- No downgrade path: You can't revert from watchOS 26 beta to watchOS 18.5.
- Developers only: Early beta access is best for developers or those with spare devices.
- New features: Liquid Glass design and AI-powered Workout Buddy arrive with watchOS 26.
- iPhone with iOS 26 required before installing watchOS 26 beta.
watchOS 26 has been officially announced by Apple at WWDC 2025, and you may be eager to test the new features. However, just before you run off and install the first developer or public beta, there is a big warning: you cannot downgrade your Apple Watch once the update is installed.
No Downgrade Available
Unlike iOS, macOS, or iPadOS, watchOS does not support downgrades. When you upgrade to a beta software, such as watchOS 26 beta 1, you cannot revert to watchOS 18.5. In the case of critical bugs, you can either wait until Apple provides a stable version or visit an Apple store, where they may be able to assist you.
Unless you are a developer preparing apps for rollout in the fall or have a backup device, it is probably best to wait.
When Is It Safe to Try?
The public beta is scheduled to be launched by Apple in July 2025; however, the same risks remain relevant at that point. However, if you wear your Apple Watch every day and can utilise it in areas such as health, fitness, or productivity, it is smarter to wait until the final release later this year.
How to Install watchOS 26 Beta
Should you still want to continue with the installation of the beta, you will have to install the iOS 26 beta on your iPhone first:
Step 1: Install iOS 26 Developer Beta
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Go to General > Software Update > Beta Updates.
- Switch from iOS 18 Developer Beta to iOS 26 Developer Beta.
Step 2: Install watchOS 26 Beta on Your Apple Watch
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
- Go to General > Software Update > Beta Updates.
- Select watchOS 26 Developer Beta.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to download and install.
watchOS 26 Features
Liquid Glass Design
Just like in visionOS, Apple is introducing beautiful shimmering light effects, as well as interactive reflections on buttons and menus, making your Watch look futuristic.
Workout Buddy
Meet this new AI-based fitness assistant that studies your training history and provides individual training recommendations. It is compatible with all kinds of workouts, such as:
- Outdoor/Indoor Running
- Walking (Indoor/Outdoor)
- Cycling
- HIIT
- Strength Training
To use Workout Buddy, you will need:
- An iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence
- Bluetooth headphones paired with your Watch
It is not worth trying watchOS 26 unless you are a developer (or have an extra Apple Watch). It has a lot to be excited about, and the fact that one cannot downgrade this beta makes it particularly risky.
