Want to try the newest watchOS 26 features before the official release? Here’s how to download and install watchOS 26 Public Beta 2 on your compatible Apple Watch, using an iPhone running iOS 26.
watchOS 26 Public Beta 2 Is Here and Anyone With a Compatible Apple Watch Can Try It Out
Apple just released watchOS 26 Public Beta 2, and you don’t need a developer account to try it out. If your Apple Watch is supported and your iPhone is on iOS 26, you can install the update today through the Apple Beta Software Program.
Important: You Can’t Downgrade
Once you install the watchOS 26 beta, there’s no going back to watchOS 11. You’ll be locked into beta updates until the final public release arrives later this year.
Check Apple Watch Compatibility
Make sure your Apple Watch supports watchOS 26. These models are eligible:
- Apple Watch Series 6 and later
- Apple Watch SE (2nd generation and later)
- Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2
If your model isn’t listed above, you won’t see the beta update.
iPhone Must Be Running iOS 26
Your paired iPhone must be updated to iOS 26 Public Beta or Developer Beta before you can install the watchOS 26 beta.
Sign Up for Apple’s Public Beta Program
- On Safari (iPhone or Mac), go to beta.apple.com
- Sign in with your Apple ID
- Enroll your iPhone and Apple Watch in the beta program
Enable watchOS 26 Public Beta on iPhone
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone running iOS 26
- Tap General > Software Update
- Tap Beta Updates
- Select watchOS 26 Public Beta
Download & Install watchOS 26 Public Beta 2
- Go back to General > Software Update
- When watchOS 26 Public Beta 2 appears, tap Update Now
- Place your Apple Watch on the charger
- Make sure it’s connected to Wi-Fi and has at least 50% battery
Wait for the update to finish installing.
Welcome to watchOS 26 Beta!
You’re now running the second public beta of watchOS 26, featuring the smooth Liquid Glass UI, faster performance, and early improvements for what’s to come later this fall.
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