Ahead of iPhone 18 Pro launch, report says Apple Watch may soon get a big design upgrade

Apple is reportedly working on some big changes to the Apple Watch lineup. The company is said to be testing a bunch of new models, including those without a display at all, potentially competing against the likes of Whoop or Google's Fitbit Air.

In Short

• Apple is testing new Watch designs, screenless versions
• The redesign review spans cheaper concepts, larger choices and pricier editions
• Though such a big update won't happen this year

As we get closer to September, all eyes are on Apple for the launch of the next-generation iPhones. This year, the company is expected to roll out a foldable iPhone, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, marking a big change in the iPhone lineup. But at the same time, a new report says that Apple may be working on a similarly big change for the Apple Watch too.

As per a report by Bloomberg, Apple is rethinking Apple Watch devices. The company is believed to be exploring new Watch devices, some which may ditch a display entirely.

This comes at a time when new wearables have grown in popularity, such as screenless fitness tracks – Whoop or Google’s Fitbit Air. Keep in mind that apart from the release of the Apple Watch Ultra in 2022, Apple’s Watch lineup has remained largely unchanged in recent years.

Over time, Apple Watch devices have improved with better water resistance, cellular support, satellite connectivity, and the works, but the overall concept is largely intact. This formula has continued to work though, even as Apple faces stiff competition in the wearable space. As per Counterpoint Research, Apple Watch sales continue to rise while some rivals like Samsung have recently recorded declines.

Apple is testing new Watch devices

The report states that Apple has not settled on a final direction, but it is examining changes across the range, from more affordable options beyond the current SE to premium models above the Ultra and Hermes.

This also includes devices without displays or different screen types and sizes. While Apple is rumoured to be considering a round display too, such a design is unlikely to make it to the market.

Apple launched the first Apple Watch more than a decade ago with a design and interface that felt new at the time, while still resembling a traditional square wristwatch.

In recent months, Apple’s industrial design team has reportedly explored several directions as it adapts to the growth of smart rings and screenless fitness bands, which are said to be cheaper, lighter and more convenient for many users.

Alongside possible new form factors, Apple is also said to be looking at making its wrist-worn devices more AI-centric as it rolls out Siri AI and works on smarter health tracking.

The company also has long-term plans to overhaul the Health app under Eddy Cue, who took over responsibility for that area last year and is described as a fan of Whoop and Oura products.

When can we see a new Apple Watch?

Despite the work going on behind the scenes, Apple is unlikely to bring a big overhaul to the Apple Watch soon.

In the near term, however, Apple is expected to continue with smaller updates, with the upcoming Series 12 and Ultra 4 tipped to bring performance improvements, new colours and bands, and fresh health and fitness features. A ceramic case option could also return this year.

That is, do not expect Apple to reinvent the Apple Watch during the September event this year, when we expect to see the Watch Series 12 and the Watch Ultra 4 being launched alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series and the iPhone Fold. Though Apple is yet to announce the event.

- Ends