Apple’s highly anticipated ‘It’s Glowtime’ event is just around the corner, promising major updates to the iPhone and Apple Watch. The event, scheduled for September 9th, will likely feature the unveiling of the iPhone 16 lineup, along with the Apple Watch Series 10 and Apple Watch Ultra 3. With the iPhone 16 poised to be the highlight, it’s important to remember that the Apple Watch celebrates its 10th anniversary on the same day. This milestone makes it highly likely that we’ll see significant updates for the Apple Watch, including potential design changes and a new band attachment system. As someone who has been a dedicated Apple Watch user for the past decade, I’m eager to see what the Apple Watch Series 10 has in store. Here are some of the most anticipated features:
A New Design and a Bigger Display
Reports suggest that the Apple Watch Series 10 could be getting a much-needed design refresh. Rumors indicate a thinner profile and a new size option: 49mm, with the current 45mm becoming the ‘small’ size. After a decade of the same design, an aesthetic overhaul is long overdue. While the square design of the Apple Watch has its appeal, its thickness has been a point of contention. A slimmer profile would make the Apple Watch less bulky, and the larger display sizes would offer a more immersive experience. The introduction of 45mm and 49mm sizes could potentially narrow the gap between the standard Apple Watch and the Apple Watch Ultra in terms of display size, though the Ultra would retain its unique features. While I’ve always favored the smaller sizes, my experience with the Apple Watch Ultra has made me appreciate the practicality of a bigger display on the wrist. Larger displays allow for more complications on watch faces like Modular Ultra, providing a wealth of information at a glance. It also improves the readability of notifications, messages, and other data. The trend towards bigger displays in wearable technology is understandable, as these devices are essentially small computers on our wrists.
An Easier Way to Attach Bands
There are also rumors circulating about the Apple Watch Series 10 potentially featuring a new magnetic band attachment system. This innovative system would eliminate the current cutout on the watch body used for attaching bands, creating more space for internal components, including larger batteries. Who wouldn’t welcome longer battery life? The idea of a magnetic band attachment system is incredibly appealing. While the current system works well, compatibility issues with third-party bands can be frustrating, often resulting in a tighter fit or difficulty with the band release button. Apple’s mastery of magnets, evident in the success of MagSafe for iPhones, makes this development highly plausible. Magnetic bands that are effortless to attach and detach could lead to more frequent band changes, allowing users to express their personal style more often. However, the reliability of third-party bands would depend on the strength of the magnets used, as some MagSafe iPhone cases have proven to be too weak. Of course, adopting a new band attachment system would mean that the vast collection of Apple Watch bands accumulated over the past decade would become obsolete. While this prospect may be disheartening for some, the potential benefits outweigh the inconvenience, especially for those who have invested heavily in a diverse band collection.
A Lot to Look Forward To
Apple’s ‘It’s Glowtime’ event promises a thrilling look into the future of the iPhone and Apple Watch. The iPhone 16 lineup is expected to feature a new Capture button across the board, a welcome addition for photography enthusiasts like myself. Apple’s event is sure to be filled with exciting announcements, and we’ll be reporting on all the latest developments as they unfold. Make sure to stay tuned for comprehensive coverage of the ‘It’s Glowtime’ event, which officially kicks off at 10 a.m. PT/1 p.m. ET.
