Apple, on Monday, June 9, unveiled watchOS 26 – its new version of the operating system for Apple Watch. The latest version of watchOS comes with a new look and numerous AI features “for a more personalized experience” that helps users stay active, healthy and connected.
Like iPhones, iPads, Macs and MacBooks, watchOS 26 sports Apple’s new “Liquid Glass” design, which gives the user interface a translucent frosted glass look and feel.As part of the redesign, Apple says features like Smart Stack, Control Center, Photos watch face, and the in-app navigation and controls are now “more expressive”. Here’s a quick look at what’s new with watchOS 26.
Workout Buddy
At the WWDC 2025, Apple introduced a new AI-powered feature called Workout Buddy. In a blog post, the company said that the “first of its kind” functionality takes into consideration the user’s workout data along with their fitness history to “generate personalized, motivational insights during their session.” These insights use data like pace, heart rate, distance, personal fitness milestones, Activity rings and more.
For example, when you start a run, Workout Buddy will give you a “personalized pep talk”, telling you about your running mileage for the week. Moreover, it can also mark things like mile splits or a new milestone based on your fitness history.
To use Workout Buddy, Apple says you will need an Apple Watch with Bluetooth headphones and an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence nearby. The functionality will be available in English and works with some of the most popular workout types like Outdoor and Indoor Run, Outdoor and Indoor Walk, Outdoor Cycle, HIIT, and Functional and Traditional Strength Training.
Revamped workout experience
The Workout app on watchOS 26 is also getting a few upgrades. The update brings four new buttons in the corners of the app, which makes it easy for users to access things like workout customisation, Workout Views, Custom Workout, Pacer, Race Route and more.
Also, users will soon be able to set up music and podcasts right within the Workout app so they can play their favourite audio whenever a workout starts. The company says Apple Music will automatically play the best playlist based on your workout type and personal taste.
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Smart Stack gets even better
Apple has also improved the Smart Stack feature on watchOS 26. With the upcoming update, the functionality now offers improved prediction algorithms by taking into consideration things like sensor data and user routine to offer hints and actionable suggestions that are useful to the user.
For example, Apple Watch may automatically show a hint for Backtrack when you are in a remote location with no connectivity, or give you a hint for Pilates when you arrive at a particular location like the gym.
Which Apple Watch will get watchOS 26?
Here’s a complete list of devices that will be getting the watchOS 26 update.
Apple Watch SE (2nd generation)
Apple Watch Series 6
Apple Watch Series 7
Apple Watch Series 8
Apple Watch Series 9
Apple Watch Series 10
Apple Watch Ultra
Apple Watch Ultra 2
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