WatchOS 27 has arrived: How to download the developer beta now


Apple Watch Ultra 3

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After unveiling WatchOS 27 at WWDC 2026, Apple made the developer beta version available to users. While most watch users will receive a free software update to iOS 27 this fall (though availability may vary by carrier, region, and local regulations), you can get access as early as right now in a few simple steps. 

WatchOS 27 is the successor to WatchOS 26, the latest operating system for Apple’s lineup of smartwatches. Notably, the WatchOS 27 software will not be available for the Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8, and 9, and the first-gen Apple Watch Ultra. 

Also: Apple WWDC 2026: iOS 27, Siri and Tim Cook’s last event as CEO

If you’re interested in being one of the first to test the new WatchOS 27, you can now install the developer beta on your device, followed by the public beta in July. Remember that beta versions always come with bugs or glitches, so ZDNET recommends backing up your data and keeping an open mind. 

This WatchOS won’t be flawless, but it does come with some new upgrades like a dedicated Siri app, a new dynamic app grid, a single-tap gesture to open a Smart Stack widget, more fitness insights with Workout Buddy, enhanced cycle tracking, and more. 

How to install the WatchOS 27 developer beta

  1. Download iOS 27 beta first 

iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max

Kerry Wan/ZDNET

To access the latest WatchOS 27, you’ll need to first install the iOS 27 developer beta. Here’s how to do so. 

2. Navigate to the Watch app on your iPhone

Apple Watch Series 11

Nina Raemont/ZDNET

Then, open the Watch app and navigate to General > Software Update > Beta Updates to select the WatchOS 27 beta. Remember that WatchOS 27 is limited to Apple Watch Series 10 and newer.

When will WatchOS 27 be released?

Apple released the WatchOS 27 developer beta during WWDC 2026, and the public beta version will likely be released in July. If past years are any indication, the general release of WatchOS 27 will take place in September, following the iPhone 18 event.

Which Apple Watches are compatible with WatchOS 27?

  • Apple Watch SE (3rd Gen) 
  • Apple Watch Series 10
  • Apple Watch Series 11
  • Apple Watch Ultra 2
  • Apple Watch Ultra 3

WatchOS 27 also requires an iPhone 11 or later, or iPhone SE (2nd generation or later), running iOS 27. As in previous versions, if you’ve got an older Apple Watch, certain features may not be available upon update. 


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Which Apple Watches are not compatible with WatchOS 27? 

WatchOS 27 cuts support for Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen), Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8, and 9, and the first-gen Apple Watch Ultra.

How do I install the WatchOS 27 public beta version?

To install WatchOS 27 beta, you’ll first need to have iOS 27 beta installed on your iPhone. Here’s a guide from ZDNET expert Maria Diaz on how to do so. After you complete these prerequisites, you can open the Watch app and navigate to General > Software Update > Beta Updates to select the WatchOS 27 beta. WatchOS 27 additionally has tight hardware requirements: it’s only limited to Apple Watch Series 10 and newer.

How do I install iOS 27 when it’s available?

The public release of WatchOS 27 is expected this September. Depending on the carrier, region, and local restrictions, compatible Apple Watch users will be able to upgrade after it’s available. If your device doesn’t automatically push its own update when the time is right, you can always manually begin the process by ensuring your watch has at least 50% battery. Then you can use the Apple Watch app on your iPhone or the watch’s Settings to download and install the update. 





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2026 has shaped up to be a big year for Milwaukee, and the company shows no signs of slowing down as it expands its product line. For example, it has announced that some solid new Milwaukee hand tools and organizers will be arriving throughout the summer, but that’s not all. At the end of the day, you need somewhere to put all of this stuff, and while the Milwaukee Packout storage system is deep and varied as is, the company will expand the line in the summer months.

More methods for organizing your tools are on the way, too, with the Milwaukee Packout line set to introduce some new entries this summer. They vary in size, purpose, and price point, but they’re all compatible with the wider Packout line. That means they can connect to each other, making transportation easier. In some cases, they’ll be able to help keep tools and other items secure and organized while on the move. Additionally, all of these new Packout products are covered by Milwaukee’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.

So, what new products does Milwaukee have to offer from its Packout line this summer? Here are the drops you can look forward to throughout June and July 2026.

Milwaukee compact crate

Sometimes, a massive Packout crate isn’t a necessity, which is why the line has its share of smaller options. Yet another will be coming to the Milwaukee catalog in the form of the Milwaukee Packout compact crate, which is set for a June 2026 release and will cost $39.97. It has a 30-pound weight capacity, comes in at 8.75 inches tall, 9.5 inches wide, 15.5 inches long, and 3.75 pounds, and includes two removable dividers to create up to three sections within the crate. The dividers can also be customized by cutting them to size along the pre-made score lines.

This compact crate features a wide front opening for easy access to its contents while on the job, as well as a metal top handle to carry it around on its own. Should you want to add it to your current Packout stack, you can use the connection points at the top and bottom of the crate. Speaking of durability, Milwaukee notes that it has an impact-resistant body along with weep holes to prevent water collection. At the same time, there is some nuance regarding the waterproof nature of Milwaukee Packout products, so keep that in mind before letting this crate get soaked.

Milwaukee Packout low-profile crate

A shorter but equally mighty Milwaukee Packout container is also on its way to customers this summer. The Milwaukee Packout low-profile crate is the shortest of the new releases at just 6.625 inches tall, though it makes up for what it lacks in height with a 15-inch length and an 18.625-inch width. Even though it’s slightly heavier than the compact crate at 4.85 pounds, it wins out in weight capacity with a 50-pound limit. It will be released in June 2026 and will cost $44.97.

For added modularity, the low-profile crate includes three different divider types: eight short, two long, and one for the middle of the container. When combined, they form up to 12 individual sections for tool and accessory organization. In terms of connecting to other Packout containers, it can do so from the top and bottom. Alternatively, built-in side handles are integrated into the design to make it easier to carry the crate on its own. The crate has weep holes for water drainage and an impact-resistant body.

Milwaukee Packout XL crate

Moving on to one of the larger upcoming Milwaukee Packout releases — even if it ultimately lands somewhere in the middle of the smallest and largest Packout containers for sale — there’s the aptly-named Milwaukee Packout XL crate. This release will hit shelves in June 2026 and comes with a $69.97 price tag. The 8.03-pound crate can take on some serious tools with its 75-pound weight capacity. It measures 15 inches tall, 15.75 inches long, and 18.625 inches wide. Despite its size, it can be hung up on a wall like most other Packout containers.

While some may hang this crate in their workshop, many will use it as part of their mobile Packout stack. You can connect it to your existing setup via the top and bottom connection points. It can also be used with Milwaukee toolbox attachments to hold smaller tools and batteries with connection points on the sides. Alternatively, you can move the crate around using its built-in side handles. It’s advertised as having an impact-resistant body along with anti-water collection weep holes. Suffice to say, there’s more to this seemingly simple crate than initially meets the eye.

Milwaukee Packout Wire Pulling XL Crate

For the most part, the Milwaukee Packout line is so popular because of its versatility. While most entries can be used for just about anything, there are those that come with a specialized function. Case in point, the forthcoming Milwaukee Packout Wire Pulling XL crate, which is designed for dispensing wire. This involves inserting and locking in spools of the user’s needed material, threading the wire through the wire retention slots, and using the fold-down panel to keep the end of the wire from rolling back into the box.

Overall, this crate has the same dimensions and weight capacity as the previously covered Packout XL crate, though it is the heavier of the two at 9.85 pounds. It can accommodate up to six spools, can be stacked onto other Packout containers or hung up, and has an impact-resistant body. This is the most expensive of the new Packout releases at a hefty $119.97, and it’s set to release during July 2026. Alongside the best Milwaukee power tools for electrical work, this crate seems like a vital piece for any Milwaukee-enthusiast electrician’s kit.

New Milwaukee Packout inserts are coming, too

That’s it for the new Milwaukee Packout containers set to debut this summer, but there are more new releases yet to cover. To pair with some of these containers and improve their levels of organization and function, come two new insert sets. First is the divider for the Milwaukee Packout XL crate, which splits the container into two sections. It simply slides down the middle of the crate and fits snugly into place, while retaining its ability to connect with smaller Packout attachments. It will be released in July 2026 for $29.97.

Alongside the Packout XL crate divider is the set of Packout wire pulling inserts for the XL crate. You’ll need these if you end up buying an XL crate and later want to use it as a wire-pulling crate. These inserts allow you to convert it instead of having to buy a new designated wire pulling crate. They attach to two of the inner sides of the crate via T-25 screws and include wire puller guards as well. The Milwaukee product listing says these inserts are meant for 1/2-inch EMT conduit. This insert set also comes out in July and will cost $49.97. 





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