Apple Watch Series 7 will feature updated display, Explorer Edition will ship in 2022

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Apple Watch Series 7 concept
Is this the Apple Watch set for release later this year?
Concept: Jon Prosser/RendersbyIan

The Apple Watch Series 7 will boast a faster processor, better wireless connectivity, and a new, improved screen, says a new report from Bloomberg. The screen will have thinner bezels and a “new lamination technique that brings the display closer to the front cover.” This would be the first Apple Watch form factor redesign since 2018.

However, a body temperature sensor that was planned for this year’s update has supposedly been pushed back to the 2022 iPhone. Meanwhile, a rumored blood sugar sensor for monitoring glucose levels is reported as still being several years away.

The new Apple Watch display will supposedly make the device slightly thicker overall. But this is unlikely to be in a way that is noticeable to the user. The report also claims that the Apple Watch Series 7 will feature “updated ultra-wideband functionality.” This refers to the same tech found in the AirTag. At WWDC in June, Apple showed off a watchOS 8 feature that will allow Apple Watches to unlock doors.

This isn’t the first time we’ve heard about an Apple Watch makeover scheduled for this year. In May, tipster Jon Prosser suggested that it could boast a new, flat-edged design in keeping with the iPhone 12, iPad Pro and iPad Air appearance. It will also supposedly come in a green color option reminiscent of the AirPods Max.

Apple Watch Explorer Edition and Apple Watch SE 2

The Bloomberg report additionally provides an update on the rumored Apple Watch Explorer Edition. This ruggedized Apple Watch could offer the same Apple Watch functionality but in a rubberized, impact-resistant form factor similar to Casio’s G-Shock line of watches. In March, Bloomberg suggested this device could debut in 2021 or 2022. This latest article says it is now more likely to launch in 2022.

Also on the cards for 2022 is an upgrade of Apple’s entry level Apple Watch SE. Apple debuted the Apple Watch SE in September 2020. The first-gen Apple Watch SE had the same physical design as the Apple Watch Series 4. However, inside it boasted a Series 5 processor. It also had the always-on altimeter found in the Apple Watch Series 6.

What would it take to get you to upgrade your current Apple Watch? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Source: Bloomberg

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