Watch Series 7
A new design, refreshed interface, and improved durability
While many of us expected a flat-edged Apple Watch to take to the stage at Apple’s September event, the company surprised everyone with a totally different design. Instead of an iPhone-like right-angled chassis with flat sides, the Apple Watch Series 7 actually has a more rounded shape than the Series 6.
That softer design is paired with a screen that is 70% brighter with your wrist down, so surreptitiously checking the time should be less of a strain on your eyes. It also offers 20% more screen space than last year’s model thanks to borders that are 40% thinner, with the larger display meaning the Watch now comes in 41mm and 45mm sizes. And don’t worry, the new dimensions are compatible with existing bands.
Bigger and better
With a larger screen, Apple has reworked the watchOS interface, with more rounded buttons matching the external enclosure. The company says you can now fit up to 50% more text on the screen, complemented by a full keyboard that you can tap or swipe. That should make tapping and texting on the go a lot faster and easier.
Apple says the Series 7 is the most durable Watch ever, with a new IP6X dust-resistance rating and a more crack-resistant frame to help protect against dents and dings.
Its 18-hour battery is improved too, charging 33% faster than the Series 6 thanks to a new USB-C charging cable. It can go from 0% to 80% in 45 minutes, and just eight minutes of charging is enough for eight hours of sleep tracking.
There are new colours for the stainless steel, Nike, and Hermès Watches, while popular bands get new colours too. Prices for the Apple Watch Series 7 start at £369, that’s £10 less than the Series 6 was when it launched last year. We hope to bring you our in-depth review next issue!