A major redesign appears to be in store for the upcoming Apple Watch Series 7 models, based on recent reports.
According to renders from 91mobiles that were reportedly obtained from supply chain sources, the Apple Watch Series 7 will offer a new design that mirrors the squared-off edges of the iPhone 12 lineup, iPad Pro, iPad Air, and 24-inch iMac. The Series 7 will also apparently be 1.7mm thinner than the Series 6.
Among the more striking changes are the redesigned speaker grilles. On Apple Watch models since the Series 4, two speakers have been set adjacent to each other on the left-hand side. According to the renders, the Apple Watch Series 7 will change the speaker design entirely and feature two speaker grilles parallel to each other along the entire left side.
The renders show that the Apple Watch Series 7's rear sensor array should have the same configuration as the current Series 6 models and the same band connector system. There also appear to be no significant changes to the Digital Crown or side button.
The dimensions given with the CAD renders suggest the Apple Watch Series 7 will feature the same 40 and 44mm casing sizes as previous models. Even so, the new models are expected to feature a larger display.
The 44mm model Apple Watch Series 7 model is said to sport a 1.8-inch display, compared to the current 1.73-inch display in the 44mm Apple Watch Series 6. While no dimensions for the smaller 40mm model were shared, a similar increase in display size can be expected.
This may be achieved may slimmer bezels, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, but it is also worth noting that squared-off edges give the top of the casing a larger surface area that could accommodate a bigger display.
Earlier this year, leaker Jon Prosser shared renders of the Apple Watch Series 7 that were based on alleged leaked images. These pictures showed a design that is virtually identical to the CAD renders shared by 91mobiles, which gives greater weight to the likelihood that this is the design set to emerge later this year.
Both Ming Chi-Kuo and Mark Gurman, who often reveal accurate insights into Apple's plans, have said that the Apple Watch Series 7 will feature a new design.
The Apple Watch Series 7 is expected to be unveiled by Apple as soon as next month, likely alongside the iPhone 13 lineup, offering updated display technology, improved Ultra Wideband connectivity, a faster processor, a bigger battery, and more.
