As the launch of the Apple Watch Series 10 approaches, anticipation is mounting within the tech community. Known informally as “Apple Watch X” or “Apple Watch 10,” this new iteration is expected to be unveiled alongside the iPhone 16 at Apple’s “Glowtime” event on September 9. Here’s an overview of what we know so far about Apple’s upcoming smartwatch.
Release Date and Pricing
The Apple Watch 10 is set to debut on September 9, a shift from Apple’s usual Tuesday event schedule. The company’s decision to hold the event on a Monday deviates from its traditional patterns but is confirmed. Previous Apple Watch releases have followed a Tuesday schedule: the Series 9 on September 12, 2023; Series 8 on September 7, 2022; and Series 7 on September 14, 2021. This year, the event will be livestreamed on Apple’s YouTube channel at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET.
Pricing for the new model is expected to remain consistent with its predecessor. The Apple Watch 10 is likely to start at $399, the same entry price as the Series 9. Here are the anticipated price points:
- Apple Watch 10 (41mm, GPS only): $399
- Apple Watch 10 (45mm, GPS only): $429
- Apple Watch 10 (41mm, GPS + cellular): $499
- Apple Watch 10 (45mm, GPS + cellular): $529
This pricing structure has been stable since the Series 3, with only minor adjustments over the years.
Design Enhancements
The Apple Watch 10 is rumored to feature a larger display, approaching the size of the Apple Watch Ultra 2’s screen. The Series 9 display ranges between 1.6 to 1.8 inches, whereas the Ultra’s measures 1.9 inches. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the Series 10 could sport a display nearing two inches. Analysts Ming-Chi Kuo and Gurman suggest the new model will come in 45mm and 49mm sizes, a departure from the current 41mm and 45mm options. Additionally, a new magnetic band mechanism is anticipated, simplifying band swaps.
Health Features
Significant health-related upgrades are rumored, including a blood pressure monitor, sleep apnea sensor, and glucose monitor. However, Gurman indicates that the blood pressure feature is encountering technical difficulties and might be delayed or omitted from the final release. This feature, if included, is expected to provide baseline readings rather than precise measurements. Similarly, the sleep apnea sensor, which relies on blood oxygen levels, faces challenges due to ongoing legal disputes involving Masimo Corp.
Performance and Battery Life
The Series 10 will likely be powered by a new chip, laying the groundwork for future AI capabilities. Despite this, advanced AI features such as Apple Intelligence may not be immediately available on the watch. Reports suggest that the new model will benefit from a more energy-efficient OLED display, potentially extending battery life. Users may expect up to two days of battery life, an improvement welcomed by those currently using the Series 9.
Software and Features
The Apple Watch 10 will ship with watchOS 11, which was previewed at WWDC 2024. This update introduces several new features, including:
- “Check In” for location and safety monitoring
- Smart Stacks support for Live Activities
- “Vitals” app for tracking key health metrics
- Enhanced cycle tracking with support for pregnant users
- New training load measurements
- Translate app for multilingual communication
- Improved “Double Tap” functionality for scrolling
- “Tap to Cash” for easy Apple Cash transactions
WatchOS 11 will be compatible with Series 6 and newer models, as well as the second-generation Apple Watch SE, and is expected to roll out in mid-September.
Final Thoughts
The Apple Watch 10 promises to be a notable upgrade if it delivers on its health monitoring features. However, potential delays or omissions in these features might make it worth waiting for the next iteration. Additionally, keep an eye out for the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and possibly a new Apple Watch SE, which could offer alternative choices for prospective buyers.
