WatchOS 27 developer beta: how to download now

Apple unveiled WatchOS 27 at WWDC 2026 and has released the developer beta. The public beta is expected in July, with a likely general release in September following the iPhone 18 event. Beta software can contain bugs, so back up your data before installing. To get the developer beta you must first install the iOS 27 developer beta on your iPhone.

Then open the Watch app and go to General > Software Update > Beta Updates to select the WatchOS 27 beta. The update requires an iPhone 11 or later, or iPhone SE (2nd generation or later), running iOS 27. Compatibility is limited. Supported models include Apple Watch SE (3rd Gen), Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Ultra 3.

WatchOS 27 drops support for Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8 and 9, and the first‑generation Apple Watch Ultra. The release brings 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 and enhanced cycle tracking.

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