Tim Cook sh0cks by launching the "holy technology" watchOS 12, Apple is set to dominate the tech race

Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 is just around the corner, and excitement is building for the latest software innovations that will be unveiled. As usual, the focus will largely be on iOS, macOS, and iPadOS, but don’t overlook the importance of watchOS, the operating system that powers the Apple Watch. 

Although watchOS is often a secondary topic compared to other platforms, it still consistently earns significant attention at the event. Every year, Apple introduces new software features for its smartwatch, and 2025 is expected to be no different.

This year, as we eagerly await new developments, one major question looms: Will watchOS 12 be the update name? While it’s highly likely, there have been some rumors that Apple may shake things up with new naming conventions.

Bloomberg recently suggested that Apple might align the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch updates under the iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and watchOS 26 branding. This could mark the beginning of a fresh era in Apple’s software naming structure. Regardless of the name, however, we’re expecting some exciting new features for the Apple Watch.

1. Apple Intelligence on Apple Watch: The AI Integration

Apple has been making substantial strides in the AI space, but its efforts have often been overshadowed by competitors like Google and OpenAI.

With this in mind, the June 9 announcement of watchOS 12 will be an essential moment for Apple to demonstrate that it can keep up with the AI-driven tech giants.

Bloomberg has speculated that Apple may introduce “Apple Intelligence” features in watchOS, offering a variety of AI-driven capabilities for the Apple Watch.

Apple Intelligence is not entirely new; the concept was hinted at during last year’s announcements, although its response was somewhat underwhelming. For watchOS 12, Apple could be looking to refine its AI approach with a more tailored experience for the Apple Watch.

These features, dubbed "powered by Apple Intelligence," may not run the AI models directly on the device itself but instead offer a refined user experience using cloud-based models. The good news for Apple Watch users is that these new features might not require the latest hardware, meaning even older Apple Watches could benefit from the update.

Three standout features linked to Apple Intelligence might include Genmoji, which would allow users to create personalized emojis directly from their wrist, and notification summaries integrated into widgets on the Apple Watch.

Siri, always a critical part of the Apple ecosystem, could also receive an update powered by Apple Intelligence. However, this overhaul of Siri will likely be more of an incremental update compared to the sweeping changes Apple had planned for the iPhone in previous years. Even so, this focus on AI will undoubtedly elevate the user experience on the Apple Watch.

2. Solarium-Inspired UI Redesign

Another major change expected for watchOS 12 is a redesigned user interface (UI) inspired by Apple’s internal design language referred to as "Solarium."

Apple has a history of tweaking its interface to enhance the user experience, and it seems likely that the company will take it a step further with a major visual overhaul that affects iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS. Solarium is reportedly characterized by a much brighter design, with increased transparency and possibly more vibrant window effects.

For the Apple Watch, this shift could represent a departure from its traditional dark interface, which has been a hallmark of the smartwatch. Apple has long used black backgrounds as the default aesthetic for watchOS, creating a sleek, minimalist look.

The introduction of the Solarium design could mean more dynamic and colorful interfaces, which would be an intriguing change for the small, square display of the Apple Watch. Whether or not this will improve user interactions remains to be seen, but Apple’s ability to reinvent its UI for a variety of devices is well-established.

The shift to a brighter, more transparent design could also complement some of the new AI-powered features, making the interface feel more interactive and responsive. We may also see more customizable widgets, providing users with more ways to personalize their Apple Watches.

3. Focus on New Exercise Features

Apple’s Apple Watch has long been seen as a fitness powerhouse, with features geared toward tracking a variety of activities, from running to cycling. But with each new update, Apple aims to add more specialized capabilities, making it even more appealing to fitness enthusiasts.

In watchOS 9, running was a big focus, while cycling took center stage in watchOS 10. As for watchOS 12, the next logical step would be to introduce new exercise tracking features that cater to a different group of fitness fans.

The most likely candidate for a new fitness feature is strength training. Despite the Apple Watch being lauded for its advanced fitness tracking, there’s a significant gap in tracking strength workouts, which many gym-goers have pointed out.

WatchOS 12 could bring a more refined way to track weightlifting, bodybuilding, or other strength-based activities, giving users greater insight into their workouts. Strength tracking could even integrate with Apple’s Health app for a more seamless experience across all Apple devices.

However, the rumors surrounding the next iteration of the Apple Watch Ultra have sparked another possibility: Apple may shift its focus to outdoor activities.

There has been significant speculation that the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is on the way, and given the series’ emphasis on rugged durability, extended battery life, and advanced GPS capabilities, Apple could look to highlight these features in its fitness tracking tools.

One potential feature could be marathon tracking, offering runners the ultimate tool for long-distance events. Another possibility is triathlon support, which would appeal to athletes who require comprehensive workout tracking.

Another exciting rumor involves "rucking," a popular new fitness trend that involves walking with a weighted backpack. Whether it’s pushing the limits for long-distance activities or tracking more specialized exercises, watchOS 12 is expected to take Apple’s fitness offerings to the next level.

The Importance of WWDC 2025 for watchOS

While WWDC is traditionally a developer-centric event, the software updates announced during the conference will shape the experience for millions of Apple Watch users. For those invested in the Apple ecosystem, the annual software updates are always highly anticipated, as they bring fresh features and improved performance to their devices.

WatchOS 12 could be a major step forward for the platform, introducing a host of new capabilities that enhance the functionality and overall experience of the Apple Watch.

The potential introduction of Apple Intelligence into watchOS will likely be one of the most talked-about features. If Apple can successfully integrate AI into its watchOS experience, it could revolutionize the way users interact with their devices.

With AI-powered features like Genmoji, smarter notifications, and improved Siri, watchOS 12 could represent a major leap forward in the smartwatch space.

The Solarium-inspired UI overhaul is another exciting change that could transform how users experience watchOS. If Apple can strike the right balance between bright, transparent design elements and the compact nature of the Apple Watch, it could be the fresh update the platform needs to remain at the forefront of smartwatch innovation.

Finally, the expanded exercise tracking features could make Apple Watch an even more indispensable tool for fitness enthusiasts. Whether it’s strength training, marathon tracking, or specialized outdoor exercises, Apple’s commitment to supporting every kind of fitness activity will only serve to strengthen the Apple Watch’s position as the go-to smartwatch for health and wellness.

Conclusion: Big Changes Ahead for Apple Watch

As WWDC 2025 approaches, it’s clear that watchOS 12 is shaping up to be an exciting release. With new features like Apple Intelligence, a major UI overhaul, and expanded exercise tracking, Apple is likely to build on the success of previous updates while also pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for the Apple Watch. While the event will likely bring plenty of surprises, one thing is certain: the future of the Apple Watch looks brighter than ever.

Whether you’re an AI enthusiast, fitness fanatic, or simply a fan of the Apple ecosystem, watchOS 12 promises to deliver some impressive upgrades to your Apple Watch experience. Keep an eye out for Tim Cook’s keynote on June 9, 2025 – it’s sure to be an exciting moment for all Apple fans.