If you own an Apple Watch from the last few years, you are about to get a significant health upgrade without buying a new device. Apple has announced that several new health-tracking features, first introduced with its latest watches, are coming to older models through a free software update next week.
The update, called watchOS 26, will be released on September 15. It will bring new hypertension notifications, a sleep score feature, and other tools to a wide range of existing watches.
One of the most anticipated features is the ability to notify users of potential high blood pressure. An algorithm then reviews this data over a 30-day period. If it detects signs of hypertension, it will send the user a notification advising them to consult with a doctor. Apple says it expects to get clearance from the FDA and other global regulators this month. The feature is planned to roll out in over 150 countries and regions.
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The new update also expands the availability of the Sleep Score feature. It was previously thought to be limited to the newest Watch Series 11, but it will now be available on the Watch Series 6 and all later models. This includes all versions of the Watch Ultra and the second-generation Watch SE or newer.
The Sleep Score uses data from multiple sensors, including those tracking heart rate, wrist temperature, blood oxygen, and breathing, to give you a rating on how well you slept. To use it, you will need an iPhone 11 or a more recent model.
Alongside these health tools, watchOS 26 will also bring other previously announced features to older watches, such as live translation and the new double-pinch gesture for controlling the watch without touching the screen. These will be available for the Watch Series 9, Watch Ultra 2, and newer models.