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A Major Step Toward Customization on Apple Watch
Apple is preparing to unveil a much-anticipated breakthrough at WWDC25 with watchOS 26, setting the stage for what could be one of the most user-empowering updates in the history of Apple Watch. According to exclusive insights from 9to5Mac, one of the most-requested features ā third-party widgets in Control Center ā is finally making its debut. For the first time, Apple is opening the Control Center, long restricted to native toggles, to third-party developers. This allows users to take full control of their smartwatch experience, reshaping the way they interact with apps on their wrists.
Whatās New in watchOS 26: the Report
watchOS 26 is reportedly introducing third-party widget support in the Control Center, a feature long requested by Apple Watch users. Previously, the Control Center was limited to Appleās own settings and toggles such as Wi-Fi, Battery, and Focus Mode. Now, thanks to an internal source, developers will soon be able to integrate their own widgets, allowing for customized functionality directly on the watch face.
Even more impressive, users will be able to rearrange, add, or remove widgets through the Watch app on iPhone. This significantly improves user experience compared to the current on-device configuration method, which can be cumbersome.
This update means users could integrate tools like hydration loggers, smart home shortcuts, or quick-launch workout presets directly into Control Center ā creating a far more personalized and efficient smartwatch experience. While Apple may still adjust or delay this feature before launch, the leak appears credible given the track record of the source.
WWDC25 is expected to focus less on AI this year and more on design and UI enhancements across the Apple ecosystem, including iOS 26, macOS 26, and iPadOS 26. The keynote on June 9 will reveal all, and excitement is building.
For those looking to upgrade or jump into the Apple Watch ecosystem, several models are currently discounted on Amazon, including the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 10 models ā making it a great time to invest.
What Undercode Say: š§
Analyzing
This change signals a major philosophical shift in Appleās approach to the Apple Watch. Traditionally, Apple has guarded the core UI of watchOS, keeping it tightly controlled. Opening the Control Center to third-party widgets challenges that status quo and aligns Apple Watch more with the iPhoneās customizable experience.
From a developerās standpoint, this is a golden opportunity. Widget integration in Control Center creates new use-case scenarios and allows third-party apps to stay more present in a userās daily routine. Whether itās logging a calorie intake, locking smart home doors, or launching a breathing session, the use cases are endless ā and powerful.
For users, the impact is twofold: increased productivity and personalization. Unlike complications, which are tied to specific watch faces, Control Center widgets offer utility regardless of face style. This democratizes access to quick functions and promotes seamless interactions.
Technically, this will likely demand a new widget API optimized for quick-access actions and real-time data display, especially with constraints on battery life and performance. Appleās choice to allow widget customization through the iPhone Watch app also reflects their intent to make this feature user-friendly.
This move could also create deeper stickiness within the Apple ecosystem, incentivizing developers to prioritize watchOS as a viable platform rather than an afterthought. It builds a path for future modular systems that adapt to user preferences ā and potentially hints at an Apple Watch Pro mode in the near future.
Considering Appleās cautious rollout history, this feature may launch in a beta or limited capacity before becoming fully available. But if successful, this shift might be remembered as a turning point in smartwatch UI evolution ā similar to when iOS allowed widget placement on the Home Screen.
ā Fact Checker Results
Confirmed: Reliable sources have validated the third-party widget leak for watchOS 26.
Expected at WWDC25: Apple hasnāt officially announced the feature, but all indicators suggest a keynote reveal.
Pending Final Confirmation: Rollout may be phased or delayed based on Appleās internal roadmap.
š® Prediction
watchOS 26 will redefine how users interact with their Apple Watches. If Apple delivers on this feature, Control Center will become the new powerhouse of personalization and functionality. We predict that third-party widget integration will increase user engagement, spur new app innovations, and set a new standard for smartwatch UX in 2025 and beyond.
References:
Reported By: 9to5mac.com
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