Over at Apple’s “California Streaming” media event, the company unveiled the long-awaited Apple Watch Series 7 smartwatches, complete with a 20 percent larger screen area than the Series 6 units with a screen that’s up to 70 percent bright indoors.
The units are available in both 41mm and 45mm sizes, and incorporate a new Always-On Retina display.
Apple Watch Series 7 does not feature the expected flattened edge design, now familiar with the iPhone and iPad Pro. However, the chassis has been redesigned to offer softer, more rounded corners. Interestingly, the new display refracts light in its edges to create a wraparound effect, blending it better with the overall curvature of the case.
This change allows for larger screen real estate, and Apple has stated that almost 50 percent more text can now be seen on screen than in the Series 6 models. The new units also feature a new, full keyboard that users can either tap, or slide from letter to letter.
Other new changes include Contour and Modular Duo faces that take advantage of the greater display surface, increased durability, including improved water resistance, and crack resistant front crystal. Apple says that the new display is over 50 percent thicker than in Apple Watch Series 6, adding strength but reportedly not compromising screen clarity.
Health and safety-related changes include improved fall detection and an improved workout algorithm that accurately calculates calories,
Battery charging is now up to 33 percent faster than with the Series 6, with Apple saying it takes 45 minutes to reach 80% full charge. And eight minutes of charging will give enough for eight hours of sleep tracking use. The Apple Watch Series 7 continues to use a proprietary charging puck, but it has now been changed to a USB-C one.
The entry-level Apple Watch Series 7, which is made of aluminum, will arrives in five colors that Apple has dubbed Midnight, Starlight, Green, Blue, and PRODUCT(RED). The stainless steel version will be available in silver, graphite, and gold, plus there will be a space black titanium model.
Per rumors that have suggested delays over product hold ups, plus ongoing delays caused by the global chip shortage, Apple has only announced that the new Watch will be available “in the Fall.”
The Apple Watch Series 7 will start at $399, the same as the Apple Watch Series 6. The Apple Watch SE remains on sale, starting at $279, while the Apple Watch Series 3 is also retained, from $199.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via AppleInsider