Apple is preparing to break its annual smartwatch mould with the highly anticipated Apple Watch Series 11, slated for a grand unveiling in September 2024. After a period of incremental updates, this model promises to be the most significant leap forward for the wearable line in years.
A Radical New Design & Display
Insiders suggest Apple is testing a dramatically slimmer profile for the Series 11, moving away from the familiar curved design towards a more modern, flat-edged aesthetic reminiscent of the iPhone and iPad. This could mark the biggest visual shake-up since the original model's debut.
More excitingly, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports that Apple is experimenting with an innovative magnetic band attachment system. This would allow for quicker, more secure band swaps and could potentially free up internal space for larger batteries or new sensors.
Breakthrough Health Monitoring Capabilities
The Series 11 is expected to be a powerhouse for health and wellness. The most talked-about potential feature is blood pressure monitoring. While it may not give precise diastolic and systolic readings initially, it's designed to detect hypertension and notify users to consult a doctor.
Furthermore, Apple is deep into development on sleep apnoea detection. By analysing sleep patterns and blood oxygen levels, the watch could identify this common but often undiagnosed condition. A long-term goal remains non-invasive blood glucose monitoring, though this is unlikely to feature in the 2024 model.
Enhanced Durability & Battery Life
Addressing long-standing user requests, the Apple Watch Series 11 is rumoured to feature a more crack-resistant screen and a new black colour option. Most crucially, Apple is reportedly focusing on a major boost to battery life, potentially moving to a new battery chemistry to support the new health sensors and always-on display without daily charging.
When Can You Buy It?
Tradition points to a launch event in September 2024, alongside the new iPhone 16 lineup. Pre-orders would likely begin that same month, with availability shortly after. While the current Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 remain formidable devices, the Series 11 is shaping up to be a compelling reason for upgraders and new users alike to wait.
