Apple Watch 2024: Revamped Design with Blood Pressure Monitoring and Sleep Apnea Detection

Apple made several updates to the Apple Watch lineup in 2023, but according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the 2024 Apple Watch models are anticipated to introduce a compelling new feature set, enhancing their appeal to consumers. In his Power On newsletter, Gurman hints at at least one Apple Watch model receiving an updated look, suggesting it could be the standard Apple Watch undergoing a design refresh.

Although Apple introduced the Apple Watch Ultra in 2022, with rumors of a larger microLED display, the incorporation of microLED technology may not occur until 2025 or 2026.

The Rumors About Apple Watch 2024

Gurman, in previous reports, has indicated that Apple is working on a significant update in celebration of the tenth anniversary of the Apple Watch. While the Apple Watch was announced in September 2014, its launch took place in April 2015, making it unclear whether the “tenth anniversary” refers to 2024 or 2025. The expected “Apple Watch Series 10” is due in 2024, and with Gurman pointing to a design update next year, it could potentially be the commemorative “anniversary” model.

The updated Apple Watch might feature a thinner design and a new magnetic mechanism for band connection, but the standout additions could be in the realm of health features. Gurman suggests that the next-generation Apple Watch is likely to incorporate capabilities for detecting hypertension and sleep apnea, two widespread health conditions.

Hypertension detection will involve monitoring blood pressure on the wrist, a noteworthy engineering achievement. Gurman notes that the Apple Watch will be able to alert wearers if their blood pressure is trending upward, allowing them to share this information with medical professionals. However, specific systolic and diastolic measurements may not be provided initially, with the potential for such precision in future versions.

For sleep apnea detection, the Apple Watch will leverage sleep measurements and breathing patterns, offering users insights into the presence of the condition. Given that traditional sleep apnea detection often requires overnight studies in sleep centers, the Apple Watch could simplify the process, providing at-home warnings about the condition. This could be particularly beneficial for individuals with mild cases of sleep apnea who may be unaware of their condition.

Apple typically refreshes the Apple Watch on an annual basis, and the anticipated new model is expected to debut around September 2024, aligning with the release of the iPhone 16 lineup.