Apple has started rolling out watchOS 27 Developer Beta 3 for developers. The update is now available for supported Apple Watch models through the Software Update section in the Watch app.
Since this is still a developer beta, it is mainly meant for testing apps, checking compatibility, and trying upcoming watchOS 27 features before the public release. Users should install it only on a secondary Apple Watch if possible, as beta software can include bugs and battery issues.
How to Update
You can install watchOS 27 Developer Beta 3 from your paired iPhone by following these steps:
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
- Go to General.
- Tap Software Update.
- Select Beta Updates.
- Choose watchOS 27 Developer Beta.
- Go back and wait for the new beta to appear.
- Tap Download and Install.
Before installing, make sure your Apple Watch has at least 50 percent battery and is placed on its charger. Your iPhone should also stay connected to Wi-Fi during the update.
All the Changes
Apple has not shared a long list of new beta-specific changes for this build yet. Developer Beta 3 appears to focus on bug fixes, smoother performance, and early improvements before the public beta rollout.
Here are the expected areas of improvement:
- Performance improvements: Apple may have made the system feel smoother while opening apps, moving through menus, and using widgets.
- Bug fixes: This beta likely fixes issues reported in the earlier watchOS 27 developer betas, including small UI glitches and app crashes.
- Battery and stability updates: Beta 3 may improve battery usage and background performance, though battery life can still vary during the testing period.
- Siri AI testing: watchOS 27 brings Apple’s newer Siri AI experience to Apple Watch, and this beta may include early improvements for supported devices.
- Smart Stack and widget updates: Apple continues to improve widgets in the Smart Stack, including better timing and more relevant suggestions.
- Developer app testing: Developers can use this beta to test their apps, widgets, complications, and Apple Watch features before the final watchOS 27 release.
Since this is a beta release, some features may not work properly on all devices. Apple can also add, remove, or adjust features before the stable version arrives later this year.
If you’ve already installed the update, let us know your experience in the comments.
