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After unveiling WatchOS 27 at WWDC 2026, Apple made the developer beta version available to users. While most watch users will receive a free software update to iOS 27 this fall (though availability may vary by carrier, region, and local regulations), you can get access as early as right now in a few simple steps.
WatchOS 27 is the successor to WatchOS 26, the latest operating system for Apple's lineup of smartwatches. Notably, the WatchOS 27 software will not be available for the Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8, and 9, and the first-gen Apple Watch Ultra.
Also: Apple WWDC 2026: iOS 27, Siri and Tim Cook's last event as CEO
If you're interested in being one of the first to test the new WatchOS 27, you can now install the developer beta on your device, followed by the public beta in July. Remember that beta versions always come with bugs or glitches, so ZDNET recommends backing up your data and keeping an open mind.
This WatchOS won't be flawless, but it does come with some new upgrades like a dedicated Siri app, a new dynamic app grid, a single-tap gesture to open a Smart Stack widget, more fitness insights with Workout Buddy, enhanced cycle tracking, and more.
To access the latest WatchOS 27, you'll need to first install the iOS 27 developer beta. Here's how to do so.
Then, open the Watch app and navigate to General > Software Update > Beta Updates to select the WatchOS 27 beta. Remember that WatchOS 27 is limited to Apple Watch Series 10 and newer.
Apple released the WatchOS 27 developer beta during WWDC 2026, and the public beta version will likely be released in July. If past years are any indication, the general release of WatchOS 27 will take place in September, following the iPhone 18 event.
WatchOS 27 also requires an iPhone 11 or later, or iPhone SE (2nd generation or later), running iOS 27. As in previous versions, if you've got an older Apple Watch, certain features may not be available upon update.
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WatchOS 27 cuts support for Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen), Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8, and 9, and the first-gen Apple Watch Ultra.
To install WatchOS 27 beta, you'll first need to have iOS 27 beta installed on your iPhone. Here's a guide from ZDNET expert Maria Diaz on how to do so. After you complete these prerequisites, you can open the Watch app and navigate to General > Software Update > Beta Updates to select the WatchOS 27 beta. WatchOS 27 additionally has tight hardware requirements: it's only limited to Apple Watch Series 10 and newer.
The public release of WatchOS 27 is expected this September. Depending on the carrier, region, and local restrictions, compatible Apple Watch users will be able to upgrade after it's available. If your device doesn't automatically push its own update when the time is right, you can always manually begin the process by ensuring your watch has at least 50% battery. Then you can use the Apple Watch app on your iPhone or the watch's Settings to download and install the update.
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