This year, Apple plans to release a new version of the operating system for the Apple Watch — watchOS 12 , which will receive some changes in the interface design, but not as large-scale redesign as expected in iOS 19 for the iPhone. According to Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman, the watch will only receive individual interface updates, including new controls, but without a complete redesign.
In iOS 19, Apple plans to use visionOS design elements - transparency, glass effect, soft backlighting, rounded icons and buttons. Some of these solutions may also appear in watchOS, but gradually. According to previous reports, Apple is testing new home screen design options, a more "floating" interface style, as well as updated menus and buttons.
In addition to the visual changes, Apple is also preparing new features for the watch that will be promoted under the Apple Intelligence brand — AI capabilities based on large language models. But unlike the iPhone, the Apple Watch will not have full support for this feature due to limited memory. Instead, the watch will use the power of the iPhone to work with AI.
Gurman expects the watchOS 12 update to be shown at WWDC 2025, and the release should be expected in the fall along with other Apple systems.