Apple watchOS 10 system requirements: can it run on your existing Apple Watch?
Apple's latest watch software can run on most older Apple Watch models – from Series 4 onwards.
As unveiled earlier in the year, the latest Apple Watch smartwatch software is watchOS 10. Here’s our guide to the watchOS 10 system requirements.
Following the iPhone 15, Series 9, and Ultra 2 unveiling, it is now available to download, though you will need to install iOS 17 on your iPhone first (you probably have done this already as it’s also fully available). You need to have that on your phone first because the Apple Watch is not a standalone device – it requires your iPhone to run from and so that also needs to be up to date.
Last year’s watchOS 9 finally dropped support for the Series 3, and that carries on this year. Now that this older model has officially been discontinued and replaced by the new Watch SE, we don’t mind so much. Last year, we outlined why we think it’s wrong you can still buy a Series 3, but essentially we think Apple should have discontinued it a while back. Thankfully, Apple got the message, and you can’t purchase the 2017 model anymore.
watchOS 10 compatibility: full list
watchOS 10 runs on exactly the same models as the current watchOS 9 – plus the new Apple Watches too of course. Apple hasn’t dropped support for any this year.
- Apple Watch Series 4
- Apple Watch Series 5
- Apple Watch SE (all versions)
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch Series 7
- Apple Watch Series 8
- Apple Watch Ultra
- Apple Watch Series 9
- Apple Watch Ultra 2
You’ll also need an iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, or later to install watchOS 10 and for that device to run iOS 17 – this matches up with the system requirements for iOS 17 itself.
- Related: The 10 best iOS 17 features
Connor Jewiss
