From The Verge: This year’s Apple Watch leaks haven’t been terribly exciting. So far, we’ve heard there’ll be a new, faster processor and potentially a darker color for the Ultra 2. However, a new Bloomberg report suggests that’s because the major updates this time around will revolve around the sensors — namely, a new optical heart rate sensor and a new U2 ultra wideband chip. The same report also suggests the iPhone 15 Pro models will be about 10 percent lighter than prior models and perhaps more repairable thanks to an internal redesign.
It’s been a while since Apple did a major overhaul of the Apple Watch’s internal components. The last time the processor got a significant boost was the Series 6 in 2020 — and that’s about when Apple introduced a new always-on altimeter, blood oxygen sensors, and the U1 UWB chip. While there are scant details about the new optical heart rate sensor, the goal is ostensibly increased accuracy. That will in turn impact the Apple Watch’s various health features like abnormal high / low heart rate and irregular heart rate rhythm alerts. Meanwhile, the U2 UWB chip will likely improve precision tracking within the Find My app for lost items.
That said, Bloomberg notes that, design-wise, this year’s Apple Watches will look the same as last year’s models. That means the Series 9 will stick with the 41mm and 45mm cases, while the Ultra will remain at 49mm. The main difference will be a shift toward 3D-printed cases for stainless steel Series 9 models as part of an eco-friendly push.
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