Apple Watch Series 12: specs, who it fits and compatible phones
Apple Watch Series 12 is a smartwatch released in 2026 that works with iPhone. It lists Multi-system GNSS, 5ATM and Apple Pay.
Specifications
| Release year | 2026 |
|---|---|
| Case size | 42 / 46 mm |
| Display | OLED, Always-On |
| Brightness | 2000 nits |
| Battery as listed | Up to 24 hours (10 workout hours) |
| Water rating | 5ATM |
| Glass | Ceramic Shield 2 (aluminum model) |
| Case material | Aluminum / titanium / ceramic |
| GPS type | Multi-system GNSS |
| Operating system | watchOS 27 |
| Works with | iPhone |
| Connection | eSIM · 5G |
| Contactless wallet | Apple Pay |
| Plan needed | None |
| Health sensors | SpO2, HRV, Skin temperature, ECG, Readiness score, Sleep apnea |
| Safety features | SOS, Fall detection |
Who it fits
- Works with iPhone.
- Lists SOS or fall detection, see our guide for older adults.
- Lists an exact water rating of 5ATM or higher.
How it compares
Closest models from Apple
| Model | Release year | Case size | Battery as listed | Water rating | GPS type | Works with |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Watch Series 11 | 2025 | 42 / 46 mm | Up to 24 hours | 5ATM | Multi-system GNSS | iOS only |
| Apple Watch SE 3 | 2025 | 40 / 44 mm | Up to 18 hours | 5ATM | Standard GPS | iOS only |
| Apple Watch Series 10 | 2024 | 42 / 46 mm | Up to 18 hours (36 hours in low power mode) | IP6X | Standard GPS | iOS only |
Compared with Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Series 12 lists a newer release year (2026 against 2025) and Aluminum / titanium / ceramic case material, where Apple Watch Series 11 lists Aluminum / titanium.
Compared with Apple Watch SE 3, Apple Watch Series 12 lists a newer release year (2026 against 2025), Aluminum / titanium / ceramic case material, where Apple Watch SE 3 lists Aluminum and case sizes of 42 / 46 mm against 40 / 44 mm.
Compared with Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Series 12 lists a newer release year (2026 against 2024) and Aluminum / titanium / ceramic case material, where Apple Watch Series 10 lists Aluminum / titanium.
Only values listed exactly are compared.
Phone compatibility and plan
No plan is listed as needed. Has eSIM or LTE, so it can work without the phone if you add a carrier plan.
Sensors and features are listed as the maker names them and are not medical measurements.
Also available: Apple Watch Series 11, which differs in an older release year (2025 against 2026) and Aluminum / titanium case material, where Apple Watch Series 12 lists Aluminum / titanium / ceramic.
Related guides and lists
- Battery life explained
- Phone compatibility
- Water resistance ratings
- Sensors explained
- Apple smartwatches
- All models
Last verified September 26, 2026
Features change with updates. Check the maker's current details. See our methodology