Apple just dropped the public beta of watchOS 26, and it’s loaded with fitness and lifestyle upgrades designed to make your workouts smarter and your daily routine more seamless. From personalized coaching to a completely redesigned Workout app, the update signals Apple’s push to keep the Watch at the center of your health and fitness life.
Workout Buddy: AI Coaching on Your Wrist
The standout new feature is Workout Buddy, a tool powered by Apple Intelligence that offers real-time, personalized audio feedback during exercise. Pulling from heart rate, distance, pace, and even your Activity rings, it delivers context-aware coaching prompts—celebrating milestones, nudging you to push harder, or letting you know when you’re on track. The kicker? The audio uses voices from Apple Fitness+ trainers, with options to choose a tone and style that suits you.
This is more than just data—it’s like having a coach in your ear every time you hit the gym, track, or trail.
A Smarter, Sleeker Workout App
The Workout app itself is getting its most dramatic refresh in years. The new layout introduces corner buttons for instant access to Custom Workouts, Pacer mode, Workout Views, and media controls. You can also set workouts to automatically launch a playlist or podcast, with Apple Music making suggestions based on your history and workout type.
Bottom line: it’s faster, smoother, and designed to keep you focused on moving—not fumbling through menus.
More Intelligent Everyday Interactions
Apple’s Smart Stack has leveled up too. With Smart Stack Hints, the Watch now surfaces the right widget at the right time—whether that’s weather updates before a run, or your calendar when you walk into the office. A new wrist flick gesture lets you silence timers or dismiss notifications instantly, and notification volume now auto-adjusts depending on ambient noise.
Even Messages gets an upgrade, with Live Translation for incoming texts and replies, plus sharper smart replies and context-aware prompts (like sending a Check In or quick Apple Cash payment).
Custom Plans in Apple Fitness+
On the fitness service side, Custom Plans are rolling out to Apple Fitness+. These are ready-made, goal-oriented training schedules that adjust to your preferences—whether you’re starting fresh, maintaining a routine, or looking to ramp up intensity. It’s a big step for anyone who wants structure but doesn’t want to build plans from scratch.
The Takeaway
Apple isn’t just fine-tuning the Watch—it’s redefining it as your personal trainer, daily assistant, and translator rolled into one. With watchOS 26, the message is clear: the Apple Watch isn’t just a wearable, it’s a fitness lifestyle device that adapts to you.
