As Apple approaches the release of its tenth-anniversary Apple Watch Series 10, many are eager to see how it stacks up against its predecessor, the Series 9. Over recent years, Apple’s updates to the Apple Watch have been incremental, but this milestone iteration promises significant changes. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s new and different between the Series 10 and the Series 9.
Design and Sizes
The Apple Watch Series 10 is set to make notable design changes, particularly in its size options. Reports suggest that Apple will move away from the smaller 41mm model of the Series 9, introducing two new sizes: a 46mm and a larger 49mm variant. This shift could be a strategic move to accommodate more features and potentially a larger battery.
The Series 10 may retain the slightly curved glass of previous models, as opposed to adopting the flat-screen design seen in the Apple Watch Ultra. While the elimination of the smaller size may disappoint some users, the introduction of larger sizes aims to enhance functionality and user experience.
Bands
The new Series 10 models are expected to be compatible with existing straps from the Series 9, particularly for the 46mm version. The larger 49mm model will likely be compatible with bands from the Apple Watch Ultra, providing continuity for users upgrading within the same ecosystem. However, Apple’s “Finewoven” material, designed as a leather alternative, may be discontinued.
Anticipated updates include new band colors and materials, with rumors suggesting a refreshed Milanese Loop band made from titanium.
Performance and Features
The Series 10 is anticipated to feature a new S10 chip, promising faster performance and improved efficiency. This chip is expected to enhance overall speed and possibly introduce optimizations for AI, although specific AI functionalities are not anticipated in this release.
In terms of health features, the Series 10 may include advancements such as hypertension and sleep apnea detection. However, these features face hurdles. Hypertension detection has encountered reliability issues, while sleep apnea detection is complicated by legal disputes over blood oxygen measurement technology. Apple may either delay these features or introduce them with limited functionality.
Battery and Charging
Battery life has been a persistent concern for Apple Watch users, with most models offering around 18 hours of use per charge. The Series 10’s larger sizes may allow for a bigger battery, potentially extending usage to two days. Current details on battery size remain unconfirmed, but any improvement in battery life would be a welcome development for users.
Models and Prices
While there may be a slight increase in pricing, it is unlikely that the Apple Watch Series 10 will see a dramatic price hike. The Series 9 currently retails at:
- $400 for the 41mm aluminum Wi-Fi model
- $430 for the 45mm aluminum Wi-Fi model
- $700 for the 41mm stainless steel cellular version
- $750 for the 45mm stainless steel cellular version
Summary
The Apple Watch Series 10 is poised to be a substantial upgrade, particularly with its new size options and potential enhancements in performance and battery life. While it may not introduce groundbreaking changes for those satisfied with the Series 9, the larger screen sizes and anticipated new features offer compelling reasons to consider upgrading. As the anniversary edition, the Series 10 might also surprise with additional, unforeseen features. The final details will be revealed at the upcoming launch event, but expectations are high for this milestone release.
