Everything We Know About the Upcoming Apple Watch X

The anticipation surrounding Apple’s upcoming product releases is always high, but this year, the buzz around the rumored Apple Watch X is particularly electrifying. As Apple approaches the 10th anniversary of its first smartwatch, speculation has reached fever pitch. Yet, while the Apple Watch X may not seem radically different at first glance, there are enough intriguing details to make enthusiasts eagerly await its debut.

Apple is set to host its annual September event, where it’s expected to unveil the Apple Watch X (or Series 10) alongside the iPhone 16. Historically, Apple’s September events have been the stage for launching new iPhones and Apple Watches, but this year’s event holds special significance as it marks a decade since the first Apple Watch was introduced. Much like the iPhone X, which celebrated the iPhone’s 10th anniversary with a design overhaul, the Apple Watch X is rumored to be a commemorative model with significant enhancements.

Design Evolution: Slimmer and Sleeker

One of the most anticipated changes in the Apple Watch X is its design. Over the years, the Apple Watch has seen incremental increases in screen size, and this trend is expected to continue. Reports suggest that the new model may offer even larger screen options, potentially growing from the current 41mm and 45mm sizes to 45mm and 49mm. This expanded screen real estate, coupled with a slimmer profile, is likely to appeal to both tech enthusiasts and fashion-conscious users.

Innovative Magnetic Bands

A notable design change could come in the form of how the watch bands attach to the device. Traditionally, Apple Watch bands have slid into the sides of the chassis and locked into place. However, the Apple Watch X may introduce a magnetic attachment system, which could free up internal space for larger batteries or other components. This magnetic mechanism would not only streamline the design but also improve the overall user experience by making band changes quicker and more intuitive.

Advancements in Health Technology

Apple has steadily shifted the Apple Watch from a fashion accessory to a powerful health and wellness tool, and the Apple Watch X is expected to build on this reputation. One of the most talked-about features is blood-pressure monitoring, which would allow users to track their blood pressure levels and maintain a journal of these readings. Although this feature might not provide precise systolic and diastolic measurements, it would still offer valuable insights into users’ cardiovascular health.

Another significant potential upgrade is the introduction of a sleep apnea detection system. This would represent a major leap forward in the Apple Watch’s sleep-tracking capabilities, bringing it closer to competing devices like the Fitbit and Oura Ring. By monitoring sleep and breathing patterns, this feature could alert users to potential health issues, allowing them to seek medical advice if necessary.

Moreover, there are ongoing rumors about non-invasive blood glucose monitoring, a feature that could revolutionize the way people manage diabetes. While it’s unlikely that this technology will be ready in time for the Apple Watch X, its development underscores Apple’s commitment to making its smartwatch an indispensable health companion.

The Uncertain Future of Blood Oxygen Monitoring

A cloud of uncertainty hangs over the future of the blood-oxygen monitoring feature, which has been a staple in recent Apple Watch models. Due to a patent dispute with medical device maker Masimo, this feature has been removed from the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models in the United States. Whether the Apple Watch X will include this functionality remains to be seen, as the legal battle could impact its availability in future models.

MicroLED Display: A Glimpse Into the Future

For years, there have been whispers of Apple incorporating MicroLED technology into its devices, and the Apple Watch X might finally be the first to showcase this upgrade. MicroLED displays are more energy-efficient than the OLED screens currently used in Apple Watches, offering brighter visuals and better responsiveness from all angles. However, reports are divided on when this technology will debut. Some analysts suggest it might not arrive until 2025 or 2026, leaving fans to wonder whether the Apple Watch X will be the one to feature this next-generation display.

Why the Hype?

Despite the incremental nature of many of these updates, the Apple Watch X remains highly anticipated. The combination of a refined design, new health features, and potentially groundbreaking display technology could make this model a worthy successor to the original Apple Watch. For those who have been following Apple’s journey in wearable technology, the Apple Watch X represents not just a product refresh, but a milestone in the evolution of smartwatches.

As we approach the September event, the excitement is palpable. Whether or not the Apple Watch X lives up to the hype, it’s clear that Apple continues to push the boundaries of what a smartwatch can do. And for millions of users worldwide, that alone is reason enough to stay tuned.