'Apple Watch Series 3' rumored to boast all-new form factor [u]
On the heels of news that Apple intends to release an LTE-equipped Apple Watch model later this year, a new rumor surfaced claiming the smartwatch line will receive its first design refresh since launch in 2015.
In a post regarding Bloomberg's report on the so-called "Apple Watch Series 3," well-connected blogger John Gruber, without citing sources, said the device is due for an aesthetic revamp.
"No mention in Businessweek's report, though, of the all-new form factor that I've heard is coming for this year's new watches," Gruber writes. "That tidbit came from an unconfirmed little birdie, though, so I wouldn't bet the house on it."
The launch of a redesigned Apple Watch in 2017 would follow Apple's usual two-year design incubation period for portable devices. Since the debut of iPhone in 2007, the tech giant has employed a tick-tock design cycle for products like iPhone and iPad. A more lengthy period is applied to other hardware like Mac.
Today's rumor lines up with predictions KGI analyst Ming-Chi Kuo published early last year. Before Apple Watch Series 2 debuted, Kuo said the second-generation device would boast internal upgrades similar in fashion to iPhone "s" series variants. Those looking for a big redesign, like a slimmer profile, would have to wait until 2017, the analyst said.
Indeed, Apple implemented a number of minor component updates with Apple Watch Series 2 last September, including a GPS module, water resistant chassis, brighter display and faster dual-core S2 processor, but left aesthetics largely unchanged. A new material was also introduced in the white ceramic Apple Watch Edition, replacing the pricey solid gold models that debuted in 2015.
Whether the new form factor will continue to feature Apple Watch's iconic square shape is unknown. If the refreshed design is a vast departure from current offerings, perhaps a round-faced option -- it could mean an end of support for existing accessories like Watch bands and straps.
Rumors about a third-generation Apple Watch remain sparse, though some have suggested the future device will feature advanced health and fitness capabilities like sleep tracking and glucose monitoring.
Update: This article has been updated with information clarifying the rumor's source.
In a post regarding Bloomberg's report on the so-called "Apple Watch Series 3," well-connected blogger John Gruber, without citing sources, said the device is due for an aesthetic revamp.
"No mention in Businessweek's report, though, of the all-new form factor that I've heard is coming for this year's new watches," Gruber writes. "That tidbit came from an unconfirmed little birdie, though, so I wouldn't bet the house on it."
The launch of a redesigned Apple Watch in 2017 would follow Apple's usual two-year design incubation period for portable devices. Since the debut of iPhone in 2007, the tech giant has employed a tick-tock design cycle for products like iPhone and iPad. A more lengthy period is applied to other hardware like Mac.
Today's rumor lines up with predictions KGI analyst Ming-Chi Kuo published early last year. Before Apple Watch Series 2 debuted, Kuo said the second-generation device would boast internal upgrades similar in fashion to iPhone "s" series variants. Those looking for a big redesign, like a slimmer profile, would have to wait until 2017, the analyst said.
Indeed, Apple implemented a number of minor component updates with Apple Watch Series 2 last September, including a GPS module, water resistant chassis, brighter display and faster dual-core S2 processor, but left aesthetics largely unchanged. A new material was also introduced in the white ceramic Apple Watch Edition, replacing the pricey solid gold models that debuted in 2015.
Whether the new form factor will continue to feature Apple Watch's iconic square shape is unknown. If the refreshed design is a vast departure from current offerings, perhaps a round-faced option -- it could mean an end of support for existing accessories like Watch bands and straps.
Rumors about a third-generation Apple Watch remain sparse, though some have suggested the future device will feature advanced health and fitness capabilities like sleep tracking and glucose monitoring.
Update: This article has been updated with information clarifying the rumor's source.
Comments
That said, I'm always excited when a possible new design comes out. Anything they can improve on will make an already great product even that much better.
You are correct about the ear buds; even if I hate them (and hardly ever use them.)
Much was made of the square form factor as the way to handle information display of lists. I can see Apple rethinking that in favor of round. I like my original AW, use it all the time. But they did ditch the round scrolly thingy for contacts in a watchOS revamp, so this seems a bit regressive.
If I was to ask for something in AW, it wouldn't be a new form factor, or even slimmer. It would be that Siri stop being so damn stupid.
Speaking as someone who wore a watch 23.8 hours a day before the Apple Watch, putting the watch on the nightstand while sleeping is no big deal.
I haven't ever worn a watch to bed, so daily charging is a non-issue for me.
I concur that deciding on what technology to acquire is a personal choice.
the one thing they better not do is to change the way the bands attach. That would be a big error.
Is it really that hard to drop the damn watch on the charger while you sleep? You most likely need to charge your phone as well every night.
Like that's any good to you when it's sitting on the charger EVERY night.
Wont even entertain one until it lasts at least 3-4 days between charges.
Rest is as important as excersise to properly track fitness.