There will still be a lot of time before the Apple Watch Series 8 is introduced. However, rumors about features and design are already circulating, which is why it is worth summarizing these reports in the meantime.
Before we get started, I would like to point out the following as always: The following is just a summary of all the rumors so far about the Apple Watch Series 8. None of it has been confirmed and none of it has to actually be the case. After all, we remember Apple's surprise regarding the Series 7. Let's get started.
design and sizes
Little is known about the design of the Apple Watch Series 8 so far. But it could be similar to the Apple Watch Series 7, as Apple only increased the size of the display with the Series 7 models and the company usually sticks with one display size for a few years. However, display analyst Ross Young believes that the Apple Watch Series 8 could come in three sizes instead of two, with Apple adding another size to the 41 and 45mm options. Before the release of the Apple Watch Series 7, there were several rumors that suggested that Apple was working on a refreshed design with flat edges, similar to the flat edges of the iPhone 13 and iPad Pro. But that didn't turn out to be true. There is, however, a patent that confirms the idea itself.
Apple Watch Rugged
According to Bloomberg, Apple is working on a version of the Apple Watch "with a rugged case" aimed at athletes, hikers and others who wear the watch in more extreme conditions than in everyday life. It will have the same functions as a regular Apple Watch, but it will have improved shock resistance and better protection.
Health functions
According to the Wall Street Journal and other sources, Apple is developing several new health features for future Apple Watch models. These include blood pressure monitoring, a thermometer for fertility and sleep monitoring, sleep apnea detection and diabetes detection. One of these features could be introduced with the Apple Watch Series 8.
blood sugar monitoring
Rumor has it that a team of biomedical engineers at Apple is working on a way to non-invasively monitor blood sugar levels using optical sensors—a technology that could make its way into the Apple Watch at some point in the future. Such a feature would make diabetes management much easier, as it would not require piercing the skin. Blood glucose monitoring is rumored to be a feature Apple has been working on for years, but it's a serious health feature that would likely require regulation. DigiTimes claims that Apple is working on short-wave infrared sensors that could allow the Apple Watch Series 8 to monitor blood sugar by measuring the amount of sugar in the blood. This should be viewed with skepticism, however.
blood pressure measurement
Apple supplier Rockley Photonics is working on an advanced digital sensor system that will allow wearables to monitor biomarkers such as core body temperature, blood pressure, hydration, alcohol levels, lactate, glucose trends, and more using optical sensors. Given Apple's partnership with Rockley, this technology could eventually make its way to the Apple Watch. A blood pressure monitor worn on the wrist could detect when blood pressure is rising, meaning the feature would be able to detect high blood pressure. Apple plans to launch this feature in 2022, but that too could be delayed as the technology still needs to be perfected. Blood pressure monitoring would work by measuring the speed of the heartbeat wave in the user's arteries using sensors.
Temperature sensor
Apple has considered adding a body temperature sensor to the Apple Watch Series 7. However, according to Bloomberg, complications have arisen, which is why the whole thing has now been delayed. The feature could, however, be implemented in the Series 8. A temperature measurement function would be useful for tracking fertility and sleep. In later versions, it could also detect when a user has a fever.
detection of sleep apnea
Apple wants to use the existing blood oxygen sensor to detect sleep apnea, but there are reportedly problems with taking frequent measurements without affecting battery life.
detection of car accidents
Apple is working on a crash detection feature for the iPhone and Apple Watch that could reportedly launch in 2022. It will use sensors like the accelerometer to detect car crashes as they happen by measuring a spike in gravitational force. When a car crash is detected, the iPhone or Apple Watch would automatically call emergency services for help. Since the feature is planned for 2022, it could be designed for the iPhone 14 models and Apple Watch Series 8, although it is likely not limited to those devices.
Apple Watch patents
Apple has patented several interesting technologies that could be used in future Apple Watch devices, such as a biometric authentication feature that determines the wearer's identity based on their skin pattern. Such a feature would eliminate the need for a passcode when wearing the Apple Watch. Another patent describes a self-tightening Apple Watch band that adjusts during intense activities such as running or exercising to accurately measure heart rate and then loosens again afterward. A third patent describes an Apple Watch band with an LED indicator that visualizes the progress of an activity or task, such as when a workout or activity ring is completed.
Apple is thinking about Touch ID
For example, in December 2019, Apple received a patent describing how the Apple Watch could help doctors monitor the symptoms of Parkinson's patients by using sensors to track tremors. Apple believes this method of data collection will allow users to better track their symptoms so they can plan their activities around symptoms. Two 2020 patents suggest that Apple is researching Touch ID and an under-display camera for the Apple Watch. Apple describes a side button with an integrated Touch ID fingerprint sensor that could be used for user identification and unlocking the device. Currently, the Apple Watch is unlocked with a passcode and also when the paired iPhone is unlocked.
Apple Watch could get a camera
As for the under-display camera, the patent describes a two-tier display technology with a camera that is only visible from the outside when activated. In 2021, Apple outlined a radical redesign of the Apple Watch in a patent application that includes a rounded watch face, a flexible wraparound display, and digitally customizable straps. Apple has filed several other patents covering the ability to incorporate hardware into the Apple Watch strap, including batteries, speakers, kinetic energy generators, haptic feedback components, and even cameras. It is unknown whether these patented features will be integrated into the Apple Watch in the future or remain just an idea. However, it is interesting to see what Apple is working on behind the scenes and what the company is considering. Looking for new accessories? Then take a look in our Amazon Storefront - there you will find numerous products from leading suppliers. (Image: Apple)
