Apple is ending software support for three Apple Watch models from 2022 and 2023. That means owners of these devices won’t be able to run watchOS 27 when it launches later this year. This information came out during Apple’s WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference) on June 8, 2026, where they shared updates about upcoming software.
Which Watches Are Getting Cut Off?
As reported by Engadget, three smartwatch models from 2022 and 2023 will lose compatibility with watchOS 27. This is a surprising move since many people expect devices they’ve bought in the last two to three years to still receive the latest updates. Especially considering these watches cost between $249 and $799 at launch.
Historically, Apple has supported iPhones and Watches for five or more years with major software updates. So, cutting support for models from 2022 and 2023 raises some eyebrows.
Apple TVs Are Also Losing Support
The Apple Watch isn’t the only device getting dropped. According to MacRumors, tvOS 27 — the software for Apple’s TV streaming box — will also stop supporting two Apple TV models. Apple barely touched on tvOS 27 during the WWDC keynote, but the changes came to light in documentation released with the developer beta, which is an early version of the software for app developers.
Only the Apple TV 4K will be able to run tvOS 27, as reported by 9to5Mac. The first developer beta for tvOS 27 is already available for that model.
Why Does Apple Do This?
Apple often drops support for older hardware because new software features demand more processing power or memory than older chips can provide. Imagine trying to run a modern video game on a five-year-old laptop; the hardware just can’t handle it. This time, Apple’s push into AI-powered features likely requires newer chips that older Watch and Apple TV models lack.
iPadOS 27 is also focusing on AI features, with Apple adding more smart tools to its tablets, according to CNET. This trend of AI features influencing hardware cutoffs seems consistent across Apple’s 2026 software lineup.
| Apple (AAPL) — Company Snapshot | |
|---|---|
| Stock Price | $301.54 (−1.89%) |
| CEO | Tim Cook |
| Headquarters | Cupertino, CA |
| Founded | 1976 |
| Sector | Big Tech |
| watchOS 27 Support Dropped | 3 Watch models (2022–2023) |
| tvOS 27 Support Dropped | 2 Apple TV models |
| tvOS 27 Compatible | Apple TV 4K only |
What This Means
If you own an Apple Watch Series 8 or another model from 2022 or 2023, you’re facing a hard stop on major software updates after watchOS 26. Your watch will still work — it won’t just stop functioning — but you won’t get new features. Over time, you may lose access to apps that need the latest software version.
For Apple TV owners, it’s a similar story. If your device isn’t the 4K model, you’re out of luck with tvOS 27. Considering the Apple TV HD was still available for purchase not long ago, many buyers might feel blindsided by this news.
The takeaway? If you’re thinking about buying an Apple Watch or Apple TV, make sure you’re choosing a current-generation model. Older stock that’s on sale may have a shorter useful software life than you expect.
Community Reactions
“My Series 8 is barely two years old and already getting dropped? This is why I’m starting to question the upgrade cycle.”
“Apple dropping the Apple TV HD makes sense hardware-wise but they really should’ve been upfront about the support timeline when selling it.”
What To Watch
- Summer 2026: Developer and public betas for watchOS 27 will shed more light on which features lead to these hardware cutoffs.
- Fall 2026: Expect watchOS 27 and tvOS 27 to launch publicly alongside new iPhone and Apple Watch hardware, likely in September.
- Apple’s response: Keep an eye out for any trade-in promotions or discounts for users whose devices are losing support, as Apple has done during past transitions.
- Developer feedback: App developers might start requiring watchOS 27 sooner than expected if Apple’s new AI tools become standard in popular apps, accelerating the impact on unsupported devices.
Maya Torres
Maya Torres is the Consumer Tech Editor at Explosion.com with 7 years covering product launches for major technology publications. She has reviewed over 300 devices across smartphones, laptops, wearables, and smart home products. Maya specializes in translating spec sheets into real-world buying advice and attends CES, MWC, and Apple keynotes as press. Her reviews focus on helping readers decide what to buy, not just what specs look good on paper.
