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Apple considers round screens and more radical designs for future Apple Watch revamp
Apple is reevaluating its Apple Watch design in response to growing competition from non-screen fitness devices. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports that potential changes could include circular screens and new fitness accessories that may not have displays at all. Despite investigating these innovations, Apple has not finalized plans nor set timelines for release. In the meantime, Apple will continue to launch incremental updates like the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 this fall, with new features and varying price points to address different consumer segments.
MonitorConfidence: MediumShort term horizon
Published 9 Aug 2026, 14:30 UTC1 min read
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Summary
TL;DR
- Apple considers round displays and new designs for future Apple Watch
- Exploration of fitness accessories without screens
- Competing with devices like the Oura Ring and other smart fitness options
- New models, including Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, launching this fall
- Current changes represent a major rethink in Apple Watch design strategy
Interesting facts
- This could be the first substantial redesign of the Apple Watch since its introduction.
- The incorporation of AI into the Health app could signify a pivot towards smarter health tracking.
- Apple's willingness to explore lower-end models shows a strategy to capture a broader market.