Apple watchOS 10 and iOS 17: Features and Compatibility

Apple released watchOS 10 and iOS 17 in September 2023 as companion software updates for Apple Watch and iPhone. watchOS 10 redesigned parts of the Watch experience and added health and activity features, while iOS 17 introduced changes such as Contact Posters, StandBy and improved communication tools; using the new Watch software requires a compatible iPhone running iOS 17 or later.

What changed in watchOS 10 and iOS 17

The updates arrived together, but they do different jobs. iOS 17 runs on the iPhone, and watchOS 10 runs on the Apple Watch. They work as a pair for setup, notifications, syncing and many connected features, so the Watch’s supported iPhone and operating-system requirements matter as much as the Watch model itself.

Apple announced both updates at its 2023 Worldwide Developers Conference and released them publicly on September 18, 2023. They are now older releases, rather than the latest versions of Apple’s operating systems. A device that can run them may also be eligible for later updates; check its Software Update screen for the current version available to it.

How watchOS 10 changed Apple Watch

The most visible change was a redesigned interface. Apple refreshed built-in apps to use more of the display, with more glanceable information. A new Smart Stack presents relevant widgets that can be reached by turning the Digital Crown from the watch face. The side button opens Control Center, while the redesigned Dock gives way to the Smart Stack interaction.

watchOS 10 also brought back a practical role for widgets: they provide quick access to information without requiring a dedicated complication on the selected watch face. For example, a user can check a timer or upcoming event from the stack. Which widgets appear can change with context, and users can customize the stack.

Other additions included:

• Cycling: Workout views added more information, and an iPhone running iOS 17 could show a Live Activity for a cycling workout when mounted nearby. Bluetooth cycling sensors were also supported for relevant metrics.
• Hiking: Compass features could mark the last point with cellular reception and the last point where an emergency call might be available. Topographic maps became available in the Maps app in the United States.
• Mental health: The Mindfulness app added ways to record a momentary emotion or daily mood and view reflections over time.
• Vision health: Screen Time tracking could estimate time spent in daylight, using ambient-light measurements on supported models. It was intended as awareness information, not a diagnosis.
• New watch faces: Palette and Snoopy were among the faces introduced with the release.

Feature availability varies by Watch model, region and settings. Some functions need an iPhone nearby, a compatible sensor, location access or a supported service.

What iOS 17 added to iPhone

iOS 17 focused heavily on communication and everyday convenience. Contact Posters let people customize how their information appears when they call others. NameDrop offered a way to exchange contact details by bringing compatible iPhones close together; it was a sharing feature, not a requirement for receiving calls.

In Messages, users could create Live Stickers from subjects in photos, use a new catch-up arrow to jump to unread messages, and share location or request someone’s location in a conversation. Check In could notify a selected contact when a person reached a destination, with details shared if a delay or unexpected interruption occurred. Users choose whether to use these features and what to share.

StandBy turned a charging iPhone placed on its side into a full-screen view for items such as a clock, widgets or photos. Other changes included interactive widgets, improved autocorrect and predictions, offline map downloads in Apple Maps, and NameDrop’s related proximity-sharing experience. Journal launched later in 2023 as a separate iOS 17 app update rather than being available in the initial September release.

Compatibility and requirements

watchOS 10 supported Apple Watch Series 4 and later, Apple Watch SE (1st generation) and later, and Apple Watch Ultra and later. Apple’s stated requirement was pairing with an iPhone XS or later running iOS 17 or later. Being able to install the update did not mean every feature was available on every model.

iOS 17 supported iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR and later models, including the second- and third-generation iPhone SE. The iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X did not support iOS 17. Apple’s current compatibility information and the device’s own Software Update screen are the best checks before updating, especially because later releases may have different requirements.

To check versions, open Settings > General > About on iPhone. On Apple Watch, open Settings > General > About, or check the Watch app on the paired iPhone. To look for an available update, use Settings > General > Software Update on iPhone; for Watch, use the Watch app’s General > Software Update page.

Updating and resolving common problems

Before a major update, make sure the iPhone and Watch have enough battery, are connected as instructed on the update screen, and have a reliable internet connection. Keep the iPhone and Watch near each other during a Watch update. The Watch must be on its charger and sufficiently charged for installation; the update screen explains the required conditions.

If an update does not appear, check model compatibility, available storage and whether the device already has a newer version installed. Restarting both devices and trying again can help with a stalled check or connection. If installation repeatedly fails, consult Apple Support rather than erasing or unpairing devices as a first step; unpairing can take time and should not be used casually as a troubleshooting shortcut.

A common misconception is that installing iOS 17 automatically updates the Watch. It does not: watchOS updates are installed separately through the Watch app or Watch settings. Likewise, a new feature listed in release notes may require newer hardware or a particular region, so its absence does not necessarily mean the update failed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need iOS 17 for watchOS 10?
Yes. Apple’s stated pairing requirement for watchOS 10 was an iPhone XS or later running iOS 17 or later.

Can I install watchOS 10 on Apple Watch Series 3?
No. watchOS 10 supports Series 4 and later, the first-generation SE and later, and Ultra models.

What is the biggest watchOS 10 change?
The interface redesign is the most noticeable, especially the Smart Stack, which puts customizable widgets within reach from the watch face.

Does iOS 17 work on iPhone X?
No. iOS 17 supports iPhone XS, XS Max, XR and later, but not iPhone X, iPhone 8 or iPhone 8 Plus.

Are watchOS 10 and iOS 17 still the latest versions?
No. They were released in 2023. Check Software Update on each device to see whether a later release is available and supported.

Why can’t I see a watchOS 10 feature?
Features can depend on the Watch model, paired iPhone, region, sensors, settings or connected services. Check Apple’s feature requirements for the specific function.

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