The Apple Watch celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, and while the product has seen significant technological advancements, its design remains strikingly similar to the original model introduced in 2014. Despite persistent rumors about a major redesign, such changes have yet to materialize. But is a radical redesign of the Apple Watch truly necessary?
Evolution of Apple Watch Design
From its inception through Series 3, the Apple Watch’s design saw minimal changes. Apple introduced new colors and materials, but the core design of the watch case remained largely unchanged.
The first significant redesign came with the Apple Watch Series 4, which featured a larger display that curved with the bezels. This model also had a thinner, slightly curvier case, yet still retained the essence of the original Apple Watch.
Three generations later, the Apple Watch Series 7 introduced another design update, albeit a subtle one. The display grew larger with thinner bezels, but the overall case design remained quite similar to the Series 4.
In 2022, the Apple Watch Ultra debuted, showcasing a new design language. However, this model is a variant within the lineup, while the Series 9 maintained the design of its predecessors.
Speculation on a Redesigned Apple Watch
Rumors suggested that Apple might unveil a redesigned “Apple Watch X” this year to mark the product’s 10th anniversary. Bloomberg described this potential redesign as the “biggest overhaul yet,” featuring a thinner profile and a new magnetic mechanism for the bands.
However, recent reports indicate that Apple may have abandoned plans for a radical redesign. Instead, the Series 10 models are expected to feature modest changes, such as larger displays and potentially thinner cases, but will otherwise look similar to current models.
This wouldn’t be the first time rumors of a radical redesign proved incorrect. In 2021, leaks hinted at a “flat-edged” Apple Watch Series 7, which ultimately did not materialize. Whether these rumors were unfounded or Apple decided against the redesign remains unclear. Perhaps Apple concluded that a radical redesign is unnecessary.
A Design That Works
The prevailing sentiment among many users is that the current Apple Watch design is effective and aesthetically pleasing. It strikes a balance between technology and elegance, offering comfort and functionality.
Some users have expressed interest in round smartwatches, but the consensus among many Apple Watch enthusiasts is to retain the current design. A “flat-edged” watch, in particular, is seen as potentially uncomfortable and unappealing.
Ultimately, while incremental improvements such as a thinner profile or larger display are welcome, a radical redesign is not deemed necessary by many users. Instead, enhancements like a larger battery and new health sensors are of greater interest.
