Apple Drops Software Support for Older Apple Watch Models in watchOS 27 Update
Apple announced that watchOS 27 will only support Apple Watches with S9 and S10 chips, dropping support for the SE (2nd gen), Series 6, 7, 8, and original Ultra models. The decision means affected devices will no longer receive major software updates or access to new AI-powered features, despite some models being only a few years old. The move has frustrated users who expected longer support periods and raises questions about Apple's sustainability commitments versus its upgrade incentives.
Apple revealed at its Worldwide Developers Conference that the upcoming watchOS 27 update will discontinue support for five older Apple Watch models, including the SE (2nd gen), Series 6, 7, 8, and original Ultra. Only watches equipped with S9 and S10 chips will be compatible with the new software, which includes enhanced Siri capabilities, new gesture controls, and design refinements. The decision has sparked frustration among users, particularly those who purchased first-generation Ultra models at $799.99 in September 2022, as they will receive less than four years of major software support—shorter than Apple's typical six-year support window. Apple has not explicitly explained the technical reasoning for the cutoff, though reports suggest it relates to hardware requirements for AI integration. The announcement has generated significant backlash on social media, with users questioning whether the company is prioritizing upgrade cycles over sustainability and device longevity.
What's missing
The exact technical specifications and processing power differences between the S8/S9 chips and earlier generations that necessitate the watchOS 27 cutoff are not detailed. Additionally, Apple's official statement or explanation for the support decision is not directly quoted or linked.
What different sources said
- New York PostRight
5 Apple products just became obsolete — leaving users without tech support or updates
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