Compatible devices watchOS 9: these models will probably get the update
Every September, when Apple releases the major updates, there are always some models that drop out because they are simply too old. Whether it's iOS, macOS or iPadOS, Apple will eventually stop offering updates for older devices. Usually models fall off after about 5 to 7 years. For example, there are expected to be two devices that are not suitable for iOS 16. With the Apple Watch, there have also been rumors about which models are suitable for watchOS 9. In the past it has happened twice that Apple dropped devices at a new watchOS update.
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently predicted that Apple will discontinue the Apple Watch Series 3 at the end of 2022. Apple released this model in 2017 and is still selling it at the time of writing, but is already getting quite jaded. The design is somewhat outdated, the chip is slow and the screen is a lot smaller. The range of dials is therefore limited. You should also miss important health functions that have been introduced in recent years on this model. According to Ming-Chi Kuo, this model cannot meet the requirements of watchOS 9, so it seems that the Apple Watch Series 3 will no longer receive an update to watchOS 9.
That would mean these Apple Watch models are watchOS 9 compatible:
- Apple Watch Series 4
- Apple Watch Series 5
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch Series 7
- Apple Watch SE
- Apple Watch Series 8 (expected)
- Apple Watch SE 2022 (expected)
- Apple Watch Rugged (Sport version; expected)
So all current models seem suitable, with the exception of the Apple Watch Series 3, which is stuck on watchOS 8. That does not mean that this model will no longer receive updates at all. Apple can still release important security updates for watchOS 8, should the need arise. You can therefore continue to use this model, but you will probably no longer benefit from new functions.
Also keep in mind that watchOS 9 will most likely require an iPhone with iOS 16. So if you have an older iPhone that will be discontinued this year, you will still not be able to update your Apple Watch to watchOS 9, even if your Apple Watch is compatible.
In addition to the current models , watchOS 9 also appears for the upcoming Apple Watch models. There are even expected to be three this year: the Apple Watch Series 8, the Apple Watch SE 2022 and an extra sturdy sports version (also called Apple Watch Rugged). The definitive answer as to which Apple Watch models are suitable for watchOS 9 will be announced during WWDC 2022. Apple will hold its annual presentation on Monday, June 6, 2022.