Apple is dropping support for some pretty modern Watch models
Three smartwatch models from 2022 and 2023 won't run watchOS 27.
Three smartwatch models from 2022 and 2023 won't run watchOS 27. This report comes from Engadget. The story centres on Apple is dropping support for
Read Full Story at Engadget →Why This Matters
Apple’s decision to drop support for relatively recent Apple Watch models in watchOS 27 signals a tightening of its software upgrade policy, prioritizing newer hardware investments over backward compatibility. This shift could reshape consumer expectations around device longevity and force users into upgrade cycles that align with Apple’s hardware release timelines.
Background Context
The affected models—Series 8, SE (2nd gen), and Ultra—were among Apple’s flagship releases just two years ago, underscoring how rapidly the company is tightening its software support window. Historically, Apple has supported watches for five to six years, but this move suggests a faster cadence, mirroring trends seen in iPhones where older models often lose support after four to five years.
What Happens Next
Users of the discontinued models may face pressure to upgrade to newer devices to access security patches and new features, potentially boosting Apple’s hardware sales. Regulators and consumer advocacy groups could scrutinize whether Apple’s policies are designed to accelerate obsolescence, especially amid growing scrutiny of tech companies’ sustainability practices.
Bigger Picture
This aligns with a broader industry trend where companies prioritize software exclusivity as a driver of hardware sales, reducing long-term support commitments. It also reflects Apple’s strategy to segment its ecosystem, ensuring users remain within its latest software and hardware ecosystem to maximize revenue and ecosystem lock-in.
