With less than a month until the Apple event in September, new rumors are constantly surfacing. Leaks emerging today suggest that Touch ID is being included in Apple’s code. The feature could be available for Watch models released in 2026 and beyond. Here are the details.
Touch ID Coming to Apple Watch
While the iPhone 17 series will be the centerpiece of next month’s Apple event, the Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3 may also be unveiled. Internal developer code released by Apple and reviewed by Macworld today also reveals clues about the next-generation Apple Watch, along with the upcoming 5G MacBook Pro and other products.
According to the posts, Apple is exploring ways to bring Touch ID to Apple Watch models released in 2026 and beyond. The “AppleMesa” reference in the code has long been a reference to Touch ID by the tech giant. The fact that this code was written specifically for the 2026 models suggests the idea is still in the prototype phase. This feature isn’t yet expected to be available for devices unveiled this year.
While it’s unclear exactly how Apple will integrate Touch ID into the Apple Watch, there are some clues. The company has filed multiple patents for a biometric system built into the smartwatch’s side button. Other possibilities include the previously rumored under-display optical sensor or a new Touch ID sensor built into the bottom of the watch.
Of course, these claims don’t necessarily mean that the Apple Watch Series 12 or Ultra 4 will definitely feature Touch ID. However, they do clearly indicate that it’s something Apple is working on in the near future. For many users, authenticating with Touch ID while wearing the Apple Watch will be easier than entering a passcode. This feature will also make Apple Pay payments made through the watch more secure.
So, what are your thoughts on this? Share your thoughts in the comments.
