Apple is preparing to make a splash at its upcoming “It’s Glowtime” event on September 9, 2024, with the expected debut of the iPhone 16 series and major upgrades to its Apple Watch lineup. While the iPhone 16 is likely to steal the spotlight, the new Apple Watch Series 10, Watch Ultra 3, and possibly a revamped Apple Watch SE are set to deliver some exciting advancements across the board.

A Fresh Look for Apple Watch Series 10

As the Apple Watch celebrates its 10th anniversary, Series 10 is shaping up to be a significant update. One of the most noticeable changes is the larger display sizes. The smaller model may increase to 45mm from last year’s 41mm, while the larger version is expected to grow to 49mm, up from 45mm in Series 9. With these bigger displays, Apple will likely introduce LTPO technology, which allows dynamic refresh rate adjustments for improved energy efficiency.

Interestingly, despite these larger screens, the Series 10 is expected to sport a sleeker, thinner chassis, reducing the overall thickness of the watch. This redesign is aimed at maintaining the sleek aesthetic that Apple is known for while accommodating the larger displays.

Performance-wise, the Apple Watch Series 10 is expected to be powered by a new S10 chip, which will likely feature a dedicated Neural Engine for improved AI-based functions. This chip could open up new possibilities for health tracking and activity monitoring, giving users smarter and more accurate insights into their wellness routines.

Apple Watch Ultra 3: Durability Meets Intelligence

The Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple’s top-tier rugged wearable, is expected to follow the design path set by its predecessor, with minimal changes to its appearance. However, like the Series 10, the Ultra 3 is also expected to get the new S10 chip, offering improved performance and paving the way for future AI features.

Battery life has always been a key focus for the Ultra line, and the 2024 model might see a minor bump in battery size, potentially offering slightly longer life compared to the Ultra 2. While the changes may seem incremental, these upgrades could be crucial for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers who rely on their Apple Watch in demanding environments.

Apple Watch SE: Affordable and Capable

In addition to its flagship models, Apple is rumored to be working on a new version of its more affordable Apple Watch SE. Previous reports suggest that the next-gen SE could feature a “rigid plastic” body, which would lower production costs. But instead of reducing the price, Apple may keep the cost similar while offering enhanced features and better performance.

There’s speculation that the new SE model could stick with last year’s S9 chip, but there’s also a chance Apple might include the newer S10 chip, giving the SE a boost in processing power and making it more future-proof. If the S10 chip does make its way into the SE, it could potentially support advanced features like an always-on display and ECG monitoring—making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who still want powerful functionality.

A Focus on Health and AI

As Apple continues to expand its wearable lineup, health and fitness tracking will remain central to the Apple Watch experience. Features like heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and blood oxygen measurement are likely to see further improvements. Additionally, the introduction of the S10 chip across the Series 10 and Ultra 3 models is expected to enhance AI-driven features, positioning the Apple Watch for even more personalized health and wellness capabilities in the future.

The Bigger Picture

Though the iPhone 16 series will be the headline act, the upcoming Apple Watch lineup is set to make waves with its improvements. The Apple Watch Series 10’s new design, larger display, and AI-enhanced performance will offer a compelling upgrade for long-time users, while the Apple Watch Ultra 3 will continue to cater to those who need durability and reliability in extreme conditions. Meanwhile, the Apple Watch SE could emerge as a more powerful yet budget-friendly option, making this year’s event a potential game-changer for Apple’s wearable technology.

With both hardware and software upgrades, Apple’s 2024 watch lineup appears to be one of the most forward-thinking yet, and it’s clear that the company is setting the stage for an exciting future in AI-driven wearables.