Leaked Code Suggests Apple May Introduce Touch ID in Next Year’s Apple Watch, Marking a Major Shift in Security Features

We’re just weeks away from Apple’s reveal of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Series 11, but internal code leaks suggest a major update may be in store for the 2026 lineup: support for Touch ID. According to Macworld, leaked code references “AppleMesa” — Apple’s longstanding internal codename for Touch ID — indicating that biometric authentication is being tested for Apple Watch models due next year. This feature remains strictly internal and prototypes only; none of the current or upcoming 2025 models include any Touch ID references,according to 9To5Mac .

DigiTimes previously reported that the 2026 Apple Watch will double the number of sensor components, likely tied to expanded health features. It’s possible these additional components include hardware to support Touch ID .

Macworld notes that Touch ID on the Watch could offer a quicker—and more secure—alternative to entering a passcode, though the current method of double-clicking the side button for authentication works well. It remains unclear whether Touch ID would replace or complement that flow .

MacRumors adds further context, confirming that the leaked code not only hints at Touch ID in prototype 2026 models but also reveals new model identifiers (“N237,” “N238,” and “N240”) slated to be powered by a new chip, the T8320. This marks a significant departure from the current T8310 architecture seen in Series 9–11 devices. The 2026 lineup is internally referred to as “Watch8,” distinguishing it from the “Watch7” family of the previous three generations .

In summary, while there’s no guarantee Apple will ship Touch ID in the Apple Watch Series 12 or Ultra 4, the internal code strongly suggests the company is exploring the feature. Combined with the new T8320 chip and broader design changes, 2026 may bring Apple Watch’s most substantial leap yet in both security and hardware capabilities.