Apple shared the reasons behind its decision regarding Apple Watch models that will be out of support after the watchOS 27 update. The company states that the Siri-based artificial intelligence features and advanced interaction opportunities in the new version will only work on newer watch models due to certain hardware requirements. In this context, Apple Watch Series 6, Series 7, Series 8, second generation Apple Watch SE and first generation Apple Watch Ultra will not receive the watchOS 27 update.
This decision marks a remarkable change for the Apple Watch product family. The company ends approximately three years of device support with a single software update. From now on, these models will continue to receive only security-oriented updates instead of new feature updates. Despite this, users will be able to continue using their watches normally when paired with an iPhone with updated software.
Speaking to TechRadar, Apple Watch and Health product marketing manager Cait Dooley said that the decision was based on performance and processing power requirements. According to Dooley, Apple prioritizes user experience in every software release and aims for new features to work optimally. Therefore, Siri AI capabilities and new touch gestures coming with watchOS 27 will be available on Apple Watch Series 9 and later models, Ultra 2 and later, and the third generation Apple Watch SE.
With watchOS 27, the focus on artificial intelligence on the Apple Watch gets stronger
David Clark, one of Apple’s senior managers responsible for watchOS software engineering, also made evaluations about the company’s approach to the new version. Clark stated that one of the main goals of watchOS 27 is to make Apple Watch a more active part of the Apple Intelligence experience. Accordingly, Apple Watch will no longer be a device that only provides notifications and health tracking, but will also function as a digital assistant that can help the user in their daily tasks.
Clark also pointed out Siri’s usage scenarios on Apple Watch. Stating that the watch provides quick access to Siri because it is worn on the wrist throughout the day, the manager emphasized that voice commands offer a more practical experience, especially when your hands are full. In addition, Apple’s aim is for users to have the same experience when communicating with Siri, whether from the watch or from the iPhone. The company aims for Siri to be able to access the user’s data and deliver personalized responses consistently across all devices.
One example Clark gives is based on using Siri while shopping. An example of this approach is that the user can request the ingredient list of a recipe on the Apple Watch while browsing the market, and then view the same list on the iPhone with the advantage of a larger screen. Apple states that uninterrupted data transfer and contextual continuity between devices are at the center of the new Siri experience.
However, the fact that there are only devices that are a few years old among the models that are out of support may cause controversy for some users. It is noteworthy that models that are still widely used, such as the Apple Watch Series 8 and the first generation Apple Watch Ultra, will not receive the new version. However, Apple argues that the processing capacity required by new artificial intelligence features is available in newer generation chips.
watchOS 27 is currently in beta for developers. While the public beta version is expected to be released next month, it is stated that the final version will be available in the autumn. With the release of the update, artificial intelligence-supported experiences are expected to become more prominent in the Apple Watch ecosystem. Despite this, the fact that older models will continue to receive security updates will allow existing users to use their devices without any problems for a while longer.