If you tuned into Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) keynote in June, the standout features of watchOS 26 likely caught your attention. The AI-powered Workout Buddy and the Liquid Glass redesign were the stars of the show. However, beneath these headline features lies a treasure trove of lesser-known updates that significantly enhance the Apple Watch experience. This article explores eight hidden gems in watchOS 26 that you might not have noticed, but are definitely worth your attention.
Configurable Widgets: A New Level of Personalization
The Smart Stack on your Apple Watch has always been a convenient feature, but watchOS 26 takes it to a new level. Users now have more options to customize their Smart Stack, allowing them to drill down into individual apps and decide which aspects should appear as prompts. For instance, you can choose to display home electricity usage or suggested controls in the Home app. This customization extends beyond Apple’s native apps to include third-party applications, resulting in a more personalized and functional Smart Stack.
Live Listen Transcription: Accessibility Enhanced
Live Listen has been a valuable feature for those who are deaf or hard of hearing, and watchOS 26 enhances its utility by integrating it with the Apple Watch. Previously, transcriptions of conversations picked up by your iPhone were displayed on the phone itself. Now, these transcriptions can be sent directly to your Apple Watch, allowing users to follow conversations in real-time on their wrists. This feature not only improves accessibility but also offers a discreet way to stay engaged in conversations.
Redesigned Watch Face Gallery: Easier Customization
Choosing the perfect watch face can be overwhelming, given the myriad of options available. With watchOS 26, Apple aims to simplify this process through a redesigned watch face gallery. Faces are now organized into categories and collections such as Health and Fitness, Photos, and Data Rich, making it easier to find and select the ideal watch face. This reorganization reduces the time spent scrolling and enhances the customization experience for users.
Featured Photos Shuffle: Display Your Memories
The Photos face on the Apple Watch has always been a popular choice for displaying favorite pictures. In watchOS 26, this feature gets a boost with the ability to shuffle through featured photos. Users can either let their Watch automatically select images or manually pick their favorites. This new option provides a fresh way to showcase cherished memories directly on your wrist.
Automatic Volume Adjustment: Notifications Without Disruption
Receiving loud alerts at inopportune moments can be disruptive, leading many users to silence their Apple Watches. However, watchOS 26 introduces a smart volume feature that adjusts the volume of notifications based on your surroundings. Whether you’re in a quiet library or a bustling marketplace, your Watch will automatically modulate the volume to ensure you stay informed without disturbing those around you. This feature applies to incoming calls, notifications, and Siri interactions, enhancing the overall user experience.
Notes App: A Handy Addition
The arrival of the Notes app on the Apple Watch with watchOS 26 is a welcome addition for many users. While viewing existing notes is the most obvious use, the app also allows for the creation of new notes directly from the Watch. Users can launch the app or use Siri to dictate a new note, making it a convenient tool for capturing important information on the go.
Smart Actions: Efficiency at Your Fingertips
Apple’s machine learning technology continues to evolve, and watchOS 26 leverages it to introduce smart actions that streamline daily tasks. In the Messages app, for example, the Watch can suggest sharing your location if a friend asks where you are. These smart actions are integrated into the Smart Stack and appear at opportune moments, such as suggesting a workout start time based on your routine or prompting the use of Backtrack when you’re off the grid.
Suggested Music and Podcasts: Enhance Your Workout
Music and podcasts can be powerful motivators during workouts, and watchOS 26 makes it easier to access the right content. The redesigned workout screen includes a new button that allows Apple Music to select an appropriate playlist for your session. Alternatively, users can choose their own media, with suggested playlists based on past listening habits. This feature ensures that users have the perfect soundtrack to accompany their fitness goals.
As Apple continues to innovate, watchOS 26 exemplifies the company’s commitment to enhancing user experience through thoughtful and practical updates. These hidden features not only add convenience but also demonstrate Apple’s dedication to accessibility, personalization, and user engagement. As users explore these new capabilities, the Apple Watch becomes an even more integral part of their daily lives.