Apple Watch 8: Release - Rumours - Price - Specs

The Apple Watch 8 won’t be far off. Following the success of its predecessors, it’s confirmed that this year (likely in September) will see the introduction of the latest Apple Watch. We’re awaiting Apple’s official announcement. In the meantime, we’ve gathered all the rumours and potential new technologies.

Apple Watch 8: Design

The Apple smartwatch is refined annually, including its design. The Apple Watch 8 may feature an aluminium case across all models, making it lighter and even more comfortable.

What We Know About the Apple Watch 8 Design:

• A sleek, square design.
• Flatter than the Apple Watch 7.
• A third, larger case size.
• A special Rugged/Outdoor edition.

Angular, Square Design

Like the iPhone 13, the iPhone 14 is expected to adopt a sleeker, flatter design with unrounded edges, similar to the iPhone 11 and earlier models. The Apple Watch 7 still has rounded edges, but the Apple Watch 8 is anticipated to feature a finish like the leaked render below:

The Flatter, the Better

The image above reflects an early concept for the Apple Watch 8, but the final version is likely to be even flatter. Using microtechnology, Apple aims to fit components into a smaller case, potentially reducing the overall size.

An Extra Large Variant

Previous Apple Watch models offered two case sizes, typically 40mm or 44mm, with the Apple Watch 7 increasing to 41mm or 45mm.

Rumours since October 2021 suggest the Apple Watch 8 might introduce an additional option, such as a 48mm case. This is based on a tweet by Ross Young:

Apple Watch 8 Rugged Edition

The Apple Watch 8 is expected to include a new Rugged edition, designed to be tougher than the standard models, tailored for outdoor use like Garmin watches. No renders of this Rugged edition have leaked yet; we’ll wait for the official release.

Possible New Sensors and Measurements

The Apple Watch 7 didn’t introduce new health sensors, so we expect some with the Apple Watch 8. It can also detect more heart rate irregularities. Potential features include:

Collision Detection (Car)

Since the Apple Watch Series 4, Apple has used fall detection, but never a car collision detection. Apple is reportedly developing this for new iPhones and Apple Watches, as noted by Technopixel.

After a collision, if enabled, it will automatically contact a loved one or emergency services (999) to improve survival chances.

An Apple study shows 50,000 of 10 million users called emergency services after a vehicle accident, prompting this technology expansion.

This feature might be rolled out to earlier iPhone and Apple Watch models via a software update.

New Thermometer

Due to COVID-19, Apple has been working on a thermometer to measure body temperature, potentially reducing the need for standalone devices for quick COVID-19 checks.

The general thermometer will also improve, making it easier to monitor the watch’s temperature, e.g., after sun exposure.

Blood Sugar Monitoring (Rumour)

Apple users have long suggested blood sugar monitoring, but it hasn’t been added yet. It might debut with the Apple Watch 8.

Sleep Apnea Detection

Sleep apnea detection could now be possible using the current blood oxygen measurement. However, the SpO2 measurement isn’t perfect, as lasers struggle to accurately measure oxygen through skin, requiring significant improvement for sleep apnea detection.

Activity Tracking Overhaul

Tech expert Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman recently used "Major Updates" to hint at a revamp of activity tracking on the Apple Watch.

The sports menu may expand with more options and improved accuracy per sport through enhanced calculations.

Blood Pressure Monitoring?

A blood pressure measurement might be in development for the Apple Watch 8. Accuracy depends on how snugly it fits the wrist, though its inclusion remains uncertain.

Up to 5% Larger Screen

The Apple Watch 8 display could be up to 5% larger than the previous generation. According to Applewatchmagazine and Ross Young, it might reach up to 1.99 inches diagonally (5.05 cm), likely for the third, larger variant.

Larger Battery Capacity

New features and technologies require a larger battery to match the Apple Watch 7’s longevity. The Apple Watch 8 will likely have a larger battery, though actual endurance depends on power consumption.

From OLED to Micro-LED?

Micro-LED, the latest screen technology, hasn’t been used in small devices like the Apple Watch 8 yet. Transitioning from OLED to micro-LED could be a logical next step for high-end smartwatches, offering higher contrast and lower energy use.

Improved Power-Saving Mode

It’d be great if the Apple Watch lasted a week! The Apple Watch 8 may introduce an enhanced power-saving mode. Suspecting low usage, Apple might add more options, allowing more functionality than just viewing the time in "Energy Saving Mode."

New Software Version: watchOS 9

A logical prediction is that the Apple Watch 8 will launch with the latest watchOS 9 software, continuing the trend of new software with each release.

Touch ID

No leaks suggest Touch ID for the Apple Watch 8. Users have awaited fingerprint unlocking for years, currently relying on a passcode when wearing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Apple Watch 8 released?

The Apple Watch 8 is expected to be introduced in October 2022, with initial details likely available in September.

How much will the Apple Watch 8 cost?

The Apple Watch 8 is projected to range from £399 to £499 for the base model. The Rugged edition may cost more due to its special build and coating.

What is the Apple Watch 8 release date?

The exact release date for the Apple Watch 8 isn’t confirmed yet, but it’s likely to launch in October 2022.

When can I buy the Apple Watch 8?

The Apple Watch 8 should be in stores about a week after its introduction and official launch, likely in October 2022.

Straps for the Apple Watch 8

We’ve heard the watch straps will be the same as its predecessor. Order your latest Apple Watch 8 straps from us—wide selection at competitive prices.