Gurman: Apple Watch Series 8 to Bring 'Major Updates to Activity Tracking'

The Apple Watch Series 8 will include major updates in the area of activity tracking and a faster chip that will power all of Apple's smartwatch models in a new-look lineup, according to Mark Gurman.

The Apple Watch Series 8, an updated Apple Watch SE, and a rugged Apple Watch geared towards extreme sports are believed to be coming to customers in the year 2022.

Despite the likelihood that Apple won't introduce a new model, Gurman says the three new models could make this year the biggest in the history of the Apple Watch. Gurman:

I think this year will be the biggest in the history of the Apple Watch since the original model. I'm looking for three new models this fall: an Apple Watch Series 8, an Apple Watch SE and an Apple Watch geared toward extreme sports. I wouldn't expect any major new health sensors this year, besides the possible inclusion of the oft-discussed body temperature feature. But look out for major updates to activity tracking and faster chips across the board.

Body temperature, blood pressure, and blood sugar sensors for future Apple Watch models are not expected to be included in the Series 8 because of the possibility of a body temperature sensor being included.

Gurman believes that this year will see the company retire the Apple Watch Series 3, which is currently positioned as an affordable alternative to newer series.

The Apple Watch Series 8 could look similar to the Apple Watch Series 7, as Apple just increased the display size with the Series 7 models and usually sticks with a display size for a couple of years.

That is not a foregone conclusion. Prior to the release of the Apple Watch Series 7 there were rumors that Apple was working on a refreshed design with flat edges. It could still appear, just for the Series 8 rather than the Series 7, because of the number of rumors that confirmed Apple was planning such a design.

The Apple Watch Series 8 could come in three sizes instead of two, with Apple adding a larger size that would join the 41 and 45mm size options, according to a display analyst.

We have a dedicated guide for everything we know about the upcoming Apple Watch Series 8.