CUPERTINO, California, Jan 15, 2026, 12:02 (PST)
- Apple rolled out watchOS 26.3 Public Beta 2 to those enrolled in its Apple Watch software testing program
- This beta is included in a broader rollout of 26.3 public test versions spanning Apple devices
- Beta software may be unstable, with certain features potentially encountering legal and regulatory challenges
Apple has rolled out the second public beta of watchOS 26.3 for Apple Watch testers, continuing a software update wave across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV. This batch of public betas also introduces an iPhone feature in the European Union that allows users to forward notifications to non-Apple wearables, which could chip away at the Apple Watch’s edge in that region. 1
Apple releases a public beta as a trial version of its software ahead of the official launch. This allows users to identify bugs and iron out performance glitches on various devices and scenarios before the final version rolls out.
Timing is crucial since software updates serve as one of Apple’s key tools to maintain the watch’s role as a health-and-fitness device rather than just an accessory. When an update goes wrong, issues surface quickly—battery problems, workout tracking errors, or third-party apps malfunctioning.
According to Mac Observer, the public beta is identified by build number 23S5600d and appears to be a modest update, focusing mostly on bug fixes and performance improvements rather than new features. Installation requires the watch to be on a charger with at least 50% battery, and the update must be initiated through the Watch app on the paired iPhone, the report said. 2
On Apple’s developer releases page, watchOS 26.3 beta 2 appears as build 23S5600d, listed with the other 26.3 beta updates across various platforms. 3
watchOS 26, the latest major release, introduced updates focused on daily usability — featuring a redesigned interface and new gestures like flicking your wrist to clear notifications, according to Apple’s watchOS site. 4
The Apple Watch faces stiff competition. Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series, Google’s Pixel Watch, and Garmin’s premium fitness models all push health tracking as a key upgrade. They’re rapidly introducing new sensors and software features to stay ahead.
Beta software carries the usual risks: it can cause crashes, drain your battery faster, and trigger bugs that don’t appear in the official release. Apple’s Beta Software Program asks testers to enroll their devices to try out these builds and provide feedback using Apple’s tools. 5
Legal battles have also influenced Apple Watch features, not just software quality. The U.S. International Trade Commission reviewed potential import restrictions related to a patent dispute with medical monitoring firm Masimo concerning blood-oxygen measurement technology, according to Reuters. 6
Apple hasn’t announced a public release date for watchOS 26.3 yet. The update is still in testing, and its rollout will hinge on what issues Apple uncovers during the upcoming fixes.
