Rumor mill: The Apple Watch Series 10 is expected to feature a thinner chassis and a larger display compared to last year’s Watch Series 9. Apple is also reportedly looking to use 3D-printed components in its next-generation smartwatch to reduce production costs.
A new note from TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo corroborates an earlier rumor that the Apple Watch Series 10 could be about 10-15 percent slimmer than its predecessor. It also supports a recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who claimed that the next-gen iPhone and MacBook models, as well as the Watch Series 10, will feature thinner frames in line with Apple’s new design philosophy first seen on the new M4 iPad Pro.
Despite the thinner design, the Apple Watch Series 10 will reportedly be larger than its predecessor. According to Kuo, the screen sizes will increase from the current 41mm and 45mm in the Watch Series 9 to about 45mm and 49mm in the upcoming model. As for the next-gen Apple Watch Ultra, Kuo claimed it will remain relatively similar to the current model, but Apple may add a new dark / black color option this year.
The most interesting new rumor about the Apple Watch Series 10 is that it could be the first mainstream smartwatch to use 3D-printed components. According to Kuo’s report, Apple has extensively tested 3D-printed parts over the past year and improved production efficiency enough to feel confident about using the technology in its new watch models. A company called BLT will reportedly be the supplier of these 3D-printed components.
Rumors about a significant Apple Watch redesign have been circulating in the media since last year. According to a newsletter from Mark Gurman in late 2023, the “Apple Watch X” will represent the biggest redesign of the device and will likely include a new magnetic attachment system for attaching and swapping bands. The Watch X is expected to launch either in 2024 or 2025 to celebrate a decade of the Apple Watch.
It is worth noting that Kuo did not mention the so-called Apple Watch X in his note, nor did he confirm whether the magnetic band attachment system will make it to this year’s model. Still, if the rumors turn out to be accurate, the 2024 Apple Watch promises to be a significant upgrade from the Watch Series 9, at least in terms of design.