Apple Watch Series 12 expected to debut new chip, health sensor and ceramic case
Apple is set to launch the Series 12 smartwatch next week, featuring an upgraded processor, an always-on heart-rate sensor and a new ceramic case option.
Apple plans to unveil the Watch Series 12 at its September event, alongside the Ultra 4 model. The upcoming device is rumored to include a new S-class processor, likely designated S12 or S11, that will deliver higher performance and support the AI-enhanced Siri features slated for watchOS 27.
The health suite is expected to be expanded with an always-on heart-rate sensor that can continuously record data, a capability that would bring the watch in line with competing fitness trackers. Reports also suggest the FDA has reviewed an upgrade to hypertension notifications for the new model.
In addition to new band and case options, Apple may reintroduce a ceramic case, the first since the Series 5, offered in white and dark-gray finishes. Bloomberg cited internal testing of both color configurations. Pricing details have not been confirmed, but previous ceramic versions carried a premium price tag.
"Continuously collect data throughout the day — not just when it senses you’re doing intense activity or at other random intervals," said analyst Mark Gurman.
The Series 12 launch is anticipated to provide incremental upgrades over the previous generation while introducing AI-focused hardware improvements.