Various new Apple Watch concepts with round screens, showcasing apple watch overhaul ideas.

Apple Watch Overhaul: New Designs, Round Screens, and Screenless Concepts in the Works

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Written by Seth Sebastian

2026-08-10

Apple’s design stagnation has been a talking point for some time. The spotlight now turns to the Apple Watch, where incoming CEO John Ternus is rumoured to be planning a significant redesign. For years, the watch’s design has remained largely unchanged, sparking critiques.

Apple Watch Overhaul: Fresh Designs on the Horizon

Anonymous sources like Mark Gurman suggest Apple’s industrial design team is keen on innovation. They’ve been exploring multiple directions, from different types of screens to entirely new shapes, signaling a transformation of the product that could redefine it.

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Rendered concept of a redesigned Apple Watch with round display.
A fan-made render of a new Apple Watch design (Image credit: Future)

Exploring New Screen Types

One bold move includes experimenting with watches featuring round screens, aligning with broader trends towards screenless wearables like fitness bands and rings. This change could mark a departure from the long-standing “jelly bean” UI aesthetic, as part of the anticipated redesign.

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Current Apple Watch design appears stagnant, prompting discussions of new concepts.
The Apple Watch has felt stagnant for a long time (Image credit: Apple)

The Case for Change

Since the introduction of the more rounded Series 4 in 2018, updates have been minimal. This renovation presents an opportunity to inject vibrancy into the Apple Watch lineup, making each new release truly distinct.

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Frequently asked questions

What changes are planned for the Apple Watch redesign?

The incoming CEO John Ternus is rumoured to be planning a significant redesign for the Apple Watch, including experimenting with watches featuring round screens and considering entirely new shapes.

Why is a change in Apple Watch design considered?

The design has remained largely unchanged for years, sparking critiques and presenting an opportunity to inject vibrancy into the Apple Watch lineup, making each new release truly distinct.

Who is suggesting a transformation for the Apple Watch?

Anonymous sources like Mark Gurman suggest Apple’s industrial design team is keen on innovation, exploring different screen types and new shapes.