It seems Apple is expected to just make do with smaller tweaks in 2026, and no major overhaul is expected this year. Most likely Apple will have a full redesign in 2028. This is as per a new leaked post on Weibo by the leaker Instant Digital. As per the leaker, Instant Digital, It looks like Apple may not introduce a new design for its smartwatch lineup until 2028. Making it four years after the last major update with the Apple Watch Series 10 in 2024.
Apple Watch Leaks
Apple Watch leaks suggest that this would push any significant visual shift well beyond the next few release cycles and hints that Apple may wait until after the 20th anniversary iPhone arrives in late 2027 before it shows off a new watch exterior.
Again, it is rumoured that next year there could be no major changes in the design in the Apple Watch lineup, and the redesign not coming before 2028, according to the leaker Instant Digital.
Apple Watch Lineup
As per the leaker, there would not be much difference in the Apple’s watch 2026 lineup, and that the company would not reveal a new design until the year after the release of 20th anniversary iPhone that is expected in late 2027.
This is a disappointment for buyers as they were expecting a major Apple Watch redesign next year.
Previous Redesign Rumors
Previously, DigiTimes had claimed that at least one 2026 Apple Watch model would bring a “significant” design update. Also, reporting by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggested that a thinner case and a magnetic band system is possible as part of a potential revamp.
Apple did slim down the Series 10 watch, but no magnetic attachment arrived, and in 2025, Series 11’s silhouette mostly remained the same.
Apple’s Touch ID
Leaked Apple code has suggested the company is experimenting with biometric authentication in the form of Touch ID for 2026’s Apple Watch lineup, but it’s possible that could be an under-screen implementation which doesn’t change the watch’s outward appearance.
The delay in redesign in some way reflect on Apple’s maturing wearable strategy. Instead of just overhauling external design every few years, the company is wanting to focus on delivering better features and performance.
As with any leak, one needs to understand that this is not going to always true, but if true then you will have to wait for the big style shift until 2028.
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