Apple Watch Series 7 may see the wearable’s most significant design change since the first iteration came out six years ago. The folks at phoneArena.com put together a set of 3D renders showing off the possible new look.
As phoneArena.com’s Milen Yanachkov points out, the wearable hasn’t seen a major design change in its history, unless you count Series 4’s slightly bigger display and more rounded corners.
The next model almost certainly will not be completely round, as Apple has said it won’t go there. But subtler changes consistent with other current Apple products seem likely. Apple tipster Jon Prosser predicted this year’s Apple Watch will feature flat edges — and a green color option — back in May.
Photo: phoneArena.com
Flattened out
While designs moving toward smoother and rounder looks are commonplace in the industry, Apple has gone in the other direction. Somewhat boxy products — with flush, rather than rounded, sides — became standard issue, with iPhones leading the way.
As Yanachkov points out, in 2018 the iPad Pro acquired a flat frame to go with a bigger screen and a thinner bezel. The iPhone 12 and the latest Mac Pro models also have flat sides. He thinks the new Apple Watch Series 7 will continue the cycle, losing some mass from its sides.
How that will look with the rumored bigger displays remains to be seen.
Photo: phoneArena.com
A larger display on two new sizes
Rumors predict Apple Watch Series 7 coming in two new case sizes — 41mm and 45mm. They will replace the 40mm and 44mm sizes that have been routine since Apple Watch Series 4 (which bumped them up from 38mm and 42mm).
New bands spotted in photos appear to support the larger sizes.
Slightly bigger sizes go hand-in-hand with the idea that the new Series 7 timepieces will sport bigger displays.
Price and release date
Recent Apple Watch models have carried a $399 price tag for the base model (with the Apple Watch SE coming in at more budget-friendly $279). It seems reasonable to expect the base Apple Watch 7 to come in at $399 and for the larger size and special editions to go up from there.
Apple’s Apple Watch event is expected to happen soon, probably in early or mid-September.
