Apple Watch Series 12 is expected to feature modest hardware changes but could introduce new health tracking options and expanded customization when Apple unveils its next-generation watches next week.
Apple’s “Surprise and Shine” event is expected to focus heavily on the iPhone 18 Pro and the rumoured folding iPhone Ultra. The company is also expected to introduce the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman describes both watches as “fairly minor upgrades”. However, he reports that Apple plans to offer many new band colours and configurations.
Ceramic Apple Watch could return
One of the most notable potential changes could be the return of ceramic Apple Watch models.
Apple is reportedly testing ceramic “Edition” versions under the internal codename “Iceman”.
The company discontinued its ceramic Edition models in 2019.
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According to Gurman, Apple has tested white and dark-grey ceramic finishes for the Series 12.
It remains unclear whether Apple will offer the same finishes for the Ultra 4.
The rugged design of the Ultra could make a ceramic version less practical.
Heart-rate sensor may gain continuous monitoring
The biggest changes could come through health and fitness features rather than the watch’s external design.
Gurman reports that Apple is testing a feature that could allow the heart-rate sensor to collect data continuously throughout the day.
Current Apple Watch models monitor heart rate during workouts and certain mindfulness sessions.
Users can also obtain readings through the Heart Rate app.
The watch takes periodic measurements throughout the day to identify unusually high or low heart rates and possible irregular rhythms.
Continuous monitoring could provide a more detailed picture of heart activity and other health patterns.
Apple targets Whoop and Oura
Apple is also reportedly redesigning its fitness and health software.
The company wants the Apple Watch to compete more directly with screenless health trackers such as Whoop and Oura.
The redesigned software could present more wellness-focused measurements and personalised insights.
Competitors have built their appeal around detailed health and fitness analysis.
Whoop, for example, uses features such as a daily journal to track habits and activities and generate personalised recommendations.
Apple’s expanded health software could strengthen the Apple Watch’s position in this growing market.
Major Apple Watch redesign reportedly delayed
Apple is still working on a larger redesign for the Apple Watch, according to Gurman.
However, that project could remain at least another year away.
As a result, the Series 12 and Ultra 4 are expected to retain the familiar design used by recent generations.
Apple’s next watches therefore appear likely to focus on health tracking, fitness software and customization rather than a major visual transformation.
The company is expected to reveal more details at its upcoming event.
