A well-known leaker on Weibo named “Instant Digital” claims that Apple plans to launch a redesigned Apple Watch next year, potentially featuring a new band system. Here’s what we know so far.
The leaker posted on Weibo, “After three years of waiting, Apple Watch is finally about to make a big change!” The leaker also pointed to an August 2023 post where they stated, “The Apple Watch 10’s strap-case connection has changed to increase the watch’s internal space.” They later doubled down, commenting, “you can start buying current watch bands less often now, if you plan to get a new watch next year.”
The current Apple Watch Band system has remained largely unchanged since 2015, despite physical size increases in recent years. In 2023, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said, “Apple is planning a ‘Watch X’ model to mark the device’s 10-year anniversary, and it promises to be the biggest overhaul yet.” Gurman said the 10th Anniversary model would feature a magnetic band attachment system, a Micro-LED display, and a thinner case. We never got that model, but this could be what Apple is planning for the 2027 refresh.
If you pay close attention, Apple typically updates the Apple Watch every three generations, starting with Apple Series 0 through Series 3, which shared a design. Series 4 introduced a larger display and a thinner case that remained through Series 6. Apple updated the Series 7 model and carried it through Series 9. Series 10 should last through Series 13, which is in 2027. Should this align with “Instant Digital,” this could be something to keep a close eye on.
This year’s Series 12, due sometime in the fall, isn’t expected to be more than just a small spec bump to support Apple Intelligence and Siri AI. All eyes are on next year’s model.
