watchOS 26 Unveiled: Liquid Glass, AI Coach & Smart Features Revolutionize Apple Watch

In the watchOS 26 update, Apple has embraced the new Liquid Glass design language across the interface while introducing several notable enhancements, including a feature called Workout Buddy, which provides real-time suggestions—or motivation—during physical activity. Additionally, the update introduces intelligent feature recommendations based on the user’s current environment, expands support for wrist rotation gestures, and allows third-party apps to integrate directly into the Apple Watch Control Center.

The Workout Buddy feature leverages data recorded in the Health app—such as body metrics and exercise history—to transform the system into a virtual coach that helps users achieve their fitness goals. Initially, this feature will support running, treadmill workouts, weight training, cycling, HIIT sessions, and walking. Support for additional workout types is planned for the future. At launch, the feature is limited to English and does not yet support other languages.

Powered by Apple Intelligence, watchOS 26 also introduces a smart stack system that intuitively surfaces relevant features based on user context. For example, when the user enters a gym, the Apple Watch may proactively display commonly used workout types. Upon arriving at a destination, navigation options—such as a return route via Apple Maps—may appear automatically. With a single tap, users can initiate the suggested function directly from the watch face.

New wrist rotation gestures have been added to facilitate quick actions—such as silencing incoming calls, dismissing timers or alarms, or closing unnecessary smart stack cards. The watchOS 26 interface further adopts the Liquid Glass aesthetic, mirroring iOS 26’s enhancements, including customizable backgrounds for the Messages app.

The updated Control Center now supports integration of third-party apps, allowing users to manage a wider range of settings and toggles directly from their Apple Watch, thereby expanding control beyond Apple’s native features.

Other additions include support for Call Screen call filtering, AI-powered call handling, adaptive audio volume, and real-time translation.