With watchOS 9 almost certain to be announced at the WWDC 2022 keynote, many are wondering about watchOS 9 compatibility. For example, which Apple Watch models will be covered by watchOS 9?

Apple has established a reputation for supporting older devices, even those that have been on the market for several years, with software updates. For example, the iPhone 6s introduced in 2015 came with iOS 15 and the iPhone 13 series came with the same software; for the Apple Watch, the first and second generation models have been phased out, but all versions since 2017 still receive annual watchOS is undergoing an overhaul.

While it is possible that some watchOS 9 features will be optimized for the rumored Apple Watch 8 (watchOS 8 and Apple Watch 7 eventually were), earlier Apple Watch models should get the latest software. However, one model in particular that could be ruled out is the Apple Watch 3.

How far back watchOS 9 compatibility goes remains to be seen, but all will soon be revealed at WWDC 2022 on June 6. Until then, we'll keep you posted on watchOS 9 compatibility. Until then, here's what to expect in terms of watchOS 9 compatibility.

Based on previous watchOS updates, we have some idea which Apple Watch models will be eligible for the upgrade. In fact, the Apple Watch 7 will definitely be upgraded and is the smartwatch most likely to test the watchOS 9 beta version for us. Not to mention, it's currently the best smartwatch overall.

As for the early Apple Watch models, we're guessing that all versions of the Apple Watch 4 and beyond will come with watchOS 9. if you know how to use the Apple Watch, there's not much difference in experience between generations. The only notable feature other than the size of the new Apple Watch 7 is the always-on display that debuted on the Apple Watch 5.

Apple Watch models expected to support watchOS 9 include:

You may have noticed that the Apple Watch 3 is not included in the Apple Watch models expected to support watchOS 9. generation smartwatch, which is both the best Apple Watch available for under $200 and one of the least expensive smartwatches available.

We're not sure why the Apple Watch 3 is still around. Besides the fact that it's the best Apple Watch available during the holiday season, it's pretty outdated; you can't buy the LTE version anymore, and the large bezel makes it look dated compared to the Series 7.

Whether Apple will end software support for the Apple Watch 3 this year is probably the biggest question mark against any wearable-related announcement at WWDC. On the one hand, support for the five-year-old smartwatch must end at some point. On the other hand, it doesn't seem fair to those who purchased the Series 3 this year to lose support.

We believe the latter is a good reason to provide watchOS 9 compatibility for the Apple Watch 3. That said, we would not be surprised if certain features do not work on the Series 3. Also, looking a little further ahead, watchOS 9 could be the last software overhaul for the Apple Watch 3 if Apple discontinues the Apple Watch 3 later this year.