Apple Mandates 64-Bit Support and watchOS 26 SDK for App Store Apps
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Did You Know? …
Developers preparing their applications for the App Store will soon face new requirements from Apple. Starting in April 2026, all watchOS apps submitted must include 64-bit support and be built using the latest watchOS 26 SDK. This move signifies Apple’s continued push towards modernizing its platform and ensuring optimal performance across its devices.
Pro Tip: Ensure your progress environment is up-to-date to seamlessly integrate these new requirements.
To comply with these upcoming changes, developers are advised to enable 64-bit support within their Xcode projects. The recommended approach is to utilize the default build setting of “Standard architectures,” which generates a single binary containing 64-bit code. This ensures broader compatibility and adherence to Apple’s evolving standards for watchOS applications.
Testing ARM64 compatibility is crucial. Developers can leverage the Xcode Simulator for this purpose. Additionally, testing on physical devices like the Apple Watch Series 9 or 10, Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), or Apple Watch Ultra 2 running watchOS 11 or the watchOS 26 beta will provide real-world performance insights.
What are your initial thoughts on this upcoming change for watchOS app development?
How will this impact your current development workflow?
understanding the shift to 64-Bit for watchOS Apps
Apple’s decision to mandate 64-bit support for watchOS apps reflects a broader industry trend towards more efficient and powerful mobile applications. 64-bit architecture allows for greater memory access and improved processing capabilities, which are essential for the increasingly sophisticated features found on Apple Watch.
The introduction of the watchOS 26 SDK signifies Apple’s ongoing commitment to innovation in its wearable technology. Developers who embrace these updates early will be better positioned to leverage new features and deliver enhanced user experiences.
Historically, Apple has phased in architectural requirements to give developers ample time to adapt. This latest directive follows a similar pattern, providing a clear timeline for the transition.
Frequently Asked Questions About watchOS App Requirements
- What is the primary keyword for this article on watchOS app development?
- The primary keyword is “watchOS 26 SDK.”
- When do watchOS apps need 64-bit support and the watchOS 26 SDK?
- Starting April 2026, watchOS apps uploaded to App store Connect must include 64-bit support and be built with the watchOS 26 SDK.
- How can developers enable 64-bit support in their watchOS projects?
- Developers can enable 64-bit support by using the default Xcode build setting of “Standard architectures” to build a single binary with 64-bit code.
- Where can developers test ARM64 compatibility for their watchOS apps?
- ARM64 compatibility can be tested in the Xcode Simulator and on specific Apple Watch models running compatible watchOS versions.
- What Apple Watch models are recommended for testing watchOS 26 beta features?
- Apple Watch series 9 or 10, Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), or Apple Watch Ultra 2 running watchOS 11 or watchOS 26 beta are recommended for testing.
- Where can I find more information about the SDKs included
