Apple Watch Series 12 Workout Buddy Runs on Watch Alone

Workout Buddy will run without your iPhone nearby

Workout Buddy debuted with an iPhone requirement. watchOS 27 removes that limitation, and Series 12 is expected to be the first new Apple Watch to include the feature from day one.

1 min read

Apple Watch Series 12 Guide

Apple Watch

Apple Watch Series 12

12 generations

What to know

Apple announced in June 2026 that Workout Buddy, its AI workout coach, will work from the Apple Watch with watchOS 27. Your iPhone no longer has to be nearby during a workout.

That means you can leave your phone at home on a run or ride and still get coaching and pace updates. Apple's fine print still requires a paired iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence, plus Bluetooth headphones or speakers.

How we know this

What changed, newest first.

Sep 9, 2026RightIt turned out as reported.

Aug 11, 2026MacRumorsWorkout Buddy runs without the iPhone nearby, and treadmill distances get more accurate

Jul 20, 2026MacRumorsBeta 4 has Workout Buddy running with no iPhone nearby

Jul 14, 20269to5MacThe nearby-iPhone requirement is gone this year

Jul 13, 20269to5MacWorkout Buddy now coaches with your iPhone left at home+1 outlet

Jul 13, 2026MacRumorsAdds treadmill distances are more accurate in the same release

Show 3 more reportsShow fewer

Jul 13, 2026AppleInsiderWorkout Buddy no longer needs the iPhone, one of 50 watchOS 27 changes

Jul 6, 20269to5MacApple's own wording for it is nothing in your pocket or hand

Jun 8, 2026MacRumorsWorkout Buddy runs without an iPhone nearby

Reported

Frequently asked

Do I still need my iPhone for Workout Buddy?

Not nearby. Workout Buddy can coach you without your iPhone in your pocket, but Apple's fine print still requires a paired iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence, plus Bluetooth headphones or speakers.

Latest Apple Watch Series 12 news

Some Apple Watches run an hour fast on the Always-On screen after Europe's clock changeAndroid Headlines · Oct 26, 2026
Orangetheory members can use an Apple Watch in class for a one-time $999to5Mac · Oct 22, 2026
An Apple Watch can now pair with some Huawei phones in ChinaAndroid Headlines · Oct 13, 2026
Apple Watch Series 12 is slightly easier to repair, but iFixit still gives it a 4 out of 10MacRumors · Oct 7, 2026

All Apple Watch Series 12 news