Apple Ends WatchOS Support For Several Older Apple Watch Models

Apple announced that watchOS 27 will no longer support several older Apple Watch models, including Series 6, 7, 8, the second-generation SE, and the original Ultra. The company said the decision reflects performance requirements for new AI-focused features such as Siri enhancements and a new tap gesture, which are reserved for newer hardware like Series 9 and later, Ultra 2 and later, and SE 3. While the affected watches will still receive security updates and remain compatible with the latest iPhones, the move underscores Apple’s push to align its wearables with Apple Intelligence and more advanced processing needs. The update is currently in developer beta, with a public beta expected in July and a fall release.