WatchOS 26: One Feature Makes the Upgrade Worth It

A Fresh Take on the Workout App

After using watchOS 26 throughout the summer, I’ve come to appreciate several new features that have made my Apple Watch experience more seamless. While there were some initial glitches, one standout feature has been the complete redesign of the Workout app. It’s fascinating how quickly we adapt to changes, but as watchOS 26 rolls out, it's clear just how outdated the previous version felt.

The new layout places your most frequently used workouts right at your fingertips, making it easier to start a session without navigating through multiple menus. The redesigned interface includes four corner buttons that provide quick access to features like Pacer, Race Route, and Custom Workouts. Additionally, there's a straightforward way to activate Workout Buddy, Apple's AI coach that offers motivational support during your training sessions.

I had the chance to test Workout Buddy during a 15-mile run, and while it wasn't something I'd use for every workout, the improved layout definitely makes the experience more enjoyable.

Enhancements to the Notes App

For those who rely heavily on the Notes app on their iPhone, the addition of notes to the Apple Watch is a welcome improvement. As someone with a memory like a goldfish, I found it incredibly useful to have my notes accessible right on my wrist. Although there are some limitations—such as not being able to edit notes directly from the watch—you can still create new ones using the small keyboard or voice dictation.

This feature adds a level of convenience that was previously missing, making it easier to jot down thoughts or reminders on the go.

Introducing the Sleep Score Feature

One feature that I've been eagerly awaiting is the sleep score introduced in watchOS 26. While this wasn’t available during the beta phase, it’s a long-awaited addition that provides an instant overview of your sleep quality. After using it for a week, I found that Apple tends to be a bit optimistic in its assessments, but it's still a valuable tool for tracking sleep patterns.

This feature complements the existing sleep tracking capabilities of the Apple Watch, offering users a more comprehensive view of their rest and recovery.

New Watch Faces

In addition to these updates, watchOS 26 introduces several new watch faces. My colleague Nick has tested them all and shared his favorites, providing a great resource for anyone looking to personalize their Apple Watch.

Additional Resources

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If you're interested in learning more about the Apple Watch, check out our hands-on review of the Apple Watch Series 11, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 review, and the Apple Watch SE 3 review. These articles offer detailed insights into the latest models and their features.

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