New Apple Watch Software Includes Serious Fitness Upgrades
The public beta of watchOS 26 introduces new features like Workout Buddy and a significantly redesigned Workout app
The public beta of watchOS 26 is now live, giving Apple Watch users early access to new features set to roll out more broadly this fall. This year’s update introduces several changes aimed at improving personalization, workout tracking and day-to-day interactions.
One of the headline features is “Workout Buddy,” a new tool that uses Apple Intelligence to deliver personalized audio insights during workouts. Drawing from data like heart rate, distance, pace and Activity ring progress, Workout Buddy provides context-aware prompts, offering users updates on their performance, milestones and progress toward goals. Audio is generated using Apple Fitness+ trainer voices, with options for users to select a preferred voice style.
The Workout app itself is getting its most significant redesign in years. A new layout adds quick-access buttons in each corner of the screen, making it easier to navigate features like Custom Workouts, Workout Views, Pacer and media controls. Users can also configure workouts to automatically launch playlists or podcasts, with Apple Music providing personalized suggestions based on workout type and listening history.
watchOS 26 updates the Smart Stack with more contextual intelligence and a new feature called “Smart Stack hints,” prompts that surface useful widgets depending on location, time, or behavior. A new “wrist flick” gesture allows users to dismiss notifications or silence timers with a simple turn of the wrist, while notification volume now adjusts automatically based on ambient noise.
In Messages, Apple Watch users will now see “Live Translation” for incoming texts and replies in supported languages, along with more accurate smart replies and context-aware suggestions like starting a Check In or sending money through Apple Cash.
The update also brings changes to Apple Fitness+, including the addition of ready-made “Custom Plans.” These provide users with structured schedules based on their preferences and goals, like maintaining a routine, increasing intensity, or getting started for the first time.
The watchOS 26 public beta is compatible with Apple Watch Series 6 and later, including Apple Watch Ultra models, when paired with an iPhone running iOS 26. The final version of watchOS 26 is expected to be released this fall. Backing up one’s device before installing beta software is recommended.
Users interested in trying the update can enroll through Apple’s public beta program at beta.apple.com.