The Apple Watch Series 7 may introduce the biggest design change in the wearable’s 6-year history. Apple’s smartwatch has hasn’t really had a proper redesign yet, leaving aside the slightly bigger display and ever-so-slightly more rounded corners introduced with Series 4.
With the next model, we expect that Apple will do something more with the design. And no, we we’re not talking about a completely round Apple Watch Series 7, as that remains as unlikely to happen as it’s ever been (unfortunately).
We are talking about a change in design that will make the Apple Watch Series 7 more consistent with the rest of Apple’s current product portfolio, and that — combined with one or two more minor tweaks — could help the new Apple Watch feel the freshest that it has in a while.
Flat everything
The industry was seemingly moving toward increasingly smoother and rounder designs. Samsung, in particular, was pushing the boundaries of curved screens and otherwise sloping surfaces with its Samsung Galaxy flagship series. However, a couple of years ago, Apple decided to go against the grain and instead start making its products boxier, with flush sides, instead of rounded. A decision no doubt inspired by older generations of iPhones (iPhone 4 and 5 in particular).In 2018, the iPad Pro launched with a flat frame that went well with the bigger screen and thinner, uniform bezels. The iPhone 12 and this year’s Mac Pros continued this trend, launching with flat sides. We think that this cycle will continue with the new Apple Watch Series 7, which is likely next in line to get some bulk shaved off its sides.
Flattening the sides of the Apple Watch will make it look more consistent with the other devices in Apple’s lineup and could help the watch’s bezels appear thinner. This effect could be further compounded by the slightly bigger display that’s rumored to come with the Apple Watch Series 7.
New sizes and a bigger display
Price and release date
As for when to expect the Series 7, Apple’s annual event is fast approaching. There is no concrete date for this year’s event, but Apple has historically always held it in early-to-mid-September, so we’d expect this year to be no exception. Looking back at how events were scheduled in recent years, the most likely window for the 2021 Apple Special Event is between September 5 and September 20. That’s when we expect the Apple Watch Series 7 to be announced.
Disclaimer: The images featured in this story are concept 3D renders of the Apple Watch Series 7, based on preliminary information and educated guesses. If you wish to use any of the images featured in this article, please make sure to include a link to this page.
