The public beta for the Apple Watch's latest software just arrived. Apple launched the public beta for iOS 26, WatchOS 26, and more, on Thursday. The software updates don't skimp on new WatchOS features, like an AI-powered fitness coach, Live Translation for Messages, and many more.
Also: Everything announced at WWDC 2025: iOS 26, AI, MacOS, iPad OS
The new features subtly infuse AI into regularly used apps and functionalities, improve peskier features, like the Call Screener, which monitors unknown numbers for spam, or notification volume adjustments that take your ambient environment into account before sending a blaring Apple Watch ping.
If you're interested in trying out the new software ahead of its official rollout in the fall and want to test-run the beta today, you will have to own one of the compatible Apple Watches. Plus, to update your Apple Watch to the latest software, you'll also need to update your iPhone as well.
Also: Your Apple Watch is getting an upgrade. Here are the best features coming to Watch OS 26
WatchOS 26 requires iPhone 11 or later or iPhone SE in tandem with one of the following Apple Watches. Certain Apple Intelligence-powered features, like Live Translation and Workout Buddy, require one of the following iPhone models: all iPhone 16 models, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Max with Apple Intelligence enabled.
Every Apple Watch model that supports WatchOS 26
Apple Watch Series 6
Apple Watch Series 7
Apple Watch Series 8
... continue reading