Apple Watch Up for Grabs as Final Round of Big Guessing Game Launches Across CNET Group Sites
Fans of Apple and tech innovation have until September 1, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET to submit their predictions in the third and last phase of the CNET Group Big Guessing Game. As the competition nears its conclusion, contestants are being asked to forecast details of Apple’s major upcoming announcements, including highlights expected at the fall iPhone event. Up for grabs is the grand prize: the newest Apple Watch.
Contest Structure and Timeline
Kicking off on May 19, 2026, at 12:01 p.m. ET, this multi-site competition spans several outlets within the CNET Group, such as CNET, ZDNet, Mashable, PCMag, and Lifehacker. Since launch, the contest has moved through three distinctive segments:
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The initial Round 1 focused exclusively on predictions about updates to Apple’s software platforms, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and visionOS. This round concluded on June 2, and you can find the results here.
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In Round 2, which wrapped up July 21, contestants shifted their focus to Apple’s hardware products, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple Watches, and Vision Pro. For the outcome of this phase, visit here.
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Starting August 18, Round 3 launched, challenging participants to make predictions related to new launches expected at Apple’s autumn event. This round centers on speculations around the iPhone 18 Pro and the foldable iPhone Ultra. Entries for this segment are being accepted until September 1.
How the Game Works
Within each round, participants face five questions designed to test their predictions regarding Apple’s product announcements and keynote reveals. Every correct answer earns a spot in the drawing for the grand prize. Only after Apple officially unveils its new offerings are the valid answers determined. Once the final round closes, each site—among the five participating—will randomly draw and announce a winner soon after Apple’s fall event, awarding them the latest Apple Watch.
Entrants may compete by submitting their guesses on any, or all, of the CNET Group sites. Those who answer all questions across the three rounds can accumulate up to 75 entries in total. Despite multiple correct submissions across outlets, each participant is limited to winning a single prize.
Eligibility and Official Rules
To qualify, participants must be 18 years old or older and reside in the 50 U.S. states or Washington, D.C.. There is no purchase necessary to enter. The sweepstakes is regulated by comprehensive official rules, accessible here. The event is sponsored by Ziff Davis, LLC. Entries from regions where such contests are prohibited will not be accepted.
Disclaimer and Trademarks
Please be aware that Apple does not sponsor or endorse this sweepstakes, nor is there any implied connection. “Apple Watch” remains a registered trademark held by Apple Inc.
As the September 1, 2026, deadline approaches, there’s limited time left to participate for those hoping their Apple predictions will win them the company’s newest wearable. Don’t miss your opportunity to join the final round of this multi-platform guessing game.