If a third-party app vanished from your Apple Watch after updating to watchOS 27, its developer most likely hasn’t added 64-bit support. Apple’s support document, published September 14, says such an app “won’t appear on your Apple Watch after you update to watchOS 27,” and that it will “again appear” once the developer updates it.
So the app isn’t gone for good. Your job is to install the fixed version when it arrives.
Why watchOS 27 hides some apps
watchOS 27 arrived on September 14 alongside iOS 27, and Apple’s explanation for the change is one sentence: “With watchOS 27, all apps are required to include 64-bit support to ensure the best performance.” It applies to every watch running watchOS 27, including a new Series 12 or Ultra 4, and it affects only third-party apps.
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Developers had notice. On July 22, 2025, Apple told them that “beginning April 2026, watchOS apps uploaded to App Store Connect must also include 64-bit support.” An app that disappears now is one whose developer hasn’t shipped a 64-bit version.
Check for app updates
The missing app may already have an update waiting. Check from either device.
On your iPhone:
- Open the App Store.
- Tap the My Account button or your photo at the top of the screen.
- Tap App Updates, then tap Update next to the app, or tap Update All.
On your Apple Watch:
- Open the App Store and scroll to the bottom.
- Tap Account, then tap Updates.
- Tap Update next to the app, or tap Update All.
To stop checking by hand, open Settings on the watch, tap App Store and turn on Automatic Updates. The same setting is in the Apple Watch app on iPhone under My Watch > App Store. New versions then download automatically when they’re available.
If there’s no update yet
- Leave the iPhone app installed. Apple’s user guide says removing an app from your iPhone also deletes it from Apple Watch, and reinstalling won’t add 64-bit support.
- Ask the developer. Only the developer can add 64-bit support. If an app you rely on hasn’t been updated in a long time, ask whether a watchOS 27 version is planned.
Missing one of Apple’s own apps instead? The 64-bit rule covers third-party apps only. If you removed a built-in app, Apple’s user guide says you can download it again from the App Store on your iPhone or Apple Watch.
