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Apple is about to unveil its new operating system updates. These include watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and the new HomePod software. A new source has now revealed which devices will receive the updates. There's good news for Apple Watch, Apple TV, and HomePod users: Those who were on board last year will likely not be left out this year either.
Apple is planning major changes to its entire software portfolio in 2025. The new versions of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 will not only bring new features but also a revised design. All systems are to be visually coordinated and receive uniform, year-specific branding. There is also speculation about a new homeOS 26. This platform could be specifically designed for smart home devices in the future. The HomePod will also receive a new software version, but due to the lack of a screen, no UI redesign is planned. Previous reports have already indicated that some older iPhone, iPad, and Mac models will no longer be supported this year. The situation is different for Apple Watch, Apple TV, and HomePod, where full compatibility is to be maintained.
watchOS 26: These Apple Watch models are included
According to current information from MacRumors, watchOS 26 will run on all devices that have already received watchOS 10. This affects the following models:
- Apple Watch Series 10
- Apple Watch Series 9
- Apple Watch Series 8
- Apple Watch Series 7
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch Ultra (1st generation)
- Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Apple Watch SE (2nd generation)
This means: If you use one of these Apple Watches, you'll also get the upcoming update. It's very likely that while the new design will be available to everyone, certain features will only work on newer models. This is common practice at Apple and often serves to make new hardware more attractive.
tvOS 26: Apple TV remains fully compatible
Compatibility remains unchanged for Apple TVs as well. tvOS 26 will run on all devices that also received tvOS 17:
- Apple TV 4K (1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation)
- Apple TV HD
This means all current Apple TV models remain in the running. Users don't have to buy new hardware to receive the next update. Exactly what new features tvOS 26 will bring isn't yet known. What is certain, however, is that, like the other systems, it will be visually redesigned.
HomePod 26: All models remain
There are no exclusions for HomePod either. The new software version will run on all currently supported devices:
- HomePod (1st and 2nd generation)
- HomePod mini
Since the HomePod doesn't have a screen, there won't be a visual redesign. However, the software will be updated, presumably with improvements in its interoperability with other Apple devices, such as Siri, AirPlay, or HomeKit.
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watchOS 26, tvOS 26 and HomePod 26: You stay with us
Things are looking good for Apple Watch, Apple TV, and HomePod users this year. All models that received updates last year will remain compatible with the new versions of watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and HomePod 26. The new design is expected to be available on all devices, although Apple will likely reserve some new features for newer models. So, if you already use one of these Apple devices, don't worry—you're stuck with it. A hardware upgrade isn't necessary this year, at least not for the software. (Image: Shutterstock / The Stock Library)
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- iOS 26: What's changing with the new iPhone update
- watchOS 26: What the rumors say about the update
- visionOS 26: What Apple has planned for the Vision Pro
