Apple is preparing to launch watchOS 12 during its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025, scheduled for June 9. As we approach this much-anticipated release, two critical questions remain at the forefront for Apple enthusiasts: Will watchOS 12 integrate Apple Intelligence? And will it align with the visionOS-inspired design overhaul that’s set to impact iOS, iPadOS, and macOS? Insights have emerged, but they may not meet expectations.
No Standalone Apple Intelligence in watchOS 12
According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, the Apple Watch won’t feature a comprehensive version of Apple Intelligence. Instead, users can expect select features that are “powered by Apple Intelligence”. This suggests that Apple Intelligence capabilities will primarily operate through an iPhone connection. When the Apple Watch debuted, it relied heavily on the iPhone for its functionality, a trend it has since outgrown. However, it appears that we may see a return to this dependency with watchOS 12.
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For users hoping for the Apple Watch to operate AI functionalities independently, the outlook appears dim. Currently, the only Apple Intelligence capabilities available on the Apple Watch include Notification Summaries and the Reduce Interruptions focus feature. However, these features are not natively present on the Apple Watch; they are only accessible through it if the user has a compatible iPhone. If a user’s iPhone cannot support Apple Intelligence, having the latest Apple Watch model won’t help.
Despite this limitation, users with a compatible iPhone may find that the limited integration of Apple Intelligence features in watchOS 12 enhances their overall experience compared to current offerings.
watchOS 12: Emphasizing Refinements Over Revolutionary Changes
In terms of design, reports suggest Apple is working on a significant interface revamp codenamed “Solarium,” applicable to iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, which is inspired by visionOS. However, watchOS 12 is expected to only introduce modest UI changes. Gurman has indicated that Apple Watch users can anticipate a few new interface elements, but those looking for a substantial redesign should temper their expectations.
While the Apple Watch will see some new interface elements, a major overhaul is not on the table.
If Gurman’s reports prove accurate, watchOS 12 may function more like a maintenance update than a groundbreaking release. Although subtle visual enhancements and minor AI-powered features could elevate the user experience, it appears that Apple is saving its most significant developments for its other platforms.
Apple’s Cautious Strategy: Playing It Safe?
With watchOS 12, Apple seems to be cautiously stepping into the AI realm for its wearable devices. By not incorporating Apple Intelligence directly into the Watch and opting instead for a tethered experience reliant on a compatible iPhone, the company is gravitating toward a conservative approach. While this might initially feel like a step backward for a device that has progressed toward greater autonomy, it also reflects Apple’s longstanding strategy: refining and controlling features before a broader rollout.
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However, the timing appears misaligned with current trends. Wearables are increasingly evolving into independent AI companions—from Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses featuring real-time visual recognition to Oura and Whoop’s personalized health feedback, driven by cutting-edge machine learning. In this context, the Apple Watch’s limited AI integration could render it a peripheral rather than an integral component of Apple’s AI vision.
Given Apple’s earlier hesitance towards AI, one might expect the company to have shifted gears by now. Yet, this meticulously measured approach may allow Apple to concentrate its AI efforts in areas that can harness maximum potential—devices that possess the hardware and battery longevity necessary for robust performance. While the Apple Watch boasts many strengths, it remains constrained by its size and energy limitations. Following the previous struggles with Apple Intelligence and Siri, launching underwhelming on-device AI features could further tarnish the company’s reputation.
In the longer term, expectations from users are bound to rise. If wearables aspire to act as intelligent, context-aware companions—something Apple is particularly suited to offer—the Apple Watch will ultimately need to advance beyond mere mirroring of intelligence from another device. The evolution of wearables is leaning toward increased autonomy, and Apple must ensure it remains a key player in this burgeoning landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions About watchOS 12
Will watchOS 12 include Apple Intelligence features?
No, watchOS 12 will not support standalone Apple Intelligence features. Instead, it will have limited functionalities powered by Apple Intelligence, which will still rely on a connected iPhone for operation.
What new features can we expect in watchOS 12?
While major changes are not anticipated, users can look forward to subtle user interface enhancements and minor AI-powered features that aim to refine the overall experience.
How will watchOS 12 compare to previous versions?
watchOS 12 may resemble a maintenance update, focusing on incremental improvements rather than revolutionary changes seen in previous versions.
Why is Apple taking a cautious approach with watchOS 12?
Apple’s cautious strategy aims to ensure that new features are polished and reliable. This reflects the company’s broader philosophy of refining technologies before a major rollout to enhance user experience.