Apple Watches Reportedly Poised for Major Health-Focused Upgrades

Apple is preparing to launch a new line of Apple Watches in the second half of the year, with a greater focus on healthcare and satellite connectivity features. As reported in Bloomberg Power On NewsletterThe Apple Watch line, as usual, will receive an update along with the new iPhones. It is expected to be an updated version of the Series and Ultra models, which will look the same on the outside but will have significant updates. Meanwhile, the new version of the cheaper Apple Watch SE will get a new design, the report said.

An Apple spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Specifically, the Ultra 3 watch is expected to include satellite connectivity and access to RedCap’s 5G network (with limited capabilities). It is a simplified version of 5G that requires fewer components and improves energy efficiency. This feature is expected to be exclusive to the third generation Ultra Watch. The Ultra line has not been updated in 2024.

The updates will reflect Apple’s ongoing efforts to position Apple Watch Ultra as a device with advanced tools that will appeal to fitness enthusiasts and tourists who may find themselves in remote locations without Internet access.

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Apple is reportedly working with telecom company Globalstar to expand its satellite services, which could pave the way for more features in the future. While the report doesn’t go into great detail, the new satellite communications could be similar to Emergency SOS via satellite function which debuted on the iPhone 14 in 2022. This feature allows users to send short messages to first responders while offline.

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The new models are expected to have more advanced health tracking. The report states that the high blood pressure detection tool could debut on both the Ultra and Series models. The company is also reportedly developing its health app as well as AI-powered coaching services, potentially integrated with the updated AirPods.

The report also suggests that Apple’s next-generation AirPods could also include heart rate monitoring and other health-focused sensors. Meanwhile, AirTags, which haven’t seen any major updates since their launch in 2021, may also get an updated design with longer range and better location tracking.