WatchOS 26 has been revealed by Apple during WWDC 2025, showcasing a modern design language, enhanced features driven by Apple Intelligence, and much-anticipated applications like Notes.

A Visual Overhaul: Introducing Liquid Glass

The highlight of this update is the introduction of Liquid Glass. This design draws inspiration from the optical properties of real glass, giving the UI layer a remarkable ability to refract light and adapt dynamically to on-screen content. Situated above the app content, Liquid Glass enriches the Apple Watch interface by adding depth and interactivity, making the display more vibrant and responsive.

Moreover, icons and UI components across the system have been enhanced for better clarity, while thoughtful improvements have been made to streamline user experience.

Fitness Gets a Voice: Meet Workout Buddy

With the introduction of Workout Buddy, Apple is enhancing its focus on personalised fitness solutions. This voice-activated feature, powered by Apple Intelligence, offers real-time motivation and tailored feedback based on individual workout history, heart rate, distance, pace, and Activity Rings.

As users approach their fitness milestones or aim for personal records, Workout Buddy keeps them informed and motivated with a voice similar to Fitness+ trainers. For example, it might announce: “You’re 18 minutes away from completing your Exercise ring. You’ve covered 6 miles so far this week. Let’s add to that today.”

Workout Buddy caters to various activity types such as running, cycling, HIIT, and strength training.

Additionally, the Workout app is undergoing a redesign. New corner buttons enhance navigation speed, and users can now initiate playlists and podcasts directly from within the app. Furthermore, Apple Music can automatically curate workout-specific playlists according to the user’s workout preferences and listening habits.

Smarter Interactions Everywhere

The Smart Stack feature has become more context-aware, now leveraging sensor data, habitual patterns, and geographic context. For instance, upon entering a gym, it may preemptively suggest a workout routine. If network connectivity is lost while outdoors, the feature can offer Backtrack, Apple’s safety tool designed to help retrace steps.

New Gestures, Notifications, and Volume Control

Apple Watch introduces a new wrist flick gesture, allowing users to dismiss notifications, mute alarms, and return to the watch face effortlessly without the need to touch the screen. This feature utilises the watch’s motion sensors alongside machine learning to enhance the existing double-tap functionality, providing greater control with one hand.

Furthermore, the Apple Watch will now adapt speaker volume based on surrounding noise levels, ensuring that Siri, alarms, and calls are audible without causing disruption.

Communication & Productivity Upgrades

The Messages app has been upgraded with features from iOS like live translation and chat backgrounds, adding a dynamic element to conversations on the wrist.

A highly anticipated enhancement is the inclusion of the Notes app on Apple Watch. Users can now jot down quick thoughts or review a to-do list directly from their wrist, adding significant convenience to everyday tasks.

Customisable Widgets & More

Widgets have also become more adaptable, allowing users to customise their Smart Stack to suit personal preferences. These nuanced yet impactful features contribute to making watchOS 26 feel not only more intelligent but also more catered to everyday life.

WatchOS 26 Availability

WatchOS 26 is set to be released later this year, with beta versions currently being rolled out to developers.