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Apple reveals why watchOS 27 will be limited to Apple Watch Ultra 2 and newer models

Apple is limiting watchOS 27 to the SE 3, Series 9 and newer, and Ultra 2 and newer. The update introduces a standalone Siri app, single-hand gestures, and perimenopause cycle tracking. Beta 2 is currently available for developers.

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What changed

Specific compatible models and new software features have been identified.

Live updates

  1. Apple Details watchOS 27 Compatibility and Beta Releases

    Apple is limiting watchOS 27 to the SE 3, Series 9 and newer, and Ultra 2 and newer. The update introduces a standalone Siri app, single-hand gestures, and perimenopause cycle tracking. Beta 2 is currently available for developers.

    What's confirmed:

    • watchOS 27 is compatible with Apple Watch SE 3, Series 9, 10, 11, and Ultra 2 and 3.
    • The update drops support for Series 6 through 8.
    • Apple released watchOS 27 beta 2 for developers.
    • New features include a standalone Siri app, single-hand gestures, an on-watch Workout Buddy, perimenopause cycle tracking, and a unified Find My app.

    Still unconfirmed:

    • Apple released a dedicated watchOS 27 beta for the Apple Watch Ultra 3 on June 25 due to possible technical issues.
    • Cait Dooley, Apple Watch and Health Product Marketing Manager, explained why five models will not receive the update.
    confidence 90%

  2. Apple Details Device Compatibility for watchOS 27

    Apple is limiting watchOS 27 to newer hardware to support Siri AI and other intelligent features. The update will be available this fall for Series 9 and newer, Ultra 2 and later, and the SE 3. Unsupported models will continue to receive security updates.

    What's confirmed:

    • watchOS 27 will be available on Apple Watch Series 9 and newer, Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later, and the Apple Watch SE 3.
    • Apple cited performance needs for an enhanced Siri and AI-powered features as the reason for dropping support.
    • Five older Apple Watch models will not receive the update.
    • Unsupported devices will still receive security updates.
    • The update is expected to arrive this fall.

    Still unconfirmed:

    • Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8, Ultra 1, and SE 2 are the specific models losing support.
    • Some devices being dropped are only four years old.
    confidence 90%

  3. Apple Limits watchOS 27 Support to Series 9, Ultra 2, and SE 3

    Apple is dropping watchOS 27 support for five older Apple Watch models due to the processing requirements of new AI features. Affected devices will only receive basic security updates. This represents the most aggressive software cutoff in the product line's history.

    What's confirmed:

    • watchOS 27 will not be available for the Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8, SE 2, and the original Apple Watch Ultra.
    • Apple stated that the new Siri AI features require the processing power of newer models.
    • The S9 chip is the minimum requirement for watchOS 27.
    • Excluded devices will only receive basic security updates moving forward.
    • The update was announced at WWDC 2026.
    • Apple is dropping three years of device support in a single update.

    Still unconfirmed:

    • The new tap gesture also requires the processing power of the Series 9, Ultra 2, and SE 3.
    confidence 100%