# watchOS 26: The Next Major Hardware Enhancement for Apple Watch
watchOS 26 represents a substantial leap forward for the Apple Watch, unveiling a host of features driven by Apple Intelligence. This update not only bolsters the device’s capabilities but also imposes specific hardware prerequisites for users to unlock these novel functionalities.
## Distinct AI Features on Apple Watch Each Have Specific Requirements
Apple Intelligence was first introduced on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, with the Vision Pro being the most recent addition. With the rollout of watchOS 26, Apple is extending these AI features to the Apple Watch, yet the hardware compatibility landscape is intricate. Various features demand different hardware, as some are powered by on-device models while others rely on large language models (LLMs) operating on an associated iPhone.
### Hardware Specifications for AI-Enhanced Features
Here is an overview of the hardware specifications required for the diverse AI features offered in watchOS 26:
#### Live Translation in Messages
– **Availability**: Necessitates Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Series 10, or Apple Watch Ultra 2, paired with an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone.
#### Smart Replies
– **Availability**: Accessible on Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2, without the necessity for a particular iPhone model.
#### Workout Buddy
– **Availability**: Usable on any Apple Watch with Bluetooth headphones, but requires an Apple Intelligence-compatible iPhone within proximity.
The prerequisites for these features highlight the diverse compatibility demands. For example, Live Translation requires both a recent Apple Watch model and an AI-compatible iPhone, while Smart Replies only necessitate a sufficiently updated Apple Watch. On the other hand, Workout Buddy is operable with any Apple Watch, as long as the paired iPhone offers AI support.
### Conclusion
As Apple progresses in incorporating AI functionalities into its devices, the launch of watchOS 26 marks an essential juncture for the Apple Watch. Users must assess their existing hardware to fully leverage these new features. Whether it’s the improved communication via Live Translation or the ease of Smart Replies and Workout Buddy, the update is set to greatly enhance the user experience.
What features in watchOS 26 catch your attention, and how crucial is Apple Intelligence support for your usage?
