Apple unveils watchOS 26 with Liquid Glass design and Workout Buddy

Apart from iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe 26, Apple also introduced watchOS 26 with the integrated Workout Buddy.

Apple WatchOS 26

Refined UI on your wrist

Apple's watchOS 26 introduces a Liquid Glass design, consistent across all Apple operating systems, creating a dynamic interface that reflects and refracts content through real-time rendering. 

Liquid Design on your wrist

This design enhances Smart Stack widgets, notifications, Control Center, in-app controls, navigation, and the Photos watch face, which now features Liquid Glass numerals to display more of the selected image.

The Workout app includes four new corner buttons for easier access to key features, with options to configure music and podcasts to play automatically during workouts. 

Apple Music can select playlists tailored to workout types and user preferences, while suggesting playlists and podcasts based on recent listening habits for specific activities.

Smart Stack uses advanced prediction algorithms, utilizing contextual data, sensor inputs, and user routines to offer proactive Smart Stack hints, displayed as subtle visual prompts. 

Live Translation

Live Translation in Messages is supported on Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 when paired with an iPhone running Apple Intelligence. 

For English-language users, the watch suggests context-based actions in Messages, such as initiating a Check In for sharing arrival details or using Apple Cash for group gift contributions.

Customizable iPhone backgrounds from iOS 26 sync to the Apple Watch, enabling users to respond to polls from their wrist. 

Smart Replies for English users are improved with a refined on-device AI model. Notifications, incoming calls, timers, and alarms can be dismissed or silenced by quickly flipping the wrist after raising it.

watchOS 26 adjusts speaker volume automatically based on ambient noise for notifications, timers, alarms, calls, and Siri interactions. 

While the Notes app arrives on the Apple Watch, allowing users to pin, unlock, and create notes, complete checklists, and use Siri, dictation, or the keyboard. 

The Hold Assist and Call Screening integrate with iOS 26 iPhones, while Live Listen controls for deaf or hard-of-hearing users provide real-time captions on the watch when paired with an iPhone, with the ability to remotely start or stop sessions.

The watch face gallery is redesigned, and the Photos face shuffles images from Featured content in the Photos app. 

These features will be available through the Apple Beta Software Program starting next month.

What do you guys think?

Source: Apple