Apple in June previewed watchOS 10, its next major software update for compatible Apple Watch models. watchOS 10 is expected to be released in the fall, but will your existing Apple Watch run it? Keep reading to find out.
What's New in watchOS 10
By far the most interesting feature that watchOS 10 introduces is widgets: A new way to view information from any watch face without opening apps. A scroll of the Digital Crown reveals a dynamic Smart Stack of widgets below the watch face that changes based on the user's needs at any given time of day.
In terms of watch faces, two are new: "Palette" and an animated "Peanuts" face with Snoopy and Woodstock.
There are improvements to existing apps, too. For example, World Clock now features background colors that reflect the time of day in different timezones, while the Activity app now features corner icons to navigate, a redesigned trophy case, and a new full-screen view of each individual Activity Ring.
The update introduces new cycling workout features, including Power Zones, new metrics like Functional Threshold Power, a full-screen view on iPhone, and more. There's also a new mood tracking feature in the Mindfulness app that allows you to scroll through a selection of moods and log metrics.
watchOS 10 Compatibility
The good news is that if your existing Apple Watch runs watchOS 9, then it will run watchOS 10. The not-so-good news is that not all features will be available on all devices, so some of the more system intensive functions are likely limited to newer Apple Watch models.
watchOS 10 is compatible with the Apple Watch Series 4 and later, with a full list below.
- Apple Watch Series 4
- Apple Watch Series 5
- Apple Watch SE (All models)
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch Series 7
- Apple Watch Series 8
- Apple Watch Ultra
In addition to needing an Apple Watch Series 4 or later, you will also need an iPhone capable of running iOS 17. This includes the iPhone XS or later and iPhone XR or later. For a full list of iPhones compatible with iOS 17 and a summary of what's new, check out our quick guide.
