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Apple says watchOS 26.5 fixes two key Apple Watch bugs

2026-05-05 | original
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Why This Matters

Apple's release of watchOS 26.5 addresses critical bugs that enhance user experience and reliability for Apple Watch users. The updates improve messaging consistency and workout audio alerts, reflecting Apple's ongoing commitment to refining its wearable ecosystem. This update is particularly important as it prepares users for the upcoming watchOS 27 launch announced at WWDC.

Key Takeaways

Alongside iOS 26.5, Apple also released the watchOS 26.5 RC yesterday. The update includes a new Pride Luminance watch face with a ton of customization options, as Zac covered earlier today. There are also two key bug fixes that Apple Watch users will appreciate.

Apple says that watchOS 26.5 fixes a bug affecting iMessage, as well as a problem impacting the Workout app. The company explains:

Fixes an issue where Messages on Apple Watch may use SMS instead of iMessage when paired with a dual SIM iPhone

Fixes an issue where Workout app audio alerts could fail to play if the phone was not nearby Apple Watch

Now that the watchOS 26.5 RC is available, we expect the update to be released to everyone as soon as next week. Attention will then shift to watchOS 27, which will be announced at WWDC on June 8.

Have you faced either of these bugs on your Apple Watch? Let us know down in the comments.

My favorite Apple Watch links:

Follow Chance: Threads, Bluesky, Instagram, and Mastodon.

Explore topics: apple watch watchos 26.5 imessage workout app wwdc
Related:
watchOS 26.5 adds a colorful new Apple Watch face with these customization options
Here’s the next Apple Watch face coming in watchOS 26.5 and how to customize it
WatchOS 27 Set to Get Slimmed-Down Watch Ultra Face, Report Says
Apple's New Rainbow Pride Band Is 10 Years In the Making
Apple releases iOS 26.5 RC

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