchOS 26 beta 1, you will not have the option to revert to watchOS 18.5, as you could with iOS 26/iOS 18.5. Keeping this in mind, you should proceed with the first beta update only if you are a developer eager to explore the latest features to ready your app for a later launch in the fall.
Even when Apple makes a public beta available in July, we still wouldn’t advise downloading the watchOS 26 beta on your device for the same reasons. If you decide to install the beta regardless, here’s how you can obtain the update and its thrilling new features.
How to upgrade your Apple Watch to watchOS 26 beta
To upgrade your Apple Watch to watchOS 26 beta 1, you must first update your iPhone to iOS 26. Follow the instructions below to install the iOS 26 beta:
1. On your iPhone, launch the **Settings** app
2. Select **General** and then **Software Update**
3. Tap on **Beta Updates** and switch the iOS 18 Developer Beta to iOS 26 Developer Beta
After updating to iOS 26, follow these steps to get the watchOS 26 beta:
1. On your iPhone, launch the **Watch** app;
2. Select **General** and then **Software Update**
3. Tap on **Beta Updates** and switch the watchOS 18 Developer Beta to watchOS 26 Developer Beta
watchOS 26 features
Apple’s visionOS-inspired Liquid Glass design introduces new visual dynamics across all of Apple’s operating systems, including watchOS 26. Anticipate shimmering light reflections and refractions while interacting with menus and buttons on the Apple Watch.
Additionally, Apple has introduced a new Workout Buddy feature in watchOS 26. Powered by Apple Intelligence, it will utilize your Workout and Fitness history to provide tailored insights for your training sessions. This AI feature will analyze data in a private and secure manner.
To utilize Workout Buddy, you’ll need Bluetooth headphones connected to your device and an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence. It will cater to some of the most popular workout types, including Outdoor and Indoor Run, Outdoor and Indoor Walk, Outdoor Cycle, HIIT, and Functional and Traditional Strength Training.
