watchOS 26 beta 3 is now available for developers! Here’s how to download and install the latest Apple Watch beta update and what to expect during setup.
watchOS 26 Beta 3 Now Available, Here’s How to Install It
Apple just dropped watchOS 26 beta 3, and if you’re rocking an Apple Watch and love living on the edge (aka testing early software), this one’s for you.
Packed with bug fixes, performance improvements, and a better glimpse into what watchOS 26 is shaping up to be, beta 3 is now available for download over the air.
How to Install watchOS 26 Beta 3 on Your Apple Watch
Before you start:
Make sure your iPhone is running iOS 26 beta, otherwise, the watchOS 26 beta update won’t show up. If this is your first time, installing watchOS 26 beta, head here for complete instructions.
Here’s how to install it:
- Place your Apple Watch on its charger and keep it there
- Ensure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi
- Open the Watch app > General > Software Update
- Tap Update Now and let it roll
Pro tip: Install overnight, your Apple Watch is pretty much unusable during installation.
Read This Before Updating
Testing watchOS 26 beta 3 is exciting, but risky. Why?
- You can’t downgrade once you install a beta
- Things will break (at least sometimes)
- Your Apple Watch may randomly misbehave
Suggested: Hermès Apple Watch Users: Do NOT Install watchOS 26 Beta 2
If you’re still brave enough, go for it, just don’t install it on your primary Apple Watch if you’re not okay with bugs.
Also, while this is a developer beta, you don’t need to pay anything unless you’re publishing apps. Apple lets anyone test betas for free.
What’s New in watchOS 26 Beta 3?
While there’s no full changelog yet, beta 3 focuses on performance, bug fixes, and polishing up features like the all-new Liquid Glass UI.
When Will Public Beta Drop?
Apple is expected to release the first public beta of watchOS 26 soon (possibly this July). And guess what? It’s identical to the developer beta, just released a bit later.
Final Thoughts
If you’re into early access, watchOS 26 beta 3 is a solid way to preview Apple’s upcoming Watch experience. It’s smoother, snappier, and ready for testing. Just proceed with caution and a full battery.
Comments