Apple is gearing up to commemorate the 10th anniversary of its groundbreaking Apple Watch with the development of a new smartwatch known as the Watch X. As per insights from Apple analyst Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, the anticipated Watch X might make its debut in 2024 or 2025, considering that the Apple smartwatch category was introduced in 2014 and officially released the following year.
The Watch X is poised to bring forth several exciting upgrades, including a redesigned form factor to accommodate a larger battery, the incorporation of a microLED display for enhanced visual brilliance, and the introduction of blood pressure monitoring capabilities.
Gurman’s latest newsletter, “Power On,” also offers intriguing insights into the potential changes in the strap design of the upcoming Apple Watch X. According to the newsletter, Apple is contemplating a shift to a magnetic strap design that would affix to the chassis, thereby optimizing internal space. This design alteration might be introduced with the Watch X or even with the forthcoming Apple Watch 9, slated for release this year.
Turning the focus to the Apple Watch 9, Gurman suggests that this model might not bring significant changes. The current sizes of 41 and 45 millimeters are likely to be retained, with potential variations like LTE or Wi-Fi variants.
While the Watch 9 may incorporate faster processors and introduce new color options, Gurman acknowledges that the overall upgrades could be more incremental in nature, catering to existing Apple Watch users rather than significantly changing the appeal for potential new customers. In fact, he points out that in terms of new features, the Watch 9 might represent one of the most modest updates in the product’s history.
The anticipated release date for the Watch Series 9 is expected to coincide with the launch of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro smartphones, tentatively set for September 12.
Beyond the insights on Apple smartwatches, Gurman’s newsletter also delves into revelations about upcoming Mac models powered by the next-generation M3 series SoC. These new-generation Macs, potentially arriving later this year, might utilize the M3 SoC for improved performance and efficiency.
The foundational M3 SoC, boasting eight CPU and ten GPU cores, could power a range of devices including the base MacBook Pro, 13-inch MacBook Air, 15-inch MacBook Air, Mac mini, and iMac. Additionally, this SoC might also be integrated into the upcoming iPad Pro.
For more performance-intensive applications, Apple is expected to introduce the M3 Pro silicone chip, which could feature up to 14 CPU and 20 GPU cores. This higher-tier SoC could be utilized in devices such as the 14-inch MacBook Pro, 16-inch MacBook Pro, and Mac Mini.
There’s also speculation about an even more potent M3 Max variant, equipped with up to 16 CPU and 40 GPU cores, potentially designed for devices like the 14-inch MacBook Pro, 16-inch MacBook Pro, and the innovative Mac Studio. Lastly, Apple’s ambitious plans extend to an M3 Ultra SoC, featuring an impressive configuration of up to 32 CPU and 80 GPU cores, with potential applications in the Mac Studio and Mac Pro models.