Skip to main content

watchOS 26.2.1 now available for Apple Watch, here’s what’s new

Apple has just released watchOS 26.2.1, a new software update for Apple Watch users. Here’s what the update includes.

watchOS 26.2.1 brings AirTag Precision Finding to Apple Watch

Today Apple launched its long-awaited AirTag 2, which includes a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip for better Precision Finding than the first model.

The timing of today’s watchOS 26.2.1 release is no accident, as the latest Apple Watch software update brings a new feature perfect for the latest AirTag.

Precision Finding for AirTags is now available on Apple Watch for the first time.

It’s available on Apple Watch Series 9 or later, as well as Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later. Unfortunately, no Apple Watch SE models support Precision Finding.

Precision Finding is one of AirTag’s best features, but it previously was available only on iPhone.

With Precision Finding in watchOS 26.2.1, your Apple Watch will use haptic, visual, and audio feedback to guide you with precise directions to your lost AirTag.

If your Apple Watch model isn’t compatible with Precision Finding, you can still use the Watch to help find your AirTag. But the Find Items app in watchOS will only show a map and offer a couple other features, like playing a sound on your AirTag. You won’t get the level of accuracy offered by Precision Finding.

Beyond adding Precision Finding for AirTags, watchOS 26.2.1 also includes bug fixes and performance improvements and is recommended for all Apple Watch users.

Do you expect to use Precision Finding on your Apple Watch? Let us know in the comments.

Best AirTag and Apple Watch accessories

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Comments

Author

Avatar for Ryan Christoffel Ryan Christoffel

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.