watchOS 27: Which Apple Watches Are Compatible?

This fall, Apple’s watchOS 27 will stop supporting several older Apple Watch models, leaving some devices that still run the current software behind. Let’s break down which watches will be compatible and which ones won’t.

The Full Compatibility List

Apple unveiled watchOS 27 at WWDC 2026. As expected, they released a list of supported and unsupported devices. To run the update, you’ll need an Apple Watch Series 9 or later and an iPhone 16 or later to pair with it.

Initially, there was some confusion when watchOS 27 launched. The Apple Watch Series 9 was accidentally excluded from Apple’s official compatibility page. Apple confirmed to MacRumors that the Series 9 is indeed supported — it was just a mistake on the website.

Watches That Support watchOS 27

• Apple Watch Series 9
• Apple Watch Series 10
• Apple Watch Ultra 2
• Apple Watch Ultra 3 (if announced)
• Apple Watch SE (3rd generation, if applicable)

Watches That Are Cut Off

If you have an Apple Watch older than the Series 9, including the popular Series 8, Series 7, and SE (2nd generation), you won’t get watchOS 27. Those watches will remain on watchOS 26. Apple usually supports previous versions with security patches for a while after a new OS release, but you won’t receive any new features.

According to 9to5Mac, this move reflects a broader trend from Apple across its entire 2026 OS lineup. Both iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 also dropped support for various older hardware this cycle.

What’s New in watchOS 27

The biggest addition is Siri AI. This new on-device version of Siri can handle more complex requests without needing to send data to a remote server. Imagine Siri having a much larger brain right on your wrist.

Apple has also revamped the app grid with a new “dynamic” layout. This layout changes how apps are arranged based on usage frequency. Apps you use often will be closer to the center, while those you rarely open will move to the edges. The update includes improvements in health and fitness tracking, but Apple hasn’t yet shared all the details.

The Verge pointed out that watchOS 27 is set for release “this fall,” which aligns with Apple’s usual September schedule for software updates.

What This Means

If you have an Apple Watch Series 8 or older, your watch has reached its software limit. It won’t get Siri AI, the new app grid, or any new health features Apple announces before the fall. Your watch will still work — Apple doesn’t disable older hardware remotely — but over time, apps that require watchOS 27 features won’t run on it. You’ll gradually miss out on the latest experiences.

For Series 9 owners, there’s no need to worry anymore. Your watch is supported, and you’re all set for the update this fall. No need to upgrade your hardware.

Keep in mind that you need both a Series 9 and an iPhone 16. Even if your watch qualifies, an older iPhone could prevent the update. This is something to think about if you’re still using an older phone.

Community Reactions

“Series 8 dropped already? I bought it two years ago. Classic Apple.”

“The Series 9 being left off the list initially gave me a heart attack. Glad it was just a typo on their website.”

What To Watch

• Fall 2026: watchOS 27 will launch, likely alongside announcements of new Apple Watch hardware and iPhones in September.
• Summer 2026: Developer and public betas will roll out soon — early adopters can try watchOS 27 now by joining Apple’s beta program.
• Ongoing: Keep an eye out for Apple to reveal the complete list of new health and fitness features, which are still under wraps.
• Security patches: Apple will likely continue providing security-only updates for watchOS 26 for devices that can’t upgrade, though we don’t have an official timeline for how long that support will last.