# Apple Watch Series 12

The text version of the iDevice Guide at https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap. Same data as the page, last updated 2026-10-08.

> Apple Watch Series 12 starts at $399. What changed from Series 11.

- Status: On sale
- List price: $399 (The maker's own starting price.) Source: [apple.com](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/introducing-apple-watch-series-12-with-the-all-new-health-sensing-system/).
- Released Sep 18, 2026 (source: [Apple Newsroom](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/introducing-apple-watch-series-12-with-the-all-new-health-sensing-system/))
- Guide: https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap
- Last updated: 2026-10-08

## Key specs

| Spec | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Announced | September 9, 2026 | [apple.com](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/introducing-apple-watch-series-12-with-the-all-new-health-sensing-system/) |
| Available | September 18, 2026 | [apple.com](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/introducing-apple-watch-series-12-with-the-all-new-health-sensing-system/) |
| Price | From $399 | [apple.com](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/introducing-apple-watch-series-12-with-the-all-new-health-sensing-system/) |
| Chip | S11 | [apple.com](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/) |
| Battery | Up to 24 hours | [apple.com](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/) |
| Blood pressure | Hypertension notifications only | [apple.com](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/) |

## Can it do this?

- **How long does the battery last?** It runs 24 hours. That is 38 hours in low power mode, and 24 hours at most. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-how-long-does-the-battery-last))
- **Does it read blood glucose?** No, it has no glucose sensor. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-does-it-read-blood-glucose))
- **Does it track sleep apnea?** It looks for signs that you may be at risk. It is a signal to act on, not a diagnosis. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-does-it-track-sleep-apnea))
- **Can it get wet — shower, pool, swimming?** Yes, you can shower and swim in it. It is rated to 50m, and for snorkelling. Its rating is WR50, IP6X. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-can-it-get-wet-shower-pool-swimming))
- **Does it work with my phone?** It works with an iPhone only. There is no Android app. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-does-it-work-with-my-phone))
- **How much storage does it have?** It comes with 64GB of storage. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-how-much-storage-does-it-have))
- **Does it do 5G?** Yes, it does 5G. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-does-it-do-5g))
- **How heavy is it?** It weighs 31.5g to 52.9g. The weight varies by size or finish. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-how-heavy-is-it))
- **What sizes does it come in?** Two, and the ceramic ones are a millimetre larger. Aluminium and titanium come as 42mm and 46mm cases; the new ceramic finish is 43mm and 47mm. The small case fits wrists from 130mm to 200mm and the large one from 140mm to 245mm, so check your wrist before you check the price. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-what-sizes-does-it-come-in))
- **How sharp and bright is the screen?** The screen reaches 2000 nits at its brightest. It packs 326 pixels into every inch. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-how-sharp-and-bright-is-the-screen))
- **How thick is it?** It is 9.7mm thick. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-how-thick-is-it))
- **What chip is inside?** It runs on S11. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-what-chip-is-inside))
- **Which AI assistant does it use?** It uses Siri powered by Apple Intelligence. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-which-ai-assistant-does-it-use))
- **What software does it run?** It runs watchOS 27. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#can-what-software-does-it-run))

## Works with

A smartwatch that works with iPhone. It does not work with Android.

- **Can you use an Apple Watch with an Android phone?** Doesn't work. No, it requires an iPhone for normal setup and use. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/109015). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#q-android))
- **Does the Apple Watch work with Strava?** Works. Yes, Strava has an Apple Watch app. Source: [Strava](https://support.strava.com/en-us/articles/15401820-strava-apple-watch-app). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#q-strava))
- **Does the Apple Watch work with iPhone?** Works. Yes, with an iPhone 11 or later running iOS 27 or later. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/109015). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#q-iphone))
- **Which iPhones does the Apple Watch work with?** Works. It works with iPhone 11 and later on iOS 27 or later. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/109015). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#q-which-iphones))
- **Does the Apple Watch work with Samsung phones?** Doesn't work. No, a Samsung Galaxy phone cannot replace the required iPhone. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/109015). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#q-samsung-galaxy))
- **Can you connect the Apple Watch to a Mac?** With a limit. Partly: it can unlock and approve passwords on a compatible Mac, but a Mac cannot replace the required iPhone. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/109015). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#q-mac))
- **Does the Apple Watch work with Pixel and other Android phones?** Doesn't work. No, Pixel and other Android phones cannot replace the required iPhone. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/109015). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#q-google-pixel-other-android))
- **Does the Apple Watch work with heart-rate monitors, cycling sensors and gym equipment?** With a limit. Yes, with supported Bluetooth sensors and compatible GymKit equipment. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#q-fitness-equipment-sensors))
- **Does the Apple Watch work with MyFitnessPal?** Works. Yes, MyFitnessPal has an Apple Watch app. Source: [Apple App Store (MyFitnessPal, Inc. listing)](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/myfitnesspal-calorie-counter/id341232718). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#q-myfitnesspal))
- **Does Spotify work on the Apple Watch Series 12?** With a limit. Yes, but watch playback needs Premium. Source: [Spotify](https://support.spotify.com/us/article/spotify-on-apple-watch/). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#q-spotify))

## Questions

### How much does Apple Watch Series 12 cost?

$399 in the US, for the 42mm aluminium GPS model. Larger sizes, cellular, titanium and ceramic cost more. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/introducing-apple-watch-series-12-with-the-all-new-health-sensing-system/). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#faq-how-much-does-apple-watch-series-12-cost))

### Does Series 12 have blood pressure monitoring?

No. It gives you hypertension notifications instead, a feature Apple says is not intended for people under 22, those already diagnosed with hypertension, or pregnant people. No Apple Watch gives you a blood pressure reading. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#faq-does-series-12-have-blood-pressure-monitoring))

### Does Series 12 get Siri AI?

Yes. Siri AI arrives in beta with watchOS 27 on Monday 14 September, in English first, with French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese and Spanish following in October. It is not available in the EU on watchOS at launch. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/introducing-apple-watch-series-12-with-the-all-new-health-sensing-system/). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#faq-does-series-12-get-siri-ai))

### Does Apple Watch Series 12 have Touch ID?

No. Apple's hardware list for Series 12 is the Digital Crown, a microphone, the side button, the band release button, the speaker and the Health Sensing System. There is no fingerprint reader. You unlock it with your passcode or your iPhone. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#faqs-does-apple-watch-series-12-have-touch-id))

### Does Series 12 look different from Series 11?

Same shape, more finishes. It comes in 42mm and 46mm as before, and now in eight finishes across three materials: dark bronze, light gold, black and space gray aluminium, radiant gold and natural titanium, and a returning ceramic in pearl white and night blue. Aluminium cases get Ceramic Shield 2, titanium and ceramic get sapphire. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap#faqs-does-series-12-look-different-from-series-11))

## Top reports

- **Series 12 will get the first new watch chip in three years** (Right.) Right on the chip, wrong on the name. Apple calls it the S11, not the S12. First reported by [MacRumors](https://www.macrumors.com/2026/05/08/apple-watch-series-12-and-watchos-27-rumors/) on May 8, 2026.
- **Apple is expected to put longer battery life ahead of new features** (Partly right.) No Touch ID, but everyday battery life is unchanged at 24 hours. First reported by [Gizmodo](https://gizmodo.com/this-years-apple-watch-might-play-things-very-safe-2000757011) on May 11, 2026.
- **Series 12 is expected to keep the Series 10 design** (Right.) Same rounded-square shape in 42mm and 46mm. The changes are inside. First reported by [Gizmodo](https://gizmodo.com/this-years-apple-watch-might-play-things-very-safe-2000757011) on May 11, 2026.
- **Apple's rebuilt Siri will come to the wrist** (Right.) It arrives in watchOS 27, reaching developer testing in a later beta. First reported by [9to5Mac](https://9to5mac.com/2026/06/17/siri-ai-will-make-the-apple-watch-a-fully-fledged-ai-wearable-in-watchos-27/) on Jun 17, 2026.
- **The 2026 watches will change on health and speed, not on design** (Right.) Health and speed improve. The case stays the same. First reported by [AppleInsider](https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/09/09/new-apple-watch-series-12-highlights-improved-health-sensing-system-readiness-app?utm_source=rss) on Sep 9, 2026.
- **Apple Watch could move to a new HMO OLED panel in 2027** (Still open.) The Elec says commercial adoption is not guaranteed. First reported by [MacRumors](https://www.macrumors.com/2026/06/02/2027-apple-watch-efficient-oled-display-tech/) on Jun 2, 2026.
- **A design overhaul is expected in 2027** (Right.) Instant Digital reports it includes a new system for connecting bands. First reported by [Weibo](https://www.weibo.com/5143897135/R6w0GFORh) on Jun 30, 2026.
- **The S11 chip reuses the architecture from the S9 and S10** (Right.) Code shows the same T8310 architecture, so the chip is a carry-over. First reported by [MacRumors](https://www.macrumors.com/2025/08/13/apple-watch-s11-chip-info/) on Aug 13, 2025.

---

Source: iDevice (https://idevice.com). Every spec, rumor and grade above links to where it came from. Full Guide: https://idevice.com/smart-watches/apple-watch/roadmap. This file: https://idevice.com/guide-text/apple-watch.md.

## Questions and answers

### Using it

**How do I set it up?** To set up Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4, you need an iPhone 11 or later with iOS 27 or later. Center the watch face in the viewfinder on your iPhone. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-us/109015)

**How do I reset it?** On your iPhone, open the Apple Watch app. Go to the My Watch tab and tap All Watches. Tap the info button next to the watch that you want to unpair. Tap Unpair Apple Watch. On your Apple Watch, open the Settings app. Tap General, then tap Reset. Tap Erase All Content and Settings. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-us/108372)

**How do I update it?** Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone. Tap My Watch, go to General > Software Update, then, if an update is available, tap Download and Install. You can also go to the Settings app on your Apple Watch, tap General, then tap Software Update. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/guide/watch/update-applewatch-software-apd105341ac3/watchos)

**Does it read blood glucose?** No, it has no glucose sensor. Source: Apple

**Does it track sleep apnea?** It looks for signs that you may be at risk. It is a signal to act on, not a diagnosis. Source: Apple

**Does it work with my phone?** It works with an iPhone only. There is no Android app. Source: Apple

**How much storage does it have?** It comes with 64GB of storage. Source: Apple

**Does it do 5G?** Yes, it does 5G. Source: Apple

**How heavy is it?** It weighs 31.5g to 52.9g. The weight varies by size or finish. Source: Apple

**How sharp and bright is the screen?** The screen reaches 2000 nits at its brightest. It packs 326 pixels into every inch. Source: Apple

**How thick is it?** It is 9.7mm thick. Source: Apple

**What chip is inside?** It runs on S11. Source: Apple

**Which AI assistant does it use?** It uses Siri powered by Apple Intelligence. Source: Apple

**What software does it run?** It runs watchOS 27. Source: Apple

**What is it made of?** It is made of Aluminium, titanium or ceramic. Source: Apple

**What kind of screen is it?** It uses always-on ltpo3 oled, 1hz refresh, 2,000 nits peak. Source: Apple

**Does it track sleep stages?** Yes, it tracks your sleep stages. Source: Apple

### Sizing and fit

**What sizes does it come in?** Case sizes: 42 and 46. 42mm / 46mm; aluminium, titanium or ceramic; eight finishes Source: Apple

**How do I pick the right size?** Note the number the arrows point to — that’s your band size. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/shop/Catalog/US/Images/bxxd/size-guide_CA.pdf)

### Battery and charging

**How do I look after the battery?** You can maximize battery life by turning on Low Power Mode or preventing apps from refreshing in the background. Low Power Mode turns off certain features, such as Always On Display, background heart rate and blood oxygen measurements, and heart rate notifications. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/guide/watch/extend-the-battery-life-apd422aaa391/watchos)

**How do I charge it?** Leave your watch connected to its charger for a while. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-us/108927)

**How long does the battery last in normal use?** up to 24 hours of normal use Battery life varies by use, configuration, cellular network, signal strength, and many other factors; actual results will vary. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/)

**Battery low power mode hours?** Up to 38 hours in Low Power Mode Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/)

**How long does the battery last in an outdoor workout?** Up to 10 hours outdoor workout Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/)

**Battery fast charge?** Up to 80% charge in about 30 minutes 15 minutes for up to 12 hours of normal use 5 minutes for up to 10 hours of sleep tracking Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/)

**How long does the battery last?** It runs 24 hours. That is 38 hours in low power mode, and 24 hours at most. Source: Apple

### Water

**How do I clean it?** Wipe your Apple Watch clean with a nonabrasive, lint-free cloth. If necessary, lightly dampen the cloth with fresh water. Dry your Apple Watch with a nonabrasive, lint-free cloth, including the surface of the back crystal. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-us/108893)

**Can it get wet — shower, pool, swimming?** Yes, you can shower and swim in it. It is rated to 50m, and for snorkelling. Its rating is WR50, IP6X. Source: Apple

### Price and models

**When did the Apple Watch Series 12 come out?** It went on sale September 18, 2026. Announced September 9, 2026. Source: iDevice

**Is there a newer one?** No. The Apple Watch Series 12 is the current model. Source: iDevice

**How much does each model of the Apple Watch Series 12 cost?** 42mm: $399, aluminum case: $399, 46mm: $449, titanium case: $699, ceramic case: $899. The maker's own prices. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/shop/buy-watch/apple-watch)

**What colors does it come in?** Night Blue (Ceramic), Light Gold (Aluminum), Black (Aluminum), Space Gray (Aluminum), Dark Bronze (Aluminum), Natural (Titanium), Pearl White (Ceramic), Radiant Gold (Titanium). Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/shop/buy-watch/apple-watch)

### Returns and warranty

**How long do I have to return it?** 14-day returns The clock starts the day it arrives. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/legal/sales-support/sales-policies/retail_us.html)

**Is there a restocking fee?** Restocking fee: not stated by Apple Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/shop/help/returns_refund)

**Who pays return shipping?** Who pays return shipping: not stated by Apple Start the return online and print a return label, then schedule a carrier pickup or drop it at the carrier. You can also return it at any U.S. Apple Store. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/shop/help/returns_refund)

**Can I return it if I opened or wore it?** Send it back like new Return it in its original condition with all included parts, accessories and packaging. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/legal/sales-support/sales-policies/retail_us.html)

**How do I get my money back?** How you get your money back Card refunds go to your bank within five business days after Apple receives the item. Returns may be inspected; approved refunds or exchanges are issued within 10 business days. Cash returns over $750 are paid by check within 10 business days. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/legal/sales-support/sales-policies/retail_us.html)

**How long is the warranty?** 1-year warranty Starts the day you buy it. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/legal/warranty/products/ios-warranty-document-us.html)

**Is there a paid protection plan?** Add AppleCare+ or AppleCare One AppleCare+ fees for Apple Watch: $69 accidental damage, $119 theft and loss. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/legal/applecare/fees-deductibles/)

**Is water damage covered?** Water resistance wears off Apple says Apple Watch water resistance is not permanent, can diminish over time, and cannot be rechecked or resealed. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-us/109522)

**Is the battery covered?** Battery covered only for defects The standard warranty covers a battery only if it fails from a defect. The 80 percent rule belongs to AppleCare, not to the free warranty: AppleCare plans cover batteries that keep less than 80% of their original capacity. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/applecare/)

### In the box

**What's in the box?** Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Magnetic Fast Charger to USB-C Cable. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/)

### Works with

**Does the Apple Watch work with Samsung phones?** No, a Samsung Galaxy phone cannot replace the required iPhone. Doesn't work Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/109015)

**Can you connect the Apple Watch to a Mac?** Partly: it can unlock and approve passwords on a compatible Mac, but a Mac cannot replace the required iPhone. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/109015)

**Does the Apple Watch work with Pixel and other Android phones?** No, Pixel and other Android phones cannot replace the required iPhone. Doesn't work Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/109015)

**Does the Apple Watch work with heart-rate monitors, cycling sensors and gym equipment?** Yes, with supported Bluetooth sensors and compatible GymKit equipment. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/)

**Does the Apple Watch work with MyFitnessPal?** Yes, MyFitnessPal has an Apple Watch app. Works Source: [Apple App Store (MyFitnessPal, Inc. listing)](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/myfitnesspal-calorie-counter/id341232718)

**Does Spotify work on the Apple Watch Series 12?** Yes, but watch playback needs Premium. With a limit Source: [Spotify](https://support.spotify.com/us/article/spotify-on-apple-watch/)

**Does WhatsApp work on the Apple Watch Series 12?** Yes, WhatsApp has an Apple Watch app. With a limit Source: [WhatsApp](https://faq.whatsapp.com/2231049240985350)

**Does the Apple Watch work with my car?** Partly, it can be a digital car key. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-us/118271)

**Does the Apple Watch support third-party apps like Strava, Spotify, WhatsApp and Google Maps?** Yes, but what you can do varies by app. With a limit Source: [Google](https://support.google.com/maps/answer/9773173?hl=en)

**How does the Series 12 charge?** Magnetically, with the Apple Watch Magnetic Fast Charger. Works Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/)

**Does the Apple Watch support tap-to-pay?** Yes, with Apple Pay where it is available. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-us/102775)

**How does the Apple Watch use the iPhone app, Apple Account and subscriptions?** Set it up and manage it in the Apple Watch app; Fitness+ is optional and separate. Works Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/109015)

**Does the Apple Watch support cellular service?** Yes, on cellular-capable models with an eligible carrier plan. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/)

**Does the Apple Watch support ECG, Blood Oxygen and other health alerts?** Partly: the features are supported, but availability depends on age, region and other requirements. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/)

**Does the Apple Watch support notifications and message replies away from an iPhone?** Partly: yes over Wi-Fi or cellular, but some messages still depend on the paired iPhone. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/109015)

**Does the Series 12 work with older Apple Watch bands?** Partly: band compatibility depends on the Series 12 case size and the band family. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/shop/product/ml3q4am/a/42mm-camel-modern-buckle-small)

**Does the Apple Watch support Apple Watch For Your Kids?** Yes, for a family member who does not have their own iPhone. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-la/119601)

**Does the Apple Watch work with Find My?** Yes, Find My can locate and protect the watch. Works Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-gw/126302)

**Does the Apple Watch support Siri?** Yes, with extra requirements for Siri AI features. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/guide/watch/find-information-with-siri-apd2c244cd5d/27/watchos/27)

**Does the Apple Watch support Emergency SOS and satellite communication?** Partly: Emergency SOS is built in, but satellite contact requires a paired iPhone 14 or later. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-series-12/specs/)

**Does the Apple Watch support the same features in every region and language?** No, some features depend on your country, region, language or carrier. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-us/102626)