watchOS 26 introduced at WWDC 2025: New look, smarter features and more

At the recent WWDC 2025, Apple unveiled the latest iteration of its smartwatch software, watchOS 26, introducing a host of innovative features and a fresh, modern design. This update emphasizes enhanced usability in fitness, messaging, and day-to-day activities. One of the standout elements of watchOS 26 is its new aesthetic known as Liquid Glass, which incorporates sleek, transparent effects for widgets, notifications, and the Control Centre. This redesign not only modernizes the appearance of apps but also maintains user-friendly navigation. Additionally, the beloved Photos watch face has been revamped, showcasing numbers crafted from Liquid Glass to accentuate your favorite images. A major highlight of this update is the introduction of Workout Buddy, a virtual coaching tool powered by Apple Intelligence. This feature provides spoken encouragement during workouts, offering insights based on personal fitness metrics like heart rate and distance. Users can expect motivational prompts such as, "You’re 18 minutes away from closing your Exercise ring." Currently, Workout Buddy supports various activities, including running and strength training, and operates in English, requiring a nearby compatible iPhone and Bluetooth headphones. The Workout app has also been upgraded with a more intuitive interface, featuring four new buttons for quick access to functions like Custom Workouts and Race Route. Moreover, users can set playlists to play automatically based on their workout preferences, with Apple Music curating recommendations tailored to their listening habits. Another noteworthy addition is the “wrist flick” gesture, which allows users to easily dismiss notifications simply by flicking their wrist. This functionality extends to calls, alarms, and timers, utilizing AI and sensors to recognize the gesture. Furthermore, the Apple Watch will now adjust alert sounds based on ambient noise levels, ensuring users can stay informed without disturbing those around them. In a bid to enhance communication, the Messages app now features live translation capabilities, translating incoming texts into your preferred language and vice versa. This feature will be available on newer Apple Watch models when paired with a compatible iPhone. The Smart Stack widget group has been refined to offer more relevant suggestions, adapting to users' habits and locations, such as prompting a workout reminder upon arriving at the gym. The Notes app is now accessible on the Apple Watch, enabling users to create and manage notes through voice commands or the keyboard. Additionally, the Photos watch face will now highlight more significant images from your library. For users who are deaf or hard of hearing, Live Listen has been improved, allowing easier control from a connected iPhone and providing real-time captions on the watch. Enhancements in the Phone app, including Hold Assist and Call Screening, will help manage incoming calls more effectively. Developers can access watchOS 26 immediately, with a public beta set to launch next month. The full version is anticipated later this year and will be available as a free update for Apple Watch Series 6 and later models, including the second-generation SE and Ultra. However, some features will require newer iPhones, such as the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16, and availability may vary by region and language. Stay tuned for more updates on Apple’s latest technology innovations.