watchOS 26 Public Beta 3 Now Available: How to Install on Your Apple Watch

Apple has released watchOS 26 Public Beta 3, bringing refinements and improvements first seen in Developer Beta 6. If you have a compatible Apple Watch and an iPhone running iOS 26, you can now test the latest pre-release features ahead of the official launch.

What’s New in watchOS 26 Public Beta 3?

While Apple’s official release notes are brief, early testers have highlighted several updates:

• Performance optimizations for smoother navigation and faster app launches
• Enhanced Liquid Glass UI effects on the Watch face and system menus
• Bug fixes from Public Beta 2, including improved notifications and Health app stability
• Refinements to AirPods and workout integrations, reflecting changes introduced in Developer Beta 6

This beta focuses on fine-tuning the system, laying the groundwork for larger feature rollouts in later betas.

Apple Watch Compatibility

To install watchOS 26 Public Beta 3, your device must be supported:

• Apple Watch Series 6 and later
• Apple Watch SE (2nd generation and later)
• Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2

If your Apple Watch is older than these models, the beta update will not appear.

Installing watchOS 26 Public Beta 3

Before installing, ensure your iPhone is running iOS 26 Public Beta or Developer Beta. Then follow these steps:

1. Sign in to the Apple Beta Software Program at beta.apple.com and enroll both your iPhone and Apple Watch.
2. Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
3. Navigate to General > Software Update > Beta Updates.
4. Select watchOS 26 Public Beta.
5. Tap Download & Install, ensuring your Apple Watch has at least 50% battery and is on the charger.
6. Wait for the update to complete , your Apple Watch will restart automatically.

Should You Try Public Beta 3?

• Go for it if you want early access to new features and are comfortable with minor bugs or app glitches.
• Hold off if you rely on your Apple Watch for daily activities and prefer a fully stable experience.

Final Thoughts

watchOS 26 Public Beta 3 continues Apple’s steady refinement of the system, improving performance and polishing the UI. It’s a solid option for beta testers looking to explore new features before the official fall release.