Apple watches now outdated — leaving users without assistance

Apple’s Upcoming watchOS Update to Retire Older Models

Your Apple Watch might keep track of your steps, but some users are facing the reality that their devices could soon be outdated.

Nothing punctures the feeling of having a cutting-edge Apple product quite like the announcement of a new software update. During this year’s Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple disclosed that the soon-to-be-released watchOS 27 will discontinue support for several older models, such as the SE (2nd generation), Series 6, 7, 8, and the original Ultra.

Only newer watch models equipped with Apple’s S9 and S10 chips will be able to run the latest software. As a result, those with unsupported devices will miss out on AI-driven features and future updates. It’s a bit frustrating for many, particularly since some of these watches were purchased not long ago.

The new watchOS 27 is set to enhance Siri, allowing users to engage with the assistant more naturally, making it capable of handling open-ended questions and brainstorming tasks. Additionally, this update will introduce new tap gestures for better navigation of widgets, a revamped app grid, and various design enhancements. The overarching aim appears to be making the Apple Watch more user-friendly and efficient.

This move has triggered dissatisfaction among users. Historically, Apple supported its watches for about six years with major updates. However, for owners of the first-gen Apple Watch Ultra, originally priced at $799.99, support will likely last under four years.

Apple hasn’t given a clear explanation for this change, which many suspect relates to the upgrade to the S9 chip featured in the new watch series. This aligns with Apple’s larger vision that focuses on enhancing integration with AI technologies.

The decision has led to further confusion as Apple’s website initially indicated that even the three-year-old Series 9 might be left out of updates. This mistake was corrected after users found they could actually install a test version of watchOS 27, leaving just five older models officially unsupported.

For many Apple fans, however, this isn’t just about technology; it’s also about timing. A Reddit thread filled quickly with displeased users who pointed out that some of these affected watches were only a couple of years old and still functioning well.

“Unfortunately, my beloved SE 2 didn’t survive Apple’s ‘Night of the Long Knives,’ nor did my mom’s Series 8,” lamented one user. “I was lucky to snag them for a good price right after their launch in 2022, or I’d be really upset.”

Some users expressed outrage, suggesting that Apple is primarily motivated by profit. Others raised concerns about the company’s sustainability messaging, arguing that pushing customers to upgrade contradicts their environmental commitments.

Another user mentioned, “I still use my Apple Watch 4 for sleep tracking and workouts. It only receives security updates now, but it performs great.” They added, “While I understand the frustration, your device still works fine. I wouldn’t want Apple to bog it down with ineffective updates.”