Will iOS 17 public beta work with watchOS 9.5?

[svoltmer]

I don't want to have to update my Apple Watch to watchOS 10 just to use the iOS 17 public beta on my iPhone. Is that required for them to connect?

 

[StumpyBloke]

No it’s not required. WatchOS 10 needs iOS 17 but not vice-versa.

 

[Devyn89]

Nope it’s fine, otherwise those with series 3 watches (some of which would could have been purchased last summer) they would stop working if someone had upgraded to iOS 16 as the series 3 is “stuck” on watchOS 8. watchOS needs certain iOS versions to function but iOS can work with any watchOS.

 

[gwhizkids]

Just don't accidentally update your Watch to WatchOS 10 during the beta period. If you do, you're stuck on WatchOS 10 as there is no way to downgrade.