# watchOS 26: New Features and Compatibility
During the recent ‘Awe Dropping’ Apple Event, Apple revealed the forthcoming launch of watchOS 26, scheduled to be available on Monday, September 15th. This update offers a variety of new features aimed at improving the user experience on compatible Apple Watch models.
## What’s New in watchOS 26
The standout feature of watchOS 26 is the unveiling of the Liquid Glass design language, which revitalizes the appearance of the Control Center and Smart Stack, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing interface. The refreshed design is particularly impressive on watch faces that feature photos, enabling users to view more of their images.
### Key Features:
1. **Workout Buddy**: This feature functions as a personal trainer, delivering motivational messages tailored to your fitness history. It requires an Apple Intelligence compatible iPhone to operate.
2. **Wrist Flick**: Users can now eliminate notifications and calls with a swift flick of the wrist, simplifying the management of interruptions.
3. **Live Translation in Messages**: This capability enhances communication across language barriers, improving the messaging experience.
4. **Contextual Smart Actions**: Messages now feature smart actions informed by context. For example, if someone asks for your location, a Find My suggestion will be offered.
5. **Call Screening and Hold Assist**: These tools assist in better managing robocalls and customer service inquiries.
6. **Notes App**: For the first time, the Notes app will be accessible on the Apple Watch, enabling users to record thoughts and reminders while on the move.
7. **Siri Volume Adjustment**: Siri will automatically modify the volume of incoming calls and alerts according to surrounding noise levels, ensuring notifications are suitably loud.
## Compatibility
To install watchOS 26, users must have an Apple Watch Series 6 or newer, an Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), or any Apple Watch Ultra model. Furthermore, a compatible iPhone running iOS 26 is necessary, specifically an iPhone 11 or later, as the iPhone XS and XR are no longer compatible.
While all Apple Watch models that supported last year’s watchOS 11 will be compatible with watchOS 26, certain features may not be available on older models. Key functionalities such as wrist flick, live translation, automatic volume adjustment, and new smart actions in Messages will necessitate an Apple Watch Series 9, 10, or Ultra 2.
For additional details regarding the Apple Event and other announcements, including information on the new iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, visit the dedicated roundup.
### Conclusion
With the launch of watchOS 26, Apple continues to improve the capabilities and user experience of its smartwatches. The new features, particularly the Liquid Glass design and personalized fitness tools, are poised to make the Apple Watch an even more essential part of daily life for users.
