The Apple Watch Series 12 is set to debut next week at Apple’s September event, arriving alongside the Apple Watch Ultra 4. Ahead of the launch, several new features have surfaced for the next-generation smartwatch. Here are the three most notable upgrades rumored to arrive with the Series 12.
A new S-class chip built for AI
Apple rarely delivers significant updates to its S-class chips. While the company typically changes the naming each year, meaningful CPU gains are uncommon. In fact, last year Apple skipped the S11 entirely and stuck with the S10.
That pattern appears to be changing. Reports point to an upgraded chip for the Apple Watch Series 12, likely named the S12 or S11. It is expected to be more powerful and faster, and it will be the first new Watch chip designed for the AI era. Siri AI is a headline addition in watchOS 27 and should run best on the new silicon, though everyday features are also expected to benefit.
Always-on heart rate sensor and health upgrades
New health capabilities have long been tied to the Series 12. According to reports, the FDA reviewed an upgrade to hypertension notifications that is expected to launch next week.
Another rumored change centers on the heart rate sensor, which may gain always-on support. This would bring the Apple Watch in line with competing products such as WHOOP. According to Mark Gurman, the new Series 12 sensor can “continuously collect data throughout the day — not just when it senses you’re doing intense activity or at other random intervals.”
A Ceramic case option returns
Alongside the usual new bands and case materials, Apple is expected to reintroduce a Ceramic case for the first time since 2019’s Series 5. Reports indicate the company will offer the Series 12 in two Ceramic finishes: white and dark gray. According to Bloomberg, “Apple has tested both white and dark gray configurations for the Series 12 ceramic cases.”
Pricing for the Ceramic option remains unclear. The last time Apple offered a Ceramic case, it started at EUR 1,122, well above the current cost of the Apple Watch Ultra.
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Image: 9to5mac.com
