Three new Apple Watch models are expected this year. The robust model, which is intended for extreme sports enthusiasts, could be called Pro.
In the latest edition of his “Power On” newsletter goes Mark Gurman once again talks about the upcoming Apple Watch Series 8 generation. According to his information, the Cupertino company could also discontinue the Edition version in favor of this extreme sports variant. Most of what Gurman addresses in today's newsletter has already been reported on - or other analysts have also talked about it. He assumes that the Pro features of the upcoming Apple Watch will be a larger and more shatter-proof display, improved hiking and swimming functions, a longer battery life and a more robust case made of high-quality, aluminum-free metal.
This smartwatch is designed to appeal to extreme athletes and anyone who would otherwise buy a high-end Garmin sports watch for intense workouts. I also think the larger screen, bigger battery, and metal design make it attractive to anyone who just wants the most advanced Apple Watch.
Gurman believes that this will be called Apple Watch Pro to expand the product portfolio with Pro models such as the MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, iPhone Pro and AirPods Pro. Gurman further writes:
This selling point is similar to that of the current iPhone 13 Pro versus the regular iPhone 13.
Additionally, Gurman believes the move to a rugged Apple Watch will also mean the end of the Apple Watch Edition - he recalls Apple's move from the $17,000 gold Apple Watch to stainless steel and titanium offerings. The Bloomberg journalist says the Apple Watch Pro will also have the S8 chip - the same one found in the Apple Watch Series 7 and Series 6 models - and a new body temperature sensor.
The Apple Watch's energy saving mode is still in progress
As for the price, Gurman believes that Apple could start closer to $900 or $999 due to the slightly larger display, new sensors and higher quality materials. Last but not least, Mark Gurman talks about his prediction on Power Saving Mode. Earlier this year, the journalist reported that Apple is planning this new feature, but it was not announced at WWDC 2022. Now he claims that Power Saving Mode is still in development and should be released around the same time as the public version of watchOS 9 in the fall. (Photo by hadrian / Bigstockphoto)