Apple Releases watchOS 27.0 RC With Enhanced AI Features

Apple has rolled out the Release Candidate (RC) version of watchOS 27.0 to Apple Watch users. This update, arriving nine days after the previous beta, introduces significant enhancements to Siri AI, health tracking, fitness coaching, and the Smart Stack feature. The stable release is anticipated on September 15.

The core of the watchOS 27 update lies in its revamped Siri, powered by Apple Intelligence. The new Siri is designed to handle open-ended questions and engage in more natural, multi-turn conversations. Users can, for instance, request post-run recovery stretches and ask follow-up questions directly from their wrist. Furthermore, Siri can now access personal data, such as notes, to retrieve information like driver's license numbers or door codes, reducing the need to frequently check an iPhone.

In terms of health tracking, watchOS 27 expands menstrual health support, offering eligible users cycle deviation reminders related to perimenopause. Running metrics have also been enhanced with new data points on pace, distance, and duration, allowing users to better monitor long-term performance trends.

The Workout Buddy feature receives an upgrade with Spanish language support and personalized motivation and feedback based on a user's fitness history. Users can now utilize Workout Buddy without carrying their iPhone. The user interface has been improved for one-handed operation and quicker access to information. The Smart Stack feature gains enhanced contextual awareness, proactively displaying relevant content based on activity and immediate needs, such as birthday reminders or parking location details.