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Apple is said to be getting ready for a simple software update for the Apple Watch this year. The company is likely to make some small improvements and enhancements with watchOS 27, but a new article mentions that some of the bigger health features may take longer to be available. The update is aimed at improving what already exists instead of launching many new features. More information about Apple's health plans is starting to come out as the announcement is expected next month. In the latest Power On newsletter by Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, it is mentioned that watchOS 27 will make heart-rate tracking better on the Apple Watch. Although the writer did not give specific details, he noted that this upcoming update will upgrade the current feature, aligning with Apple's overall goal of better stability, performance, and small enhancements.
Gurman also stated that Apple's proposed AI health guidance tools might not be included in the first release of watchOS 27. Known internally as Project Mulberry, this project aims to develop a system that interprets data from Apple Health to provide personalized health insights for users. Previous news has indicated that the service might also use camera input to offer suggestions during exercise sessions.
According to Gurman, Apple has scaled back this initiative after some changes within the team that manages health products. This shift means some health features that were planned might be delayed for a later update of iOS 27 instead of being available right away. While Gurman did not mention a specific timeline, the report indicates that these features could come in a software update following the initial iOS 27 release. The tech company from Cupertino is also believed to be working on a new version of its Health app. Earlier information suggested that the updated app and the AI coaching tools were being developed together to enhance the company's health offerings. Though the new app might still launch with iOS 27, Gurman’s latest report suggests the AI coaching features may require additional time before they are widely available. In addition to the health features, watchOS 27 is expected to be a rather minor update. Gurman mentioned that Apple is focusing on stability, performance, and smaller improvements throughout the operating system instead of adding a lengthy list of new features. Previous news has also pointed to a new watch face inspired by Modular Ultra, which is currently only available for Apple Watch Ultra models.
Other modifications might include extra Apple Intelligence functions for Apple Watch users who have a compatible iPhone. The current features of Apple Intelligence on the smartwatch consist of Workout Buddy, Live Translation in Messages, and Notification Summaries. There are also reports suggesting that some satellite functions anticipated with iOS 27, like accessing Apple Maps via satellite and the ability to share pictures through satellite messaging, might later be available on compatible Apple Watch models too. Apple is anticipated to introduce watchOS 27 at its Worldwide Developers Conference on June 8 along with iOS 27 and updates for its other software platforms. The initial developer beta is expected to come out soon after the keynote, with the public release predicted to happen later this year.
