Apple Watch Series 12 may not be the major redesign some users are hoping for, with current reports suggesting Apple is focusing on a chip refresh rather than big design changes.
In his Power On Newsletter, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says that there is currently "ongoing work on a bigger rethink to the Apple Watch" but that he "wouldn’t expect that to arrive for another year or two".
This suggests that the next Apple Watch may be a minor upgrade, with either a new S11 or S12 chip and same industrial design as the Series 10 and 11.
Whilst there are also rumours circulating about a blood glucose level sensor coming to the Apple Watch, Gurman reports that Apple is not there yet and are "still moving toward[s]" this goal.
As Apple Watch Series 12 is expected to release this September, with late-stage testing currently underway, it is unlikely the sensor will debut this year.
What's Coming To Apple Watch Series 12
One change that is likely coming to the Series 12, the new chip, may help power Apple Intelligence features on the device.
Siri AI is coming to Apple Watch this September, marking the first major overhaul to the assistant on the device since its launch in 2015.
A new chip would improve on-device speeds and power other Apple Intelligence features, such as Workout Buddy, making Series 12 a compelling device for Siri users.
The latest Apple S10 chip launched in 2024 with the Series 10. The following year, Apple Watch Series 11 launched with the same chip.
It would be unusual for Apple to reuse the same chip for a third year in a row.
In addition to a new chip, we can expect slightly improved battery life, potentially a new colour option and a refreshed range of Apple Watch straps.
However, it looks like Apple is waiting a few more years before introducing a major overhaul to its smartwatch lineup.
