Apple previewed watchOS 9 - the next major software update for itsApple Watch- during itsWorldwide Developer Conference (WWDC)and now the final build of the software is available.
The software brings with it a host of new features. There are some big updates for the Workout app, as well as more advancedsleep trackingand new Watch faces, plus several more that you canread all about in our separate feature.
But there more important question is: Can your Apple Watch run watchOS 9?
Which Apple Watches support watchOS 9?
Apple’s next Watch software update supports the majority of the latest Apple Watch models, though there is one big omission compared towatchOS 8.
The full list of compatible Apple Watch models is as follows:
You’ll notice the Apple Watch Series 3 is not on the list, with Apple dropping support for the four-year old smartwatch this time around. Support for the original Apple Watch and Watch Series 2 was dropped previously.
Don’t know what Apple Watch you have?
If you aren’t sure what Apple Watch you have, there is an easy way to find out. Take your Apple Watch off your wrist and turn it over. Around the heart rate sensor on the back of the display, you’ll see some writing etched into the back. Within this writing will be the Watch Series number you have, along with the size and the casing material.
Will you get all the new features?
Sadly not all features in watchOS 9 will be available for all Apple Watch users. This is mainly down to the hardware within the different models rather than Apple being difficult.
Apple Watch Mirroring is available onApple Watch Series 6and later for example, and support for the keyboard in different languages requires theApple Watch Series 7or later.
When is watchOS 9 be available?
WatchOS 9 was released for Apple Watch Series 4 from 19 July 2025. It requires iPhone 8 or later and iPhone SE (2nd generation) or later running iOS 16. Not all features are available on all devices and in all regions.
