In just a few days, Apple will unveil its big new software releases across its full product lineup. And now, a leaker has shared what to expect from device compatibility across watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and HomePod 26.
Apple is expected to ship major UI redesigns across its entire lineup of new software this year.
The fresh looks will also come with a new year-based branding scheme.
Weāre expecting a cohesive new design, plus a host of new features, across the following:
These updates might be joined by the homeOS 26 release. Thereās also HomePod 26 software coming, but without a screen thereās no need for a new UI.
Today as reported by MacRumors, we have learned what to expect from device compatibility for watchOS, tvOS, and HomePod software.
Previous reports have indicated that several iPhone, iPad, and Mac models will not support Appleās latest software updates. Instead, theyāll be stuck on last yearās version.
But thereās better news for Apple Watch, Apple TV, and HomePod owners.
Per MacRumorsā source, all hardware compatible with last yearās software updates will also support this yearās new versions.
Hereās the full list of supported devices:
Apple Watch: compatibility with watchOS 26
Apple TV: compatibility with tvOS 26
HomePod: compatibility with HomePod 26
If these reports prove true, itās good to see that no one will need to upgrade their hardware in order to get the latest software.
That said, itās likely Apple will offer certain features exclusively for newer devices. That has become common practice with its software updates.
At a minimum though, the new UI design should be available to all people who are able to run Appleās current OS versions.
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Ryan got his start in journalism as an Editor at MacStories, where he worked for four years covering Apple news, writing app reviews, and more. For two years he co-hosted the Adapt podcast on Relay FM, which focused entirely on the iPad. As a result, it should come as no surprise that his favorite Apple device is the iPad Pro.