Apple marked the 10th anniversary of its iconic smartwatch with the debut of the Apple Watch Series 10, offering refinements rather than radical changes. While the latest iteration maintains the familiar aesthetic of its predecessors, it introduces a sleeker profile and marginally larger displays—now 42mm and 46mm, up from 41mm and 45mm in the Series 9. Despite the gradual size increases since the Series 7, both models remain comfortable for daily wear.
The Series 10 boasts a display 40% brighter than previous versions, with an always-on mode that refreshes every second—a significant improvement over the once-per-minute update on older devices. Hands-on testing revealed the tangible benefits of the slimmer, lighter design, particularly for users accustomed to bulkier models like the Ultra 2. The titanium variants, including a striking new rose gold option, further elevate the premium feel.
Style and Functionality Refined
Color options cater to diverse tastes, with the jet-black Series 10 and all-black Ultra 2 standing out as sleek, modern choices. The latter’s Milanese Loop band, however, features a clasp that may require some adjustment for new users.
Health Innovations on the Horizon
A preview of the upcoming sleep apnea detection feature—pending FDA approval—showcased Apple’s continued focus on health tech. Unlike existing solutions that rely on SpO2 sensors, Apple’s approach leverages the accelerometer to classify breathing disturbances as “elevated” or “not elevated.” This workaround is timely, given the company’s ongoing patent dispute with Masimo over blood-oxygen technology.
Review units are expected soon, with rigorous testing to follow. For now, the Series 10 proves that a decade in, Apple’s smartwatch evolution prioritizes thoughtful iteration over reinvention.
