This fall, Apple is set to release watchOS 27, the latest update for the Apple Watch. While not a groundbreaking overhaul, it introduces several useful enhancements, most notably the integration of Siri AI on your wrist.
Siri AI Comes to Apple Watch
With Siri AI, users will enjoy the same intelligent capabilities available on iPhone. Currently absent from the beta, these features will roll out later this year. Apple plans a dedicated Siri app to access all conversations. Siri AI requires an iPhone with Apple Intelligence, such as iPhone 15 Pro or later. Siri can access personal data, search the web, and perform actions in apps.
Dynamic App Grid and Visual Improvements
Pressing the Digital Crown reveals a new dynamic grid that places the Siri app front and center, alongside suggested apps. It also offers a shortcut to the full app list. Apple enhanced Liquid Glass with better contrast and uniform refraction, improving readability.
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Workout Buddy and Cycle Tracking
Workout Buddy now works without your iPhone nearby. New metrics track progressive increases in distance, pace, and run duration. Cycle Tracking recognizes menopause and perimenopause with notifications, and treadmill readings are more accurate.
New Tap Gesture and Smart Stack
A new gesture lets you tap your index finger and thumb to select a widget in the Smart Stack. New suggested widgets include parked car, Siri, pinned messages, transit cards, noise notifications, and birthday reminders.
Calls, Wallet, and Find My
During a call, the watch displays relevant information, like a flight confirmation number. Custom passes created with Wallet on iPhone work on Apple Watch. The unified Find My app locates devices, items, and people, with Precision Finding for iPhone, AirPods Pro 3, or AirTag 2.
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Optimized Battery Life
Apple disabled seldom-used features such as gestures, Start Workout reminders, and Raise to Speak to conserve battery, resulting in longer runtime.
watchOS 27 is compatible with Apple Watch Series 9 and later, Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later, and Apple Watch SE 3. To install the beta, follow our guide on how to install the iOS 27 developer beta for free. For more details, check the Wikipedia page on watchOS.
Source: https://www.macrumors.com/2026/06/18/watchos-27-hands-on
