The arrival of watchOS 26 this fall brings with it a series of optimizations for the Apple Watch. Among the most notable is the introduction of a new wrist gesture. This gesture adds to the already familiar “double-tap” function for managing notifications, expanding the control options. However, it will only be available for the latest models of Apple’s smartwatch.
Apple explained that this wrist gesture allows users to interact with incoming notifications in a simple and unobtrusive way. For example, when you raise your wrist to check a notification but aren’t ready to respond, a quick flick of the wrist dismisses it. This same action can also be used to dismiss incoming calls, silence timers and alarms, and return to the main watch face.
Apple Watch is compatible with watchOS 26 wrist gestures
This innovative wrist gesture feature will not be available on all Apple Watch models that support watchOS 26.
Apple has confirmed that this specific feature is only supported on the following devices:
- Apple Watch Series 9
- Apple Watch Series 10
- Apple Watch Ultra 2
Interestingly, these are the same models that already support the “double tap” feature, suggesting that the processing power and advanced sensors of these newer generations are key to making this new gesture work.
watchOS 26: Beyond the Wrist Gesture
In addition to this dedicated feature, watchOS 26 introduces a more refined operating system, with a particular focus on fitness and a refreshed design. The graphical interface has been completely redesigned, adopting the “Liquid Glass” material that seeks visual consistency across the entire Apple ecosystem, from iOS to watchOS. This translates into menus with transparency effects, more oval buttons, and pop-up windows with rounded corners, evoking a more elegant and formal aesthetic.
Personalization also gets a significant boost, with lock screen options and the ability to add third-party widgets to Control Center. Additionally, workout functionality is enhanced with the introduction of “Workout Buddy,” a new assistant that provides real-time progress data and guidance to help users achieve their fitness goals.
With a new interface design, customization, and the new wrist gesture, watchOS 26 has been transformed. It’s currently available in developer beta, with the public beta expected to launch in July,** with the final version available to all users by late fall.
