Apple Watch 2024 models will have an updated design and advanced health monitoring

Apple intends to introduce a major update to the Apple Watch line in 2024. As Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports in his Power On newsletter, future models will include a new set of features aimed at increasing their appeal to consumers.

Apple Watch design update

Apple Watch 2024 models are expected to undergo a design transformation. Although Gurman did not specify which model will receive the update, there is speculation that it may be the standard Apple Watch. This will happen after the release of the Apple Watch Ultra in 2022 in its own design with a titanium case. Although there are rumors of a larger micro-LED display for the Ultra model, it is expected that Apple will not be ready to introduce this technology until 2025 or 2026.

The Apple Watch 2024 is expected to be thinner and possibly have a new magnetic mechanism for connecting the bands. However, the most anticipated features are related to health monitoring. Gurman suggests that the next generation of Apple Watch will be able to detect sleep apnea and hypertension, conditions that affect millions of people around the world.

Blood pressure monitoring

To detect hypertension, Apple Watch will use wrist blood pressure monitoring, which is a remarkable engineering achievement. Gurman noted that the device will be able to show whether blood pressure is trending upward, prompting users to seek medical attention. Although it will not provide specific systolic and diastolic measurements at the initial stage, future versions may offer more accurate readings.

Sleep apnea detection

Detection of sleep apnea (temporary cessation of breathing) will be based on the measurement of sleep parameters and breathing patterns. This feature can simplify the diagnostic process, which usually requires a sleep study at a specialized center. Apple Watch’s ability to provide apnea alerts at home could be crucial for people with mild sleep apnea who are unaware of their condition, allowing them to seek treatment and improve their sleep quality.

Apple traditionally updates the Apple Watch lineup every year, so new models are expected to debut around September 2024, probably at the same time as the iPhone 16.