Apple is reportedly planning to bring Touch ID to the Apple Watch next year.
Macworld discovered references in internal developer code suggesting that Apple is working on a biometric authentication feature for the Apple Watch.
The code mentions support for “AppleMesa”, which, reportedly, has long been the internal codename for Touch ID. Since the code is intended for internal use, Macworld believes the Touch ID feature is likely still in the prototype stage. This suggests that the upcoming Apple Watch Series 11 and Watch Ultra 3 probably won’t have Touch ID.
There is no information available on how Touch ID will be implemented on the Apple Watch, but Apple could integrate it into the side button or utilise an in-display optical sensor.
Touch ID on the Apple Watch could provide at least two benefits: unlocking the watch would be faster and more convenietn than entering a numerical code, and Apple Pay would be more secure.
In addition to Touch ID, the code references a new chip called the T8320. The upcoming Apple Watch Series 11 and Watch Ultra 3 are rumoured to be powered by a new S11 chip based on the T8310. The mention of the T8320 hints at a significant performance leap for the 2026 Apple Watch.
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 alongside the Apple Watch Series 11 and Watch Ultra 3 next month.
Source: Macworld