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.
The main topic of the article is the availability of emergency features on different smartwatch brands.
The key points are:
1. Apple Watch offers fall detection, emergency SOS calls, and satellite messaging for emergencies.
2. Google Pixel Watch offers emergency SOS calls and fall detection, but only the LTE version allows direct contact with emergency services.
3. Garmin watches offer emergency contacts, emergency assistance calls, and satellite messaging through InReach devices.
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's long-time partner, Hermès, has removed all mentions of Apple Watch and compatible bands from its website, raising questions about the future of their partnership as Apple moves away from leather for its watch bands and cases.
Apple is replacing leather wristbands on its Apple Watch Series with a new "FineWoven" material as part of its effort to become more environmentally friendly and carbon neutral.
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.
Google has confirmed that there is currently no way to repair a broken Pixel Watch screen, leaving customers with limited options for repairing their smartwatches.
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 declared the Series 0 Apple Watches and the solid gold Apple Watch Edition obsolete, meaning they are no longer eligible for repairs and no more parts will be created for them.
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.