Main topic: Apple Watch set to receive a major redesign in 2022.
Key points:
1. The upcoming Apple Watch, called "Watch X," will be the 10th edition of the device.
2. Apple plans to introduce the most significant redesign of the Apple Watch since its launch in 2015.
3. Previous annual updates to the Apple Watch have been minor, with only small changes or additions.
Apple is expected to announce new iPhones and Apple Watches at their upcoming event, but they may face challenges in convincing people to upgrade due to a slowdown in the smartphone market and the option of a cheaper battery replacement.
The Apple Watch Series 9 is expected to have new sensors, including a fourth-generation optical heart rate sensor and a U2 ultra wideband chip for improved Find My capabilities, along with a potential shift in manufacturing using 3D printing and discontinuation of certain watch bands.
Apple unveiled the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, featuring an updated S9 chip, brighter displays, new Double Tap gesture, on-device Siri processing, and a new U2 chip, with preorders starting today and a launch date of September 22.
Apple has announced that watchOS 10, which includes new features such as widgets, redesigned system apps, and advanced workout features, will be available starting September 18 for Apple Watch Series 4 and newer models.
The Apple Watch Series 9 is a minor upgrade over the Series 8, with features like the S9 chip, Double Tap gesture, and Precision Finding for iPhone 15 models being the most significant changes, making it difficult to recommend upgrading for most Series 8 users.
The Apple Watch has transitioned from a luxury fashion accessory to a highly popular health and fitness tracker, leading the global smartwatch market with 22% of shipments in Q2 2023.
Apple's WatchOS 10 update has rendered first-generation Apple Watches nearly useless due to a major change that disabled the side button and moved essential controls to it without an option to remap or customize.
The Apple Watch Series 9 brings new features such as the S9 chip and improved performance, making it a worthwhile upgrade for users with Series 6 or older models, while Series 7 and Series 8 users might not see significant benefits; however, discounted models from previous generations are a good option for those looking to save money.
Apple's first generation Watch, including the Hermes and 18-karat gold Watch Edition models, has officially become obsolete, leading to debates about planned obsolescence.
The original Apple Watch Edition models, which were priced between $10,000 and $17,000, have been deemed "obsolete" by Apple and are no longer supported, leaving them as mere pieces of gold rather than functional timekeepers.
Apple has classified the original Apple Watch as obsolete, meaning it is no longer eligible for repairs, and customers may not find parts available at Apple Stores and Authorized Service Providers.
Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that the 2024 Apple Watch will not offer significant innovative experiences, such as a micro-LED display or blood glucose monitoring, but there may still be the possibility of a high-end "Apple Watch X" that offers more changes.
Apple has added first-generation Apple Watch models to its list of obsolete products, meaning they are no longer eligible for repairs or service, while the Apple Watch Series 1 has been classified as vintage and may only be eligible for repairs if parts are available.
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts that there are currently no signs of the development of an "Apple Watch Ultra 3" and believes that the likelihood of a new Apple Watch Ultra being released in 2024 is decreasing, with a potential launch in 2025 or 2026 instead.
The release of an Apple Watch Ultra 3 in 2024 is uncertain, with a decrease in likelihood as the end of 2023 approaches, and the absence of a new model may be attributed to the need for additional time to develop health features and address production issues, according to supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
