First '45mm' Apple Watch Bands Spotted Ahead of Series 7 Unveiling [Updated]

A picture purporting to depict a 45mm Apple Watch band has been posted online in advance of the anticipated unveiling of Apple Watch Series 7 models next week.


This low-resolution, small image was shared by DuanRui on Twitter. It appears to show the bottom of an Apple Watch band. This could be a Saddle Brown Leather Link Band. Although it's not known if this image is reliable, the 45mm size matches a number previous rumors about the Apple Watch Series 7.

According to CAD renderings, the larger Apple Watch Series 7 would have a 45mm display. This is 1mm more than the 44mm display found on the Apple Watch Series 6 model. This could be accomplished by flattening the edges of the casing, which would increase the display's top surface area and reduce the size of its bezels.

Another leaker from China, "UnclePan," suggested that the Apple Watch Series 7 would come in larger 41mm-sized and 45mm cases. This will replace the existing 40mm and 44mm options.

Despite previous leaks, this image shows a possible 45mm Apple Watch size. It is also the first time the larger size has been referenced specifically in relation to Apple Watch bands.

Apple Watch Series 7 41mm and 45mm models will continue to work with previous generations of bands. The size name of the device refers to its size, not the size of its casing. The 38mm Apple Watch bands were functionally compatible to 40mm Apple Watches. 42mm Apple Watch bands were functionally compatible to 44mm Apple Watches. New 41mm and 45mm models will likely work with older bands.

According to leaked images and CAD renderings, the Apple Watch Series 7 will continue using the same mechanical band system. The device's display will be 1mm larger and the edges will be flatter than the iPhone 12 line. However, the height and width of new models should be identical to previous models to allow for compatibility with Apple Watch bands. New models are expected to be 1.7mm thinner than current Series 6 models.

The Apple Watch Series 7 will likely arrive next month alongside the iPhone 13 line-up at a digital event. It features a number improvements, including slimmer bezels and upgraded Ultra Wideband connectivity.



Update: A second image of an alleged Apple Watch Series 7 bracelet has been posted online. The blue Braided Solo Loop is apparently for a 41mm Apple Watch model. This suggests that the previous rumors about smaller devices getting an increase in size may be true.