Apple has released an interim update for the Apple Watch, which fixes important issues. Therefore, install the update quickly!
watchOS 11.6.2
Apple released a bunch of new software releases this week! The latest test versions of iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, macOS 26.3 and watchOS 26.3 have been released for developers. In the background, Apple is working on more interim updates, because not all devices have yet been updated to the latest software versions. For example, many users have postponed the update to iOS 26, iPadOS 26 and watchOS 26.
Earlier this week, iOS 16.7.14 and iPadOS 16.7.14 were released, which resolved major problems on previous generations of the iPhone and iPad. An important update was also released for the Apple Watch on Thursday, February 5, 2026, because watchOS 11.6.2 is available. This software version is only intended for Apple Watches that do not yet run watchOS 26. This is an interim update that is best installed immediately.
Problems with SOS emergency notifications
With watchOS 11.6.2, Apple solves an issue that affected several generations of the Apple Watch. The Apple Watch Series 6, Series 7, Series 8, Series 9, Series 10, Ultra and the Ultra 2 had problems making SOS emergency notifications. Users in Australia were unable to make an emergency call via their Apple Watch. That problem has been resolved with watchOS 11.6.2, making it an important update for the Apple Watch.
It is not clear which other software bugs Apple is fixing in watchOS 11.6.2. In the description of the update, Apple mentions that it fixes important issues and that the software version is recommended for all users. Apple often uses interim updates to improve security. Have you not installed watchOS 26 yet? Then make sure you download the watchOS 11 update on your Apple Watch so that the security of the smartwatch remains in order.
More about watchOS 11.6.2
With watchOS 11.6.2, no new features are coming to your Apple Watch, instead Apple is using the update to improve the software. For all new features, you must install watchOS 26 on the Apple Watch. This software version brings major changes to the Apple Watch, the operating system has a new design and many applications are expanded with useful features.
Have you already installed watchOS 26? Then you will not see the update to watchOS 11.6.2 on your Apple Watch. The software version is only available to users still running a version of watchOS 11. Do you have an Apple Watch with watchOS 11 or lower? Then update your smartwatch as quickly as possible so that security is completely in order again. Also sign up for our daily or weekly newsletter so you always stay informed of important Apple updates!
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