watchOS 26 gets a fresh design and new health-focused features for Apple Watch users

Apple introduces a refreshed design and new health features in watchOS 26 that continue Apple's steady push to make the Apple Watch a better fitness companion.

Apple officially unveiled watchOS 26 at WWDC, bringing a fresh look to the Apple Watch experience. While not the flashiest update, it's still worth a closer look.

A key visual upgrade in watchOS 26 is the introduction of Apple's new "Liquid Glass" design language. Borrowing directly from the aesthetics of visionOS, this fresh look brings fluid translucency and subtle depth to elements across the Watch interface.

Control Center panels, Smart Stack widgets, in-app controls, and even the numerals on the Photos watch face all adopt a glass-like sheen and refractive quality. As Apple describes it, these elements "reflect and refract content using realtime rendering," creating a more vibrant, expressive experience that underscores content rather than competing with it.

This aligns the Apple Watch with updates across iOS, iPadOS, and visionOS. It's a step toward a more consistent experience across all Apple devices.

Next, watchOS 26 introduces new intelligent features and improved fitness tools aimed at making the Apple Watch more personal and useful. A new wrist flick gesture lets users dismiss notifications, calls, or timers with a subtle hand motion, adding to the convenience of one-handed use.

Volume adjustments for Siri, calls, and alerts now respond to ambient noise levels for better situational awareness. Apple Intelligence plays a central role in the update. Workout Buddy offers real-time, spoken coaching drawn from the user's metrics, using Fitness+ voice models for a natural tone.

The redesigned Workout app adds new layout controls and the ability to auto-play curated Apple Music playlists based on workout type and listening history. The update also enhances Smart Stack predictions with more contextual hints, like surfacing a Pilates widget when you arrive at the gym.

Messages gain live translation, smarter replies, and inline action suggestions like Apple Cash transfers or Check In prompts. Other additions include a full Notes app, customizable watch face gallery, new accessibility tools like Live Captions, and Call Screening support when paired with an iPhone.