Key Points:
- Heart Rate Sensor Upgrades: Series 10 to feature advanced health tracking, including potential sleep apnea detection.
- New Display and Design: Thinner models with larger displays, better water resistance, and new watch faces.
- Stock Running Low: Apple Watch Series 9 and SE 2 are in short supply as new models prepare for launch.
Apple is gearing up to launch the new Apple Watch Series 10 and Ultra 3 models, which are rumored to feature some significant upgrades. Among these, an advanced heart rate and ECG sensor is expected to bring new health functionalities, including sleep apnea detection. This feature has been widely anticipated, but earlier versions were thought to rely on blood oxygen monitoring, which is currently disabled on U.S. models due to patent issues.
Sleep Apnea Detection Sleep apnea, a condition where breathing stops during sleep, can cause daytime fatigue and other health problems. Traditionally, it’s diagnosed using specialized sleep studies and often treated with a CPAP machine. However, the upcoming Apple Watch models might help users detect signs of sleep apnea through enhanced sleep tracking. The device will gather data over several nights to provide insights into sleep quality and possible apnea.
Larger Display and New Watch Faces Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo mentioned that the Series 10 could feature bigger display sizes of 45mm and 49mm. However, other sources suggest slightly different dimensions, possibly 44mm and 48mm. Along with these larger displays, the new models are rumored to introduce unique watch faces, such as the “Reflections” and the Hermès “Regatta,” specifically designed for the Ultra 3.
In addition to the bigger display, the Series 10 is expected to be slimmer and come with better water resistance. Some rumors suggest it could be rated for water sports up to 20 meters deep, making it a more durable choice for active users. Apple might also include the Depth app, previously exclusive to the Apple Watch Ultra, enhancing underwater functionality.
Powerful New Chip and OLED Display Under the hood, the Series 10 will feature an upgraded S10 chip for improved performance and efficiency. Alongside this, the OLED display technology will be more power-efficient, helping extend battery life.
Limited Stock Ahead of the Launch In anticipation of the new models, stock of the current Apple Watch Series 9 and SE 2 has started to run low in Apple’s online store, especially in the U.S. This is typical ahead of new releases, as the company prepares to refresh its product line. The SE 3, rumored to have a plastic casing, could be among the new devices unveiled at Apple’s upcoming event next week.
Apple’s official event will showcase the new Series 10, the Ultra 3, and possibly a refreshed SE model, in addition to other highly anticipated devices like the iPhone 16 and new AirPods.
Stay tuned for full coverage of the event to catch all the latest announcements.
