Earlier this week, a report came out and relayed that there are now more than 100 million Apple Watch users across the globe. Clearly, Apple’s bet on wearables paid off and, if anything, helped take the entire category to brand new heights.
Looking ahead, we’re just a few weeks away from Apple introducing new iPhone 13 and Apple Watch models. And though the iPhone 13 will clearly be the main event, the upcoming Apple Watch Series 7, with a new design, is shaping up to be a compelling upgrade.
Apple Watch Series 7 – brand new design
One of the more intriguing aspects of the Apple Watch Series 7 is that it will reportedly boast a new design. Apple hasn’t tinkered with the Apple Watch form factor all that much, so a new design will be exciting to see.
Based on various leaks, the upcoming Apple Watch Series 7 will have flatter edges. In effect, the new Apple Watch will borrow some of the iPhone 12’s design language. While flatter edges will be a nice change of pace, the tradeoff is that the casing itself may be a bit thicker.
Recently, someone took purported Apple Watch Series 7 CAD drawings and created an Apple Watch clone. While there’s no way to know for sure how accurate these models are, keep in mind that leaks tend to become more accurate as we steadily approach an Apple event.
As you can see, the new design, if accurate, is much bulkier and boxier. If this is the new design, I think I might actually prefer the older design as this doesn’t seem as comfortable or as aesthetically pleasing.
Two additional shots are below:
New health features aren’t likely this year
Alongside a new design, the next-gen Apple Watch will reportedly boast smaller bezels. Additionally, the Apple Watch Series 7 will be available in 41mm and 45mm models. Note that previous Apple Watch models came in 40mm and 44mm configurations. Despite this change, existing Apple Watch bands are expected to be compatible with the new Apple Watch models.
Other Apple Watch Series 7 features to look forward to include a faster processor and enhanced ultra-wideband functionality.
Lastly, there has been some speculation that the next-gen Apple Watch will include a blood glucose sensor. This, however, is not something we can expect to see on the next-gen Apple Watch, or perhaps ever. Apple is certainly exploring this type of technology, but there’s no indication that Apple will achieve this medical holy grail in the near future.
