New Apple Watch Series 12 and watchOS 27: Key Rumors and Expected Features

As we approach the second half of 2026, excitement is building around the next-generation Apple Watch lineup and the accompanying watchOS 27 software update. While detailed leaks remain scarce, a handful of credible rumors have emerged—from a possible Touch ID sensor to enhanced satellite capabilities and a new chipset. Below, we break down the most anticipated hardware and software changes in a Q&A format, drawing on leaked code, analyst predictions, and industry trends.

When will the Apple Watch Series 12 and watchOS 27 be released?

Apple typically unveils its new watch hardware alongside the iPhone in September. The Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 are expected to follow this pattern. For watchOS 27, the timeline is more defined: Apple will preview the update during the WWDC 2026 keynote on Monday, June 8. A developer beta should land immediately after the announcement, followed by a public beta in July. The final, stable version of watchOS 27 is slated for a wide release in September, coinciding with the new watch models. Notably, a new Apple Watch SE is not anticipated this year—the SE was refreshed in 2025, and Apple typically waits two to three years between updates for that budget-friendly line.

New Apple Watch Series 12 and watchOS 27: Key Rumors and Expected Features — Source: www.macrumors.com

Is Touch ID finally coming to the Apple Watch?

According to internal Apple software code that surfaced last year, Touch ID may be integrated into the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4. The fingerprint sensor would likely be embedded in the side button, letting users unlock their watch without typing a passcode. However, this rumor should be taken with caution—the code does not guarantee Apple will implement the feature this year or ever. Reputable sources like Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and analyst Ming‑Chi Kuo have not corroborated the Touch ID claim. Until official confirmation arrives, consider this a possibility rather than a certainty.

What kind of new chip will the Series 12 use?

After a one‑year hiatus during which the Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3 all reused the S10 chip, leaked Apple code indicates that the Series 12 and Ultra 4 will receive a new processor. Whether it is branded as S11 or S12 remains unclear, but performance gains are expected regardless. A faster chip could enable smoother animations, quicker app launches, and support for more demanding watchOS features—particularly those tied to Apple Intelligence and real‑time health monitoring.

What new watch faces will watchOS 27 bring?

watchOS 27 is rumored to introduce several fresh watch faces, including a variant of the popular Modular Ultra face that is currently exclusive to the Apple Watch Ultra. Modular Ultra is prized for its dense, customizable information display—think multiple complications for fitness, weather, and calendar events. Bringing a similar face to the standard Series 12 would give non‑Ultra users more flexibility. Additionally, Apple typically unveils at least one or two entirely new faces each year, so watchOS 27 could include fresh artistic or minimalist options that take advantage of the larger, always‑on display.

What Apple Intelligence features will watchOS 27 introduce?

On watchOS 26, Apple Intelligence features such as Workout Buddy, Live Translation in Messages, and Notification Summaries became available on the Watch when paired with an iPhone 15 Pro or newer. When Apple announced the dates for WWDC 2026, it promised “AI advancements” across its platforms. It is reasonable to assume that watchOS 27 will expand Apple Intelligence capabilities—potentially with smarter exercise coaching, enhanced contextual suggestions, or more proactive health alerts. Because these features rely on the iPhone’s on‑device processing, you will likely still need an iPhone 15 Pro or later to access them. Expect more details during the WWDC keynote.

Will the Apple Watch gain new satellite features in watchOS 27?

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 already includes built‑in satellite connectivity, supporting Emergency SOS, Find My, and Messages via satellite without an iPhone. Looking ahead, iOS 27 is reported to bring up to five new satellite functions, and at least two are expected to extend to watchOS 27: Apple Maps via satellite (for offline navigation) and Photos support for Messages via satellite. The timeline gains relevance from Amazon’s recent announcement to acquire Globalstar—the satellite company powering Apple’s current features. While the acquisition could affect long‑term partnership terms, Apple’s contracts usually cover existing hardware, so satellite functionality on Ultra 4 should proceed as planned.

Why won’t we see a new Apple Watch SE this year?

Apple refreshed the Apple Watch SE last year (2025), and the company’s typical update cycle for this entry‑level model spans two to three years. Introducing a new SE in 2026 would break that pattern and risk diluting sales of the more expensive Series and Ultra lines. Instead, Apple is likely to focus its 2026 hardware efforts on the Series 12 and Ultra 4, reserving the SE for a later refresh—possibly in 2028. This strategy allows Apple to keep the SE as an affordable option without constantly updating its design or internals, while reserving the latest innovations for flagship models. For now, the current SE remains a solid choice for those who want Apple Watch basics at a lower price.