\The next version of watchOS for Apple, version 26, allows users to include third-party widgets in the Control Center. At Apple’s WWDC in June 2025, this feature is supposed to be announced with an expected release in September 2025
What’s the big change?
Imagine that any favorite apps or devices like Spotify and Strava, as well as buttons for your smart home, would appear with Apple’s standard ones in Control Center. This is why watchOS 26 focuses on improving the Apple Watch.
Why it matters to you
They are not simply trying to make their logo look better; it’s mostly about improving speed and making things more convenient. less fumbling and faster results are possible with one button access to your chosen apps. To illustrate, you can engage in workouts, start tracking your runs, or secure your house without having to go through different menus.
How it works
As reported by 9to5Mac, developers are now allowed to “add their own widgets to the Control Center just like other controls”. The dashboard is expected to include both quick action buttons and a few pieces of information.
Which apps can use it
There isn’t anything confirmed as of now, but imagine being able to hydrate your body, lock your house doors, or shift to your favorite music from Spotify with a single touch. An app that is able to bring up quick actions can be part of the process.
Customizing options on iPhone
The iPhone’s Watch app will let you organize, add, or remove items in your Control Center in watchOS 26, rather than holding the watch like you have to today.
Control Center vs. complications
Control Center widgets let you perform activities at once, unlike the smaller elements used on a watch face (complications). They are like fast access drawers compared to sustained information in full sight.
Release date & beta access
The Apple Developer Conference (WWDC) expected to announce on June 9 will be followed by beta releases for developers and the public by the summer of every year. The latest version of watchOS should come out alongside Apple’s new Watch hardware in September 2025
Device compatibility
All Series 6, SE 2, Series 7–10, and Ultra Watch models will run the new watchOS 26, which is satisfying news for those who own the latest Apple Watch models.
Design refresh in watchOS 26
Together with this new feature, Apple is giving all its platforms a visionOS-inspired redesign, by highlighting glass-like transparency and strong typography to make them look unified.
Analogy: Control Center as your personal command deck
Since your watch operates like a spaceship, Control Center is the place you use for commands. Apple had made upgrading the thrusters expensive for users for many years. With watchOS 26, you now easily add powerful modules that give you extra security, shielding, or navigation options.
How to prepare now
- Maintain your watch up to date by updating software before the beta releases are ready.
- Look for changes in third-party programs that will be ready for watchOS 26.
- Be sure to back up your iPhone and Watch before you install a beta.
Final thoughts
This straightforward improvement brings a huge improvement. For years, Control Center was fixed in its old ways, but watchOS 26 fixes this and lets everyone customise it. Such a simple move has the potential to be very valuable every day.
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