Apple could be planning its biggest rethink of the Apple Watch yet, reportedly considering everything from screenless fitness trackers to different display shapes and sizes.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple’s industrial design team has been exploring a broader overhaul of its smartwatch lineup with several possible directions currently under consideration. The company is reportedly looking at the resurgence of screen-free fitness bands and smart rings, suggesting future Apple wearables could move well beyond the familiar Watch design.
One possibility is a new Apple Watch-style device without a display, similar in concept to the growing number of screenless fitness trackers. That would put Apple in more direct competition with products such as Whoop and Fitbit Air and could offer a more discreet way to track health and fitness without adding another screen to users’ daily lives.
Apple is also considering Apple Watches with different display types and new sizes. However, Gurman says the company has yet to settle on a specific direction.
A round Apple Watch has apparently been explored, too, but don’t get too excited about that possibility just yet. Gurman cautions that a circular model is unlikely to actually launch, despite Apple having considered the idea.
The rethink could extend beyond the shape of the existing lineup. Apple has reportedly considered introducing premium models positioned above the Ultra and Hermès versions. At the same time, the company is also exploring additional lower-cost options beyond the Apple Watch SE.
Exactly what will make it into Apple’s final product roadmap remains unclear. The company is still evaluating multiple concepts. However, Gurman says Apple is determined to reinvent the lineup as competition in the wearable market increases.
Fitness trackers without screens and smart rings have become increasingly popular because they can collect health data without demanding constant attention. That trend appears to be something Apple is taking seriously as it looks for ways to make its wearables more relevant.
The company is also planning a stronger AI focus for its wearables, alongside ambitious plans to overhaul the Health app.
Gurman believes the eventual Apple Watch transformation could be comparable to Apple’s move from traditional slab-style iPhones to foldables. That’s a significant ambition, particularly as Apple’s Wearables, Home and Accessories business has struggled to deliver growth in recent years.
For now, though, this is firmly a case of Apple exploring ideas rather than confirming products. A screenless tracker or round Apple Watch may never make it to market. Still, the fact that both concepts are reportedly being considered suggests Apple’s familiar smartwatch formula could be about to change.
The post Apple’s Watch rethink could be inspired by Whoop and Fitbit Air appeared first on Trusted Reviews.