As Apple gears up for its anticipated product reveal event, tech enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the unveiling of the Apple Watch Series 10, also known as “Apple Watch 10” or “Apple Watch X.” Set to be announced alongside the iPhone 16 in September, the new smartwatch promises to bring significant upgrades and new features.
Launch Date and Pricing
The Apple Watch 10 is expected to make its debut on September 9, 2024. This date diverges from Apple’s traditional pattern of holding major September events on Tuesdays, with the company opting for a Monday presentation this year. Past announcements have typically been on Tuesdays, with notable exceptions such as the 2022 event held on a Wednesday.
In terms of pricing, the Apple Watch 10 is projected to maintain the same starting price as its predecessor, the Series 9. The anticipated price points are as follows:
- 41mm GPS only: $399
- 45mm GPS only: $429
- 41mm GPS + Cellular: $499
- 45mm GPS + Cellular: $529
Design and Display Enhancements
The Apple Watch 10 is rumored to feature a larger display, potentially approaching the size of the Apple Watch Ultra 2’s 1.9-inch screen. According to industry insiders like Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the new model will offer sizes of 45mm and 49mm, up from the current 41mm and 45mm options. This design update is expected to provide a more immersive user experience while maintaining a sleek profile.
Gurman also suggests that the Watch 10 will incorporate a new magnetic mechanism for swapping bands, enhancing convenience for users. Additionally, a new color option might be introduced, although details remain unspecified.
New Features and Health Monitoring
Among the anticipated innovations, the Apple Watch 10 may include advanced health monitoring tools such as a blood pressure monitor, a sleep apnea sensor, and a glucose monitor. However, the blood pressure sensor has encountered testing challenges, which might delay its introduction until a future model. If included, this feature will not provide precise readings but will establish a baseline to monitor deviations.
The sleep apnea sensor, which relies on blood-oxygen levels, faces similar hurdles. The functionality of the blood-oxygen tool has been restricted due to a legal issue with Masimo Corp., impacting the development of the new sensor.
Performance and Battery Life
The Apple Watch 10 will be equipped with a new processor, laying the groundwork for future AI-powered features. However, the rollout of Apple’s new AI suite for the Watch may take some time.
Reports suggest that the Apple Watch 10 will benefit from a more energy-efficient OLED display, potentially extending battery life. This improvement could be a welcome upgrade for users seeking enhanced longevity from their smartwatch.
Software: watchOS 11
The Apple Watch 10 will launch with watchOS 11, which will also be available for the Series 6 and newer models, as well as the second-generation Apple Watch SE. Announced at WWDC 2024, watchOS 11 introduces several new features, including:
Check In functionality
- Enhanced Smart Stacks with Live Activities support
- Vitals app for tracking key health metrics
- Improved cycle tracking with pregnancy support
- Training load metrics for workout analysis
- Translate app for real-time language translation
- Double Tap and Tap to Cash features for improved interactivity and payments
Conclusion
The Apple Watch 10 holds promise with its anticipated advancements and new features. If the rumored health tools are successfully implemented, it could offer significant benefits for users monitoring conditions like sleep apnea and hypertension. However, if these features face continued delays, potential buyers might consider waiting for the next generation. Additionally, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and a possible new Apple Watch SE are also on the horizon, adding further options for prospective buyers.
