This autumn, watchOS 26 is set to launch as the forthcoming significant software update for Apple Watch. After utilizing the beta on my Apple Watch for over a month, here are the new watchOS 26 functionalities that I’ve found most beneficial.
## #1: Wrist Flick
Upon the release of the Apple Watch Series 9, it introduced a new double tap gesture that I was initially thrilled about but ended up using infrequently.
I was concerned that the wrist flick gesture in watchOS 26 might follow a similar pattern. However, I’ve discovered that wrist flick is a far more dependable and intuitive addition.
Here’s the process:
When a user lifts their wrist to view a notification but isn’t prepared to engage, they can swiftly turn their wrist over and back to eliminate the notification. The wrist flick gesture can dismiss notifications and incoming calls, mute timers and alarms, and return to the watch face.
Wrist flick is limited to three Apple Watch models: Apple Watch Series 10, Series 9, and Apple Watch Ultra 2.
But for those with compatible hardware, wrist flick represents a fantastic new method to navigate watchOS 26 with one hand.
## #2: Workout Buddy
watchOS 26 features a redesign of the Workout app, but there’s also a significant AI enhancement: Workout Buddy.
Workout Buddy is an AI-driven feature that delivers “personalized, motivational insights” throughout a workout.
Here are the specifics:
To provide timely inspiration, Workout Buddy evaluates data from a user’s ongoing workout along with their fitness history, utilizing information such as heart rate, pace, distance, Activity rings, personal fitness achievements, and more. A new text-to-speech model then converts insights into a dynamic generative voice crafted using voice data from Fitness+ trainers, ensuring it possesses the right energy, style, and tone for your workout. Workout Buddy processes this information privately and securely with Apple Intelligence.
While I don’t always appreciate Workout Buddy interrupting my audiobook, podcast, or music, I must admit that I’ve come to appreciate its insights and encouragement.
For instance, last week I avoided what would typically be a workout day, and this week Workout Buddy reminded me that my 28-day training load is decreasing. Some users might perceive this as shaming, but it has motivated me to stay on course.
## #3: Smart Replies
The Apple Watch has always been intended for micro-interactions, as anything requiring more than a few moments is better suited for the iPhone.
For instance, I’ve consistently regarded Messages as one of the Watch’s essential apps, yet I’ve often found myself reaching for my iPhone to formulate replies. In watchOS 26, this trend has begun to shift.
With the enhancement of Smart Replies, I’ve been relying on the suggested message responses more than ever.
Apple elaborates on what’s new this year:
Smart Replies have become even more precise for users whose device language is set to English, featuring an improved on-device language model that can generate relevant responses based on the conversation content.
I’ve definitely observed Smart Replies sounding significantly more natural to me than previously, which has been beneficial in reducing my need to reach for my iPhone as often.
Which watchOS 26 features have stood out to you so far? Share your thoughts in the comments.
