Apple has announced that watchOS 27 will not support Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8, Apple Watch SE 2nd generation, and the original Apple Watch Ultra. This move aims to ensure optimal performance for new AI-powered functionalities and a seamless Siri experience, though these models will still receive security patches.
- watchOS 27 excludes Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8, SE 2, and original Ultra models
- Focus on delivering advanced AI features and a unified Siri experience
- Older devices retain security updates despite lack of new features
What happened
Apple announced that the upcoming watchOS 27 update will not support several older Apple Watch models, specifically the Series 6, Series 7, Series 8, the second-generation Apple Watch SE, and the original Apple Watch Ultra. These devices will not receive the new software features bundled in watchOS 27 but will continue to get security updates.
The exclusion of these devices represents an unprecedented move, as Apple drops support for three years’ worth of watch models in a single update cycle. This decision reflects the company's emphasis on maintaining high performance and responsiveness for the new artificial intelligence-powered capabilities introduced in the latest watchOS.
Why it matters
Apple’s decision highlights the growing demands of AI features and improved Siri integration on wearable devices, which require more processing power than older models can efficiently provide. By limiting watchOS 27 compatibility to Apple Watch Series 9, Ultra 2, and SE 3 or later, Apple aims to deliver a smoother and more intelligent user experience.
This move could affect Indian Apple Watch users who rely on older models, as they won’t have access to enhanced Siri features such as consistent cross-device interactions and a new tap gesture, which are positioned as key advancements in the new software. Nonetheless, continued security updates ensure that existing devices remain safe from vulnerabilities.
What to watch next
watchOS 27 is currently in developer beta with a public beta expected soon ahead of its planned release in the fall. Industry watchers and users in India should monitor official Apple announcements regarding the rollout schedule and any detailed feature disclosures.
Additionally, the market response and user adoption of the newer Apple Watch models compatible with watchOS 27 will be key indicators of how well consumers accept the tradeoff between dropping support for older models and gaining access to enhanced AI-powered features.