Apple Watch shipments have declined for the second straight year, according to a new report from Counterpoint Research. The tech giant saw a 19% drop in 2024, contrasting with overall growth in the global smartwatch market. Analysts attribute part of this decline to Apple’s decision not to release an updated budget-friendly SE model, which previously helped drive sales.
Industry watchers now speculate whether a refreshed SE model, alongside potential feature upgrades across the lineup, could reverse the trend. Apple’s annual September event, where new wearable hardware is typically unveiled, may provide answers.
Meanwhile, Apple rolled out watchOS 11.5, a minor update focused on performance optimizations and bug fixes rather than major new features. Users are encouraged to install it for improved stability.
Acer Enters Smart Ring Market with FreeSense
Acer has introduced the FreeSense Ring, its first foray into the competitive smart ring segment. The device offers standard health tracking, including sleep and vitals monitoring, alongside AI-driven wellness insights. Unlike some rivals, Acer confirms the FreeSense will not require a subscription, potentially making it a more accessible option.
Early details remain sparse, but hands-on testing will determine whether it can challenge established players like Oura and Samsung.
Huawei Watch 5 Introduces Innovative Health Sensor Button
Huawei’s latest smartwatch, the Watch 5, features a new multi-sensing X-TAP button designed to enhance health readings. The button reportedly improves signal quality by 10 to 50 times, enabling faster blood oxygen measurements, ECG scans, and arterial stiffness assessments.
However, the device remains unavailable in the U.S., limiting its global reach.
Garmin Upgrades Forerunner Series with Flashlight and Call Features
Garmin has unveiled the Forerunner 570 and 970, the latest additions to its popular fitness watch lineup. Key upgrades include:
- A built-in flashlight for nighttime runners
- Speaker and microphone for calls and voice commands
- Advanced running metrics and sleep coaching
- Extended battery life (11 and 15 days, respectively)
Priced at 750, the watches are now available for purchase.
Samsung Launches Exclusive Galaxy Ring Color in South Korea
Samsung has introduced a Two-Tone Titanium Black variant of its Galaxy Ring, but it’s only sold at the company’s Gangnam store in South Korea. The limited-edition color coincides with the launch of the Galaxy S25 Edge.
VisionOS 3 May Introduce Eye-Controlled App Navigation
Apple’s VisionOS 3, the next update for the Vision Pro headset, is reportedly testing eye-scrolling functionality, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. If implemented, users could navigate apps using only their gaze, further refining the headset’s hands-free experience.
