A delay affecting Apple Watch Series 7 manufacturing could be short-lived, with a new report claiming Apple will ramp up production in late September. It’s not yet clear what the delay might mean for the device’s launch.
Apple has rolled out new Apple Watch models every September for the past five years. But a recent report, citing supply chain sources in Asia, sparked fears that this year’s refresh may come later due to production complications.
The report from Nikkei Asia warned that Apple Watch Series 7’s revamped design and new features were causing “critical challenges” and had forced small-scale production to be “temporarily halted.”
It seems, however, that Apple and its suppliers are confident those teething troubles can be ironed out quickly.
Apple Watch Series 7 won’t be too late to the party
Digitimes reported on Thursday that production of Apple Watch Series 7 will ramp up in late September. Volume production was originally scheduled for the middle of this month, so it could be just two weeks behind.
Apple was expected to unveil its newest smartwatch lineup sometime this month alongside the iPhone 13 refresh. It’s likely that will still happen, with fans simply having to wait longer than normal for their orders to ship.
It’s also possible, however, that Apple will delay its Apple Watch Series 7 announcement. The company is believed to be planning other events for later in the fall, so the refresh could appear at one of those instead.
What to expect from Apple Watch 7
In addition to a revamped design, which is expected to bring a squarer, less curvy case, Apple Watch 7 is rumored to come with a faster processor and larger display panels that take advantage of new lamination technology.
The device will likely be compatible with existing bands, despite shifting to 41mm and 45mm screens (up from 40mm and 44mm options). It could also pack new health and fitness tracking capabilities.
However, one reliable reporter has dismissed suggestions that Apple Watch 7 will be able to monitor blood pressure.
