Apple explores radical Apple Watch redesigns, including screenless models
The tech giant is considering round displays and a display-free wearable to compete with specialized fitness trackers.
Apple is planning a significant overhaul of its smartwatch portfolio to diversify its hardware and reach new user segments. The company is exploring a range of radical design shifts, including the possibility of a wearable with no display at all.
According to reports from Mark Gurman and coverage by Engadget and 9to5Mac, Apple is considering new devices that feature various screen sizes and types, including round displays. This exploration extends to a completely screenless model, a move that would allow Apple to compete more directly with biometric-focused wearables like Whoop. In addition to hardware aesthetics, Apple is looking to expand its pricing strategy by introducing more premium options alongside a new entry-level device that would be more affordable than the current Apple Watch SE.
A Decade of Consistency
Since the original Apple Watch debuted in 2014, the product line has adhered to a consistent rectangular design language. While the company has introduced different case materials and the ruggedized Ultra line, the fundamental form factor has remained unchanged for over a decade. However, the market has shifted with the rise of specialized health and fitness trackers. These devices prioritize continuous biometric data collection over the traditional smartwatch interface, creating a demand for minimalist hardware that Apple is now reportedly seeking to address.
Market Implications
Moving toward round or screenless designs would mark the most substantial pivot in the history of the Apple Watch. By diversifying the lineup from ultra-budget to ultra-premium, Apple aims to capture a broader demographic, ranging from luxury watch collectors to minimalist fitness enthusiasts who find a screen distracting or unnecessary. This hardware expansion is expected to be paired with deeper AI integration via a revamped Siri, shifting the user experience from visual interaction to more intuitive, voice-driven, or data-centric engagement.
The Road Ahead
Despite these long-term ambitions, immediate changes will be modest. The upcoming Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 are expected to be iterative updates rather than major redesigns. While the core strategy involves a total revamp, these near-term releases will likely maintain the existing design language. Industry observers will be watching for confirmation on when these radical form factors will move from the exploration phase to production, as well as the specific pricing for the rumored budget-tier device.