Apple Releases macOS 11, watchOS 10, and watchOS 9 Updates to Keep iMessage and FaceTime Working on Older Devices
Apple today released macOS 11.7.11, watchOS 10.6.2, and watchOS 9.6.4 for older Macs and Apple Watches that can run the current watchOS and macOS 26.
According to Apple’s release notes, the updates extend the certification to include device functionality, iMessage, and FaceTime usage. The certification update ensures that these operations will continue to operate after January 2027.
On a Mac, the update can be installed through the Settings app, while on the Apple Watch, updates can be installed through the Apple Watch app on the iPhone.
watchOS 9.6.4 and the previous update are the last versions of watchOS that support devices such as iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X, which are limited to iOS 16 and cannot be updated to iOS 17. watchOS 10.6.2 is available for Apple Watch Series 4, Apple Watch Series 5, and the original Apple Watch.
Update: Apple also released macOS Catalina Security Update 2026-001 and watchOS 6.3.1 for older devices.
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