Much like the annual IKEA catalog, Apple continues their long sustained tradition of a yearly release. Though not much could be said for each subsequent iteration of the iPhone (iPhone 13, eyes on you), the release of the Apple Watch Series 8 does hold a significant portion of expectation. The Apple Watch Series 7 was somewhat devoid of additional features when compared to its predecessor the Watch Series 6. But, the Apple Series Watch 8 bears a few possibilities of being a class apart. Let us check out what new we can expect in Apple Watch 2022 on teh basis of leaks.
Apple Watch Series 7 Vs. Watch Series 8- Size matters
Seeing that the earlier claims of the Series 7 bearing flat sides didn’t hold true, people are somewhat hesitant to immediately account for the Apple Watch Series 8 aesthetics. Regardless, a statement made by display analyst Ross Young seems to hint at the possibility of there being three different sizes. Much like how most annual iPhone line-ups tend to be.
Apple Watch Series 8 Size Prediction: With the existing 41 mm and 45 mm options, you could very well imagine the third one.
What are the specifications of Apple Watch Series 8?
The public clamour associated with the idea of an Apple Watch designed in the rugged construction of a Casio G-Shock seems to be a delight for many. Despite having this offering intended for the practitioners of the extreme, many would likely enjoy the unusual deviation from Apple’s usual streamlined and elegant designs.
Under the hood, it will feature the same specifications and functionality as a standard Apple Watch, but with the add-on of improved impact resistance and protection. The rugged Apple Watch is set to be open to consumers in 2022.
At the moment we do not possess any concrete data regarding the build (got the pun?) of Series 8. Based on what we know about Series 7 and 6, Apple might likely go for an improved processor with a much higher reserve of battery life.
During S7’s pre-production, there were rumours surrounding the possibility of an improved and efficiently packaged chip. While reducing the size of the watch it might also provide enough room for a bigger battery.
Moreover, an upgraded Ultra-Wideband chip can be expected as well. Since U1 had been the go-to for the digital wallet and the Air Tag trackers, it would interesting to see how Apple plans on upgrading it or if there are any plans to upgrade it at all.
Health Features on the Apple Watch Series 8
Apple has only made mentions of the numerous additions it might have to the Health and Wellness functionality of the Apple Watch. Some of them do seem like tall claims, but if proven otherwise can immensely boost the value of their 2022 proposition over the rest of the competition.
1. Blood Sugar and Pressure Monitors
Monitoring blood glucose could prove to be a boon for many who are plagued by the idea of being stung by needles. It is a serious health feature that requires plenty of testing and monitoring to make sure that the results are as intended.
Certain rumours support the idea that a team of biomedical engineers are working on a method that makes use of optical sensors to detect the amount of glucose in a person’s blood, which is, of course in stark contrast to the usual invasive methods. While the idea of non-invasive blood sugar readings was toyed with beforehand, the possibility of it making an appearance in the Series 8 along with iOS 15 is indeed compelling.
Furthermore, Apple would likely add the feature of a Blood pressure monitor. Apple’s supplier Rockley Photonics is working on an advanced digital sensor system that allows wearable devices to monitor body temperature, blood pressure and alcohol levels. This partnership might effectively bring into existence the aforementioned feature.
The method of its working might be based on the measurement of the speed of the wave of a heartbeat through a user’s arteries using sensors on the base of the watch.
2. Temperature Reading
Taking one’s temperature reading will now be possible using the Apple Watch. Though it was initially meant for the 2021 release, it was shifted over as a feature in the 2022 line-up.
It might alert an individual if they show any potential signs of the flu or even in the case of the rugged Series 8, as an indicator that potentially helps the user avoid dangerous levels of heat or cold environs. Body temperature regulation and hydration features could go a long way if you’re into the thrill-seeking lifestyle.
3. Sleep Apnea and Crash Detection
Apple might add blood-oxygen sensors to detect sleep apnea although using the feature on a prolonged basis might affect battery life. A secondary car crash detection feature may serve to alert the user if they happen to become drowsy while at the wheel.
If a car accident were to happen then the Apple Watch can automatically contact paramedical services to be dispatched to the location. The accelerometer might aid in detecting the sudden impact caused by the collision.
Apple Watch Series 8 Display
As we mentioned earlier, the release of the Apple Watch Series 8 might also bring forward a change in the display offerings. A third size is rumoured to be added to the existing 41mm and 45mm options.
Updated technology for the screen could be expected as well. This is indeed appreciated considering the Series 7 only made the change of larger screen and smaller bezels whilst retaining the original display. Although Apple’s new display choice remains to be seen, there is the palpable expectation of an impressive Micro-LED screen making it to the scene.
Ross Young of Display Supply Chain Consultants hints at the possibility of a third larger size being added to the existing options, likely at the 48-50mm range.
What will be Apple Watch Series 8 Release Date?
Keeping in tandem with their yearly release programme, it would be safe to say that one can expect the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch SE sometime in September or October 2022.
Watch Series 8 price leak
As for pricing, expect the Watch Series 8 to match that of Watch 7. The 41mm model of the Apple Watch 7 was launched at a price of $399. Expect Watch Series 8 price to hover in the range of $400-$450 price category and the SE could begin in the sub-$300 range.
Apple Watch 8 rumors and news
- Mark Gurman, in his latest update on Power Up, the rumored features related to new health-tracking sensors like a skin-temperature reader and blood pressure monitoring have been shot down. These features have been added to future releases
- watchOS 9 is rumored to be released during WWDC in summer 2022.
That’s pretty much all there is on our end. Do you think we missed out on something or require us to cover? Let us know in the comments below. For more similar content visit our website.
