Skip to main content

watchOS 26.4 available now for Apple Watch, here’s what’s new

Apple has just released watchOS 26.4, the latest software update for Apple Watch. Here’s what’s new.

watchOS 26.4 updates the Workout app, adds new emoji, and fixes bugs

Today Apple launched its latest wave of new software releases for users, headlined by iOS 26.4.

If you’re an Apple Watch user, watchOS 26.4 comes with a few small updates.

In watchOS 26, Apple redesigned the Workout app for Watch users. The app’s overhaul brought concerns and complaints from some users.

While watchOS 26.4 doesn’t revert to the old design at all, it does bring one change that might help address some negative feedback.

Now, when you’re ready to start exercising, you can tap the workout type’s icon to instantly start the workout. Since the workout icon is large and fills much of the screen when in view, this should make it a little more convenient to kickoff a workout. I imagine Apple is making the change in response to users assuming that icon was a start button, even though it was previously a visual aid only.

Additionally, watchOS 26.4 adds support for eight new emojis to the emoji keyboard. These include Ballet Dancer, Distorted Face, Fight Cloud, and more.

Finally, the new update has bug fixes that will hopefully lead to a smoother Apple Watch experience.

Does the Workout app change make much of a difference to you, or are there other updates you hope to see implemented? Let us know in the comments.

Best Apple Watch and iPhone 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.