watchOS 26 previewed by Apple will offer a new design with Liquid Glass for a more personalized experience and enhanced fitness support.
The software design revamp includes features like Smart Stack, Control Center, and Photos watch face with in-app navigation improvements.
Workout Buddy, a fitness feature with Apple Intelligence, provides personalized spoken motivation based on user's workout data and history.
The Workout app now offers a new layout and music suggestions tailored to the user's preferences and workout type.
Smart Stack hints, improved Messages, and a new wrist flick gesture for notifications enhance everyday interactions on Apple Watch.
Live Translation in Messages, Smart Stack hints, and one-handed wrist flick gesture offer added convenience and proactive assistance.
Additional updates include Notes app integration, Hold Assist and Call Screening for Phone app, Live Listen controls, and more.
Developers can utilize new APIs in watchOS 26 for design materials adoption, custom controls creation, and location-based Smart Stack widget additions.
The availability of all these features for testing starts today, with watchOS 26 set to be released as a free update this fall for compatible Apple Watch models.
The features highlighted require specific device support and iOS 26 compatibility, subject to language and regional limitations.