Apple has announced that watchOS 27 and iPadOS 27 will be released on September 14, 2026, bringing a host of new health-tracking features to Apple Watch and iPad users. The updates leverage higher-frequency sensing and Apple Intelligence to transform health data into clearer daily guidance.
New Health Sensing System
The latest Apple Watch models, including the Series 12 and Ultra 4, introduce a new Health Sensing System that enables more frequent measurements. Heart rate readings can be taken every five seconds, while HRV measurements can occur every five minutes. Apple claims this system delivers the highest heart rate accuracy among comparable wearables.
Readiness Score
A new Readiness feature provides users with a daily score from 0 to 10, based on recent activity, vital signs, and sleep data. The score suggests whether to Recover, Pace Yourself, Ready, or Go For It, and can update throughout the day as new health information arrives.
AI Fitness Coaching
Workout Buddy receives a major upgrade, now supporting standalone Apple Watch operation without needing an iPhone nearby. The AI fitness coach uses more workout history for personalized motivation and adds Spanish language support alongside English.
Cycle Tracking Expands
Cycle Tracking now includes perimenopause and menopause monitoring, with symptom logging and cycle pattern notifications. Users aged 40 and above can receive alerts when patterns suggest possible perimenopause. Apple emphasizes these are wellness features, not medical diagnosis.
Redesigned Health App on iPad
iPadOS 27 brings a redesigned Health app that integrates Apple Intelligence. The Insights tab summarizes heart, sleep, fitness, readiness, and cycle data, while Longevity tracks broader health trends. Health Age compares selected Apple Watch metrics with chronological age. The app can also include movement assessments and imported lab data, measuring flexibility, strength, balance, movement mechanics, and VO2 max.
GymKit and AirPods Pro 3
Apple is expanding GymKit through iPhone and compatible gym equipment. AirPods Pro 3 can share heart rate data via iPhone, and machine learning improves treadmill distance calculations.
watchOS 27 supports Apple Watch Series 9 or later, SE 3, and Ultra 2 or later. The redesigned Health app starts with U.S. English availability, with more languages planned.
Apple Health and Fitness Vice President Sumbul Desai said, “Technology can empower everyone with actionable, science-based insights built with privacy at the core.”