Apple released watchOS 27 on September 14, bringing major software changes to supported Apple Watch models, including the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4. The update introduces a dedicated Siri app with private iCloud syncing, a dynamic app grid replacing the honeycomb view, a new “Tap” gesture for the Smart Stack, and consolidated Find My mapping features.
How to Install the watchOS 27 Update
To install watchOS 27, open the Watch app on your paired iPhone and go to General, then tap Software Update. Strap your watch into its charger and follow the onscreen prompts to complete the installation process across supported hardware.
Dedicated Siri App and Siri Modular Watch Face
Siri now features a dedicated app that collects every conversation in a single view and syncs them privately across devices via iCloud. Users can start a conversation on an iPhone, pick up the thread on an Apple Watch, pin important chats, or initiate a new chat directly from the wrist. The new Siri Modular watch face also includes a rectangular complication showing the top item from the Smart Stack, updating automatically throughout the day based on time and location.
Dynamic App Grid and the Removal of Walkie-Talkie
Pressing the Digital Crown now opens a dynamic grid composed of suggested apps, frequently used apps, and recent apps, with the Siri app placed in the center, though the alphabetical list remains accessible by turning the Crown. Meanwhile, Apple has entirely removed the Walkie-Talkie app, making it unavailable for reinstallation from the App Store after updating.
Changes to App Switching and Live Rewind
The App Switcher will return in watchOS 27.2, accessed via a different gesture, though beta users can currently open it by performing a long press on the bottom of the active app.
Health, Fitness, and Tracking Updates
Workout Buddy no longer requires an iPhone in range if Wi-Fi or cellular is available, and it now supports Spanish alongside English while tracking training history gains. Cycle Tracking can now notify users aged 40 and over if logged patterns suggest perimenopause, based strictly on logged cycle history. Machine learning motion algorithms also improve treadmill distance accuracy for indoor runs and walks from the very first step.
Pro Tip: If you are currently testing the watchOS 27 beta and miss the traditional App Switcher, you can still access it by performing a long press on the bottom edge of your active app screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use the Walkie-Talkie app on watchOS 27?
No. The Walkie-Talkie app has been removed entirely in watchOS 27 and cannot be reinstalled from the App Store.
How do I open the App Switcher in watchOS 27?
Double-pressing the Digital Crown now triggers the new dynamic app grid instead of the App Switcher. Apple plans to restore the App Switcher in the upcoming watchOS 27.2 release.
Does Workout Buddy require an iPhone connection?
No. Unlike in watchOS 26, Workout Buddy can run directly on the Apple Watch in watchOS 27 if a Wi-Fi or cellular connection is available.
Who is eligible for the new perimenopause notification feature?
The Cycle Tracking feature is available to users aged 40 and older, and notifications are triggered solely by patterns in logged cycle history.
Stay Updated on Apple Watch Software
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