The full and final version of the watchOS 26 software update for Apple Watch is now available for download. Here’s how you can install it.
watchOS 26 Now Available for Download on Apple Watch with Liquid Glass, Workout Buddy, and Tons of Other New Features
It’s hard to imagine that Liquid Glass is coming to Apple Watch as well with watchOS 26. Sure, it’s not as intense as the one in iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26 Tahoe, but for the sake of consistency, it’s right there, and you’ll definitely notice it.
Apart from Liquid Glass, an AI-powered Workout Buddy feature is also a part of your Apple Watch now. It’s perfect for times when you want a little bit of push from a coach that lives right in your Apple Watch to go that extra mile.
You can read about all the new features coming to Apple Watch by checking out the official release notes here.
Before you go right ahead and download the update, there are a few things you should look into, and the first one is compatibility. This means you need at least an Apple Watch Series 6 in order to download the new watchOS 26 update.
You can check out the entire list by going here.
The watchOS 26 update will not show up if you do not update your iPhone to iOS 26. It’s a strict requirement, and one which you cannot bypass.
Also, once you upgrade to watchOS 26, there’s no going back to watchOS 11. This is a one-way street, and Apple does not allow downgrades on Apple Watch devices.
Here’s what you have to do in order to download and install the latest watchOS update:
Step 1. Place your Apple Watch on its charger and make sure it’s charged beyond 50%.
Step 2. Connect your iPhone and Apple Watch to Wi-Fi.
Step 3. Launch the Watch app on your iPhone.
Step 4. Tap on General.
Step 5. Open Software Update.
Step 6. Once this page is done loading, you’ll see the new watchOS 26 update. Tap on Update Now underneath it.
According to Apple, watchOS 26 has the following build number: 23R352
The download will begin immediately, and it will take a few minutes until the installation is complete. During this time, do not remove your Apple Watch from its charger, and keep your iPhone close to your Apple Watch as well.
