The innovations that watchOS will bring in the new version 26 from the fall are rather mixed this time. For example, Apple wants to implement its controversial Liquid Glass design on the computer watch and is tightening up some convenience functions such as the control center and the "smart stack". Messages can now be closed with a flick of the wrist and there is a translation function for chats. The new functions announced for the training app (Workout) are much more interesting. A change to the layout should allow functions to be called up more quickly, which should be particularly helpful during training itself. But the real revolution is an AI training assistant built into watchOS 26.

The so-called Workout Buddy will initially be available in English. According to Apple, the system is based on Apple Intelligence and is designed to improve the "fitness experience with Workout Buddy through personalized motivation in spoken language". According to Apple, this will initially include running (indoors and outdoors), walking (ditto), HIIT (interval training), cycling (outdoors) as well as traditional and functional strength training. The Workout Buddy can tap into data such as heart rate, pace, distance, activity rings, personal fitness milestones and more and then process it, which Apple explains should be done "privately and securely".

For example, when users start a running workout, Workout Buddy motivates them in a personalized way and reminds them of the distance they have already run this week or their progress towards activity ring goals, says Apple. As an example, the company cites the following motivational message: "Great that you continued your running training this Wednesday morning. You're 18 minutes away from closing your training ring. You've already run ten kilometers this week. Today it will be more."

As the Apple Watch is too weak for Apple Intelligence, the Workout Buddy only works if you are training with your iPhone nearby (in a bag, for example). The iPhone itself must be ready for Apple Intelligence, i.e. at least an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max. The Workout Buddy is focused on the workout itself and makes the announcements as soon as the workout is finished. It does not initially appear to be planned to track the statements in the training app.

Apple is relying on a new text-to-speech model with "dynamically generative voices". They were developed based on the well-known Fitness+ trainers. "So their energy, style and tone match the workout." However, the use of Workout Buddy does not appear to be linked to a Fitness+ subscription (still €80 per year minimum). The service only works with paired Bluetooth headphones or Bluetooth earbuds.

(bsc)