Apple's upcoming software rollout is about to make a major batch of Apple Watches feel a lot older. After its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2026), the tech giant officially confirmed that the upcoming watchOS 27 update will completely drop support for five older Apple Watch models. The decision marks a shift in how Apple handles lifecycle support for its wearables, leaving millions of devices locked out of future features.
Compatible Models
According to Apple's website, watchOS 27 is compatible with Apple Watch SE 3, Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 2, and Apple Watch Ultra 3. This leaves these five models officially cut from the update list:
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch Series 7
- Apple Watch Series 8
- Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation)
- Apple Watch Ultra (Original 1st Generation)
The S9 Chip Requirement for watchOS 27
Apple has not explicitly detailed the technical reasoning behind the cutoff. However, a report by New York Post says that the move is tied to processing power, as only newer watches equipped with Apple's S9 and S10 chips will be capable of running the new operating system.
This requirement aligns directly with Apple's push into artificial intelligence (AI). By cutting ties with older chips, watchOS 27 can introduce a deeply integrated, conversational Siri AI assistant designed to handle open-ended questions and natural brainstorming sessions right from the wrist. "Siri AI is powered by Apple Intelligence and more helpful than ever. Get more done every day with richer answers, natural conversations, and a new, dedicated app," Apple said.
There is also Workout Buddy, which Apple says "delivers motivation based on your fitness history with new data insights, including your progress for pace, distance, and workout duration."
Additional Features
Beyond AI upgrades, the new software introduces systemwide aesthetic design refinements, a dynamic new app grid layout, and a convenient new tap gesture allowing users to select individual widgets within the Smart Stack.
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