Seeking Clarity on iOS 26 Support for Apple Watch SE Users

[NerdNinja90]

Hello,

I bought the Apple Watch SE (1st generation) in the Fall of 2022. The last update that the Apple Watch received was watchOS 10.6.1. Currently, I am using the iPhone 14 Pro and it's running on the latest version of iOS 18.5. So, here's the issue I am having, I'm still planning to use this Apple Watch but I have been reading it's not compatible with iOS 26. So, therefore, I am skeptical about upgrading to iOS 26 this upcoming September. Would you be able to let me know if iOS 18 will continue to be supported after iOS 26 is released as I would like my Apple Watch to be compatible with my iPhone.​

 

[kitKAC]

I have been reading it's not compatible with iOS 26

Reading where?

 

[jz0309]

Hello,

I bought the Apple Watch SE (1st generation) in the Fall of 2022. The last update that the Apple Watch received was watchOS 10.6.1. Currently, I am using the iPhone 14 Pro and it's running on the latest version of iOS 18.5. So, here's the issue I am having, I'm still planning to use this Apple Watch but I have been reading it's not compatible with iOS 26. So, therefore, I am skeptical about upgrading to iOS 26 this upcoming September. Would you be able to let me know if iOS 18 will continue to be supported after iOS 26 is released as I would like my Apple Watch to be compatible with my iPhone.​

Apple Watch and iPhone compatibility - Apple Support

Find out which versions of iPhone, iOS, and watchOS work with your Apple Watch.

support.apple.com

 

[NoBoMac]

Basically ^this.

Pretty sure don't need to worry about iOS version. SE Gen 1 is compatible with iOS 14 and higher, iPhone 6s and higher. Can't update the WatchOS, can't move the Watch to a phone/iOS combo that does not meet requirements (eg. WatchOS on device is not compatible with older iOS/phone), but should still be usable with an iPhone on iOS 26.

For example, OP setup, Gen 1 can't be upgraded to WatchOS 11, but is still usable with iOS 18 (latest, greatest).

 

[NerdNinja90]

Reading where?

Google AI. I’m assuming it’s a false response.