Apple has launched watchOS 26, the most recent significant update for Apple Watch. This new version is available as a complimentary update starting today for compatible devices. Here’s how to get started after the update.
## Design and Interface Updates
watchOS 26 brings a polished design highlighted by Liquid Glass, which enhances the visual appeal of apps, widgets, notifications, and the Control Center. The Smart Stack has become more intelligent with new hints that reveal relevant widgets, and a new wrist flick gesture allows users to easily dismiss alerts or swiftly return to the watch face.
The revamped Workout app features simplified navigation with quick-access controls. Workout Buddy, driven by Apple Intelligence, offers real-time voice encouragement and tailored insights based on your fitness history. The update also introduces automatic workout media, allowing Apple Music or Podcasts to select the perfect playlist for your activity.
## Health Features Expand
watchOS 26 presents hypertension notifications, an unprecedented feature that utilizes the optical heart sensor to assess blood vessel response and monitor signs of chronic high blood pressure over time. Should consistent signs of hypertension be identified, users receive alerts that may encourage them to seek medical advice or implement lifestyle changes.
watchOS 26 additionally introduces sleep score, which aggregates data such as duration, bedtime consistency, sleep stages, and nighttime disturbances into a straightforward nightly score. The Sleep app now displays a breakdown of these elements, while trends can be monitored over time in the Health app on iPhone.
Messages now offer smarter replies, contextual actions, and Live Translation powered by Apple Intelligence, facilitating seamless communication in multiple languages. The Notes app makes its debut on Apple Watch, allowing for quick capture and access to pinned notes. The Phone app receives Call Screening and Hold Assist, features that collaborate with iPhone to transcribe unknown callers or remain on hold until a live agent is reachable. Live Listen enhances accessibility with real-time captions for what your iPhone hears, displayed on Apple Watch.
## New Watch Faces
watchOS 26 introduces two new watch faces:
– **Flow**, which showcases Liquid Glass numerals with dynamic color swirls that react to wrist movements.
– **Exactograph**, a contemporary interpretation of a regulator clock that distinctly defines hours, minutes, and seconds for accurate timekeeping.
For Apple Watch Ultra, a new Waypoint face provides a live compass, quick access to satellite communications, and Night Mode for enhanced visibility in low light. Over 20 existing faces have also been refreshed to support a ticking seconds hand in always-on mode.
watchOS 26 is available today for Apple Watch Ultra or later, and Series 6 or later, as well as Apple Watch SE (2nd generation or later), when paired with iPhone 12 or later running iOS 26.
