ⓒ Foundry
what was expected
Like the iPhone X, the Apple Watch Series Rumors have it that there will be radical changes, including a new, flatter design with a much thinner case and a new magnetic band attachment mechanism.
There were once rumors that the Apple Watch Series 7 would undergo a major redesign. ⓒ Front Page Tech
Early rumors said a blood pressure monitor would be added that would alert you if it detects high blood pressure. Adding this feature would have further strengthened Apple Watch’s health-related features and helped users recognize underlying conditions.
Considering that the Apple Watch was first unveiled as One More Thing exactly 10 years before the Glow Time event, it was only natural that Apple would mark the occasion with a more sophisticated form factor and new health sensors. Glow Time 2024 was a highly anticipated event for the largest Apple Watch update ever.
What I got in return
Of course, that didn’t happen. There were only incremental upgrades, with few meaningful new features.
The iPhone manufacturer claims that the Series 10 has an entirely new design, but that’s not how users see it. The overall case still looks the same as the previous model. Apple boasted that the thickness is about 10% thinner, but compared to the Series 9 (10.7mm to 9.7mm), it is only 1mm, making it difficult for users to feel it. We admit that reducing the thickness of a cutting-edge smartwatch by 1 mm is not an easy task, but it is not enough to call it a completely new design.
The Apple Watch Series 10 is cool, but it can hardly be considered a completely new design. ⓒ Apple
In addition, the weight of the aluminum model is about 2g lighter. It is not a change that will have a significant impact on daily life. However, titanium models are much lighter than their older stainless steel counterparts.
In terms of health functions, it is known that blood pressure monitoring function is not supported due to engineering issues. Meanwhile, Apple has been unable to find an alternative to the blood oxygen sensor, which it no longer offers in the U.S. due to a patent dispute. This sensor appears to be disabled on the Series 10, but even so, there’s no sign that Apple will be turning it on any time soon.
The Apple Watch Series 10 can detect sleep apnea, but the Series 9 and Ultra 2 also offer this feature, so it’s not exclusive. In short, Apple’s 2024 smartwatch is a step back when it comes to health monitoring.
Aside from the Ultra, the Apple Watch hasn’t changed much since its launch in 2015. ⓒ Jim Martin / Foundry
However, the Series 10 is equipped with a new built-in speaker, allowing Apple Watch users to play music or podcasts without using AirPods. However, it is best not to use it in public places. It also brought over other Apple Watch Ultra 2 exclusive features, such as a water depth gauge (with some limitations) and a water temperature sensor.
For users who have been using Series 6, there are definitely notable changes. But is it a groundbreaking change commemorating the 10th anniversary like the iPhone X? Not really.
the hopeful side
It is disappointing that the two Apple Watch update rumors did not come true. The aesthetics of smartwatches have been steadily improving, but they ultimately look the same. The size has changed and the bezel has shrunk, but the structure and method of use have barely changed.
It is not time to give up hope yet. The Apple Watch was announced in September 2014, but didn’t go on sale until April 2015. Therefore, there is a possibility that Apple will celebrate its 10th anniversary by bringing a new model in 2025. You could get a special edition with the rumored magnetic band, or you could go slimmer and give up some of the advanced health features.
There are rumors that the iPhone 17 Air will also be released with a focus on ultra-thin body rather than advanced features. Smartwatches may also adopt a strategy where users choose between sophisticated design or advanced features.
It’s still too early to guess which Apple Watch will be released next year. Plans may change, the prototype may be axed, and AirPower may be locked in an underground cellar forever. But now it will not be easy for the rumors about the Apple Watch to be credible.
editor@itworld.co.kr
