Apple Watch: Lots of new features on the way and… a new design?

The Cupertino-based company could shake up the Apple Watch lineup with many new features, to the point of talking about a true revolution. It was revealed by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, one of the most authoritative figures in the tech scene, in a lengthy editorial.

After more than ten years since the launch of the first wearable, the company would be ready to venture into a new product line and a design overhaul.

Apple is considering major new features for the Watch line

The first Apple Watch made its debut with an aesthetic that is now highly recognizable: the lineup features square displays with rounded corners while at the software level it offers an iPhone-like experience, for use that continues seamlessly within the brand’s ecosystem.

Over this time, Cupertino has focused mainly on the evolution of the wearables lineup, introducing thinner models, larger versions and the famous Ultra variant, dedicated to athletes seeking a premium device built for durability.

In addition to structural improvements, Apple has also introduced many health monitoring improvements, athletic activity, and emergency features, such as the integrated ECG, blood pressure monitoring (in the US) and sleep apnea detection, satellite connectivity and so on.

The success of the Apple Watch lineup is undeniable and shows no signs of slowing down: according to Counterpoint Research, Apple Watch sales rose 21% in the first quarter of the year, while other companies posted a decline.

Design change for the Watch series

According to Gurman, the Apple Watch could be about to undergo a revolutionary change, something capable of ushering the series into a new era. However, it won’t be an immediate move: the upcoming Series 12 and Ultra 4 are expected to receive some internal improvements and there are rumors of the return of the ceramic case, but nothing earth-shattering.

The most important innovations would come later: in Apple’s future there are new devices in the Watch family such as display-free fitness trackers, which are gaining traction at the moment. A rival to Google Fitbit Air wouldn’t be that unrealistic, given the success of this wearable.

Rounded screens had also been considered, but Gurman considers this change of style unlikely; nonetheless, Cupertino would be exploring new designs, form factors and sizes.

Moreover Apple would also be considering new affordable solutions, in addition to the current SE model. Still, it’s to be seen how things will evolve, since at the moment these are rumors.