Apple has set the date for its next big hardware event — September 9th — at which time it will introduce its next batch of Apple Watches. Shortly thereafter, it’ll also roll out the next-gen operating system, watchOS 26, to the Apple Watch you already own.
With watchOS 26, your current Apple Watch will receive a “Liquid Glass” redesign and several new features. That said, there’s a little bit of catch. While watchOS 26 will be supported on all Apple Watch models that are Series 6 or later, some of the more advanced new features require a newer model.
Specifically, you’ll need Apple Watch released in the last two years — so, Series 9 or later — to take advantage of them. If you bought a Series 8 or the original Ultra, you’re going to be missing out.
The exclusive features
First and most importantly, there’s Wrist Flick. This is a simple movement — quickly roll or (“flick”) your wrist away from you — that will quickly dismiss things like app notifications, incoming calls, and timers.
This is an Accessibility feature similar to Double Tap, but promises to be a lot more practical for the everyday user.
Wrist Flick may be the most useful Apple Watch feature that Apple has released in years. Photo by Tucker Bowe for Gear Patrol