Main topic: Apple Watch set to receive a major redesign in 2022.
Key points:
1. The upcoming Apple Watch, called "Watch X," will be the 10th edition of the device.
2. Apple plans to introduce the most significant redesign of the Apple Watch since its launch in 2015.
3. Previous annual updates to the Apple Watch have been minor, with only small changes or additions.
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 15 and Apple Watch Series 9 at its upcoming event, with rumors suggesting that the iPhone 15 will adopt USB-C and wireless charging, while the Apple Watch Series 9 may feature new processors and colors.
The Apple Watch Series 9 and second-generation Apple Watch Ultra will have upgraded sensors, components, and a focus on speed, efficiency, and accuracy, including a new version of the heart rate sensor and an all-new "U2" ultra wideband chip for improved location tracking.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic and Google Pixel Watch are both excellent smartwatches, with the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic offering superior features like a sapphire crystal display and better battery life, while the Pixel Watch may be more appealing for lighter users at a discounted price.
Apple will announce its next generation of mobile products, including the iPhone 15 and the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra, at its upcoming Wonderlust event, with the Ultra expected to have significant design improvements and both watches potentially featuring upgraded sensors and processors.
Apple has announced the second-generation Apple Watch Ultra with a brighter display, faster chip, new gestures, and enhanced features for water activities, starting at $799.
Apple has unveiled the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, as well as the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max, all featuring advanced features, improved performance, and new designs, with prices starting at $399 for the Apple Watch Series 9 and $799 for the iPhones. Additionally, the iPhone and AirPods will now have USB-C connectors, and iCloud+ will offer new storage options, while iOS 17 will be released as a free software update on September 18.
The Apple Watch Series 9 introduces a new feature called Double Tap, allowing users to perform tasks by tapping their finger and thumb together without touching the display, while also bringing faster performance and on-device Siri processing.
The Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 have double the storage capacity of previous models, providing more space for apps and media.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 has a new screen that is the brightest of any Apple Watch, with a maximum brightness of 3,000 nits, along with new features such as Double Tap for control and the Modular Ultra watch face.
The Huawei Watch 4/Watch 4 Pro offers non-invasive blood glucose monitoring, while the Apple Watch Ultra is a top-end watch with a durable titanium exterior and extended battery life; the rumored Google Pixel Watch 2 may feature an enhanced version of the Body Response stress detection system; the Amazfit Cheetah incorporates generative AI coaching, and the Fitbit Ace 4 is designed as a fitness tracker watch for children; finally, the Citizen Smart Touchscreen Gen-2 is an AI-assisted watch powered by IBM's Watson AI engine.
The new Apple Watch Ultra 2 is available for order, but some configurations are facing shipping delays, with certain band options still available for September 22 delivery.
The Apple Watch has transitioned from a luxury fashion accessory to a highly popular health and fitness tracker, leading the global smartwatch market with 22% of shipments in Q2 2023.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 does not offer a straightforward 12-hour increase in battery life compared to the original Ultra model, as the testing parameters for both devices in Low Power Mode differ significantly.
The Apple Watch Series 9 disappoints by not offering more accurate location tracking through dual-frequency GPS, which many other fitness brands have implemented in their watches at a lower price point.
Google's upcoming Pixel Watch 2 is expected to have improved battery life and performance but may have a similar design to its predecessor, with the addition of new metal bands to differentiate it from the original Pixel Watch.
Garmin is expected to release the Vivoactive 5, a new smartwatch with an AMOLED display and improved battery life, making it a strong contender against the Apple Watch Series 9.
The Apple Watch Ultra is on sale for $700, offering a more affordable alternative to the new Apple Watch Ultra 2, while Apple's FineWoven MagSafe Wallet and HomePod 2 are also seeing discounts at $56 and $285 respectively.
