Venus Charumbira
Information and Technology Reporter
Apple has released special software updates for older Apple Watch models to ensure key features like FaceTime and iMessage continue working.
The updates, watchOS 5.3.10 and watchOS 8.8.2, are not for the newest watches. Instead, they are designed for devices that cannot run the latest watchOS 26 software.
If you own an Apple Watch Series 1, Series 2, Series 3, or Series 4, you will receive the watchOS 5.3.10 update. For those with a Series 3, Series 4, Series 5, Series 6, Series 7, or the original Apple Watch SE, the update is watchOS 8.8.2.
According to Apple, these small updates fix an important issue. They refresh a security certificate that allows features such as device activation, iMessage, and FaceTime to work.
“Without this update, these services would stop functioning after January 2027” the company stated.
The company wants to make sure older devices stay useful. For many users, these updates represent the end of the road for their watches.
WatchOS 8 is the last version available for the Apple Watch Series 3. Meanwhile, watchOS 5 is the final version that can be installed on the Series 1 and Series 2 if they are paired with an iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, or iPhone 6 Plus.
However, the Series 1 and Series 2 do support watchOS 6 and the upgrade requires a newer iPhone 6s or later. Owners of these older Apple Watches are encouraged to install the update to keep their devices running smoothly.
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