watchOS 26 Improves Notification Dismissal
Apple's latest watchOS update, version 26, introduces a novel one-handed wrist flick gesture for dismissing notifications. This intuitive feature allows users to swiftly dismiss alerts, calls, timers, and alarms with a simple wrist rotation. The technology leverages the Apple Watch's accelerometer, gyroscope, and a machine learning model to accurately interpret the user's movement.
Hardware and Software Limitations
However, this convenient functionality is currently limited to newer Apple Watch models, specifically the Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2. Older models will not support this new gesture-based interaction.
Further Enhancements in watchOS 26
Beyond the new dismissal gesture, watchOS 26 boasts several other enhancements. The user interface adopts Apple's Liquid Glass design, promising a visually refined experience. A new feature called Workout Buddy, powered by Apple Intelligence, offers personalized spoken motivation during workouts. The Workout app itself also receives a redesigned layout and integrates music selection based on user preferences and workout type. Finally, Live Translation is now supported within the Messages app, improving communication capabilities.
Apple is currently offering watchOS 26 for testing through its Developer Program. A public beta release is expected next month, granting broader access to these new features.
1 Image of watchOS 26:
Source: Mac Rumors