One of the standout features of watchOS 26 is Workout Buddy, an AI-powered fitness coach that delivers real-time, personalized pep talks during workouts. Using voice data from Apple Fitness+ trainers, it analyzes metrics like heart rate, pace, distance, and Activity ring progress to offer tailored encouragement. For example, during a run, it might remind you of your weekly mileage or celebrate a new personal record, such as, “You’re 18 minutes from closing your Exercise ring—keep it up!” The feature supports popular workout types like running, walking, cycling, HIIT, and strength training.
To use Workout Buddy, you need an Apple Watch paired with an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence, specifically the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or any iPhone 16 model. Unlike other features, Workout Buddy doesn’t require specific Apple Watch models, meaning any watch compatible with watchOS 26—Series 6, SE (2nd generation), Ultra, or later—can run it, as long as the paired iPhone meets the AI requirements. The feature also requires Bluetooth headphones for the voice feedback, ensuring a seamless experience during workouts.
Live Translation Breaks Language Barriers
Live Translation, another key Apple Intelligence feature, brings real-time language translation to the Messages app on Apple Watch. This allows users to communicate across languages effortlessly, with translations appearing directly in conversations. At launch, it supports English (US and UK), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish (Spain), and Chinese (Simplified), with additional languages like Dutch and Vietnamese expected by year’s end.
However, Live Translation has stricter hardware demands. It requires an Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, or Ultra 2, as these models can handle the on-device language models necessary for real-time processing. Additionally, the paired iPhone must be AI-compatible (iPhone 15 Pro or later). This dual requirement reflects the feature’s reliance on both the watch’s processing power and the iPhone’s large language models, making it exclusive to newer hardware setups.
Smarter Replies and Notifications
The Messages app in watchOS 26 gets a boost with AI-enhanced Smart Replies, which use on-device machine learning to suggest context-aware responses. For instance, if someone texts, “Are you home yet?” the watch might offer to share your location as a reply. This feature, powered by the watch’s own processing, is available on Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2, regardless of the paired iPhone model, as it doesn’t rely on the iPhone’s AI capabilities.
Another AI-driven addition is the Wrist Flick gesture, which lets users dismiss notifications or calls with a quick wrist turn. Compatible with Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2, this gesture adds a convenient way to manage alerts without touching the screen, though some users on X note it feels awkward at first. The Smart Stack also becomes more intelligent, using predictive algorithms to surface relevant apps based on location, time, or routine—such as suggesting a workout card when you enter a gym.
Hardware Compatibility and Limitations
The varied hardware requirements for Apple Intelligence in watchOS 26 stem from the balance between on-device and cloud-based processing. Features like Workout Buddy rely on the iPhone’s AI capabilities, making them accessible to older watches paired with newer iPhones. In contrast, Live Translation and Smart Replies depend on the watch’s own processing power, limiting them to newer models with advanced chips. The full list of compatible watches includes Apple Watch Series 6, Series 7, Series 8, Series 9, Series 10, SE (2nd generation), Ultra, and Ultra 2, all requiring an iPhone 11 or later running iOS 26.
Apple’s decision to extend Apple Intelligence to the Watch has sparked excitement, with X posts highlighting enthusiasm for Workout Buddy’s motivational edge and Live Translation’s potential for travel. However, some users express frustration over the fragmented compatibility, noting that older watches miss out on key features despite supporting the base update. The requirement for an AI-compatible iPhone also limits access for users who haven’t upgraded their phones, a point raised in online discussions.
A Step Toward a Smarter Wearable
watchOS 26 positions the Apple Watch as a more intelligent and versatile device, with Apple Intelligence enhancing its role in fitness, communication, and daily productivity. The Liquid Glass design, with its translucent, glass-like interface, adds visual flair, while features like the revamped Workout app and third-party Control Center widgets improve usability. For users with the right hardware, these additions make the Apple Watch a more integral part of Apple’s ecosystem, seamlessly tying into iOS 26 and Fitness+.
As Apple continues to refine its AI offerings, watchOS 26 is a promising step, though its hardware requirements mean not all users will experience the full suite of features. For those with compatible devices, the update offers a glimpse into a future where the Apple Watch is not just a fitness tracker but a proactive, context-aware assistant. Whether you’re chasing fitness goals or bridging language gaps, watchOS 26 makes your watch work smarter.
