Apple is tipped to overhaul the strap mechanism to slim down the case and deliver improved battery life
Apple is reportedly planning a major mechanical overhaul of the Apple Watch case that will break compatibility with existing watch bands.
That’s according to prominent Weibo leaker Instant Digital , at least, who has issued a warning to Apple smartwatch users: if you plan on holding out for the major redesign, stop investing in first-party or third-party bands, because they likely won’t fit the future hardware.
However, potential upgraders still have some time to prepare. While the Apple Watch Series 12—expected to arrive this September—is expected to retain the same design as the Series 10 and Series 11 , the sweeping design shift is tipped to debut with 2027’s Apple Watch Series 13.
In and of itself, that’s no great bit of intel. In fact, we would be surprised if we didn’t see the next major aesthetic change in the Apple Watch debut with the Series 13.
After all, Apple has traditionally reserved its hardware changes for every fourth iteration. So, Series 1-3 were the original look; Series 4-6 represented the first major shift, evolving into Series 7-9, and changing once again beginning with Series 10.
So, the Apple Watch Series 12 will almost certainly reuse the current exterior design, ensuring users’ existing strap collection is safe for at least another year. Instead, the big upgrades for the Series 12 are expected to happen under the hood and to the rear sensor.
Two key benefits touted for the band change