The Apple Watch is about to celebrate a decade of existence, and rumors about a special anniversary edition — the Apple Watch X — are intensifying month after month. From a completely redesigned body to micro-LED display technology and non-invasive blood glucose monitoring, what Apple is planning looks like the biggest leap in smartwatch history. Here is everything we know as of February 2026.
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Why the Apple Watch X Matters So Much
Apple has a tradition of celebrating major milestones with special editions. The iPhone X in 2017 was such an example, bringing radical design changes. The Apple Watch originally launched in April 2015, and 2027 marks the time when the line truly matured starting with the Series 2. Analysts expect something equally revolutionary for the next chapter.
The current Apple Watch design has not changed dramatically since the Series 4 in 2018. Yes, the displays grew larger and the bezels shrank, but the fundamental form factor remains the same. The Apple Watch X is expected to be the first truly radical refresh in nearly a decade of the product line.
The New Thinner Design
The most consistent rumor concerns a dramatically thinner body. Sources close to the supply chain report that the Apple Watch X will be approximately 2mm thinner than current models. That might sound minor, but on a watch it makes a tremendous difference in how it feels on the wrist and how it looks under a shirt sleeve.
To achieve this, Apple is reportedly redesigning internal components from the ground up. New battery technology with higher energy density, a thinner Taptic Engine, and smaller sensors will allow the reduction in thickness without sacrificing battery life. In fact, some reports suggest the battery will be slightly better despite the smaller dimensions, thanks to the efficiency gains from the new chip and micro-LED display.
New Magnetic Band System
The most radical change involves the band system. Apple is designing a new magnetic attachment mechanism that replaces the traditional lugs. This will make the watch even thinner at the connection points and allow band changes in <3 seconds. Naturally, this means existing bands will not be compatible with the new model.
Micro-LED Display
The transition from OLED to micro-LED is one of the most anticipated upgrades. Micro-LED technology offers higher brightness, better energy efficiency, and exceptional longevity without the risk of burn-in that plagues OLED panels. Compared to current OLED displays, micro-LED can achieve brightness above 3,000 nits, making it readable in the harshest sunlight.
Apple has been developing its own micro-LED technology internally for years. Factories in California are testing displays in watch-appropriate sizes, and production yields appear to have reached acceptable levels. The larger display inside the same case size will mean even thinner bezels, practically nonexistent ones that make the screen feel like it floats on the wrist.
Non-Invasive Blood Glucose Monitoring
If there is one feature that would characterize the Apple Watch X as truly revolutionary, it is non-invasive blood glucose monitoring. Apple has been working on this for over a decade, with hundreds of engineers dedicated to the project. The technology uses near-infrared spectroscopy to measure glucose levels without breaking the skin.
According to sources, the initial version will not provide precise glucose numbers but instead inform users about trends, specifically whether glucose is rising, falling, or remaining stable. This does not replace medical devices, but it could help millions of people with diabetes or pre-diabetes monitor their health more effectively throughout the day without painful finger pricks.
The Apple Watch X will not merely be an upgraded watch. It will be the beginning of a new era in wrist-based health technology.
— Mark Gurman, BloombergImproved Satellite Connectivity
Following the introduction of basic satellite functionality in recent iPhone models, Apple is expected to bring improved satellite connectivity to the Apple Watch X. This would mean SOS via satellite directly from your wrist without an iPhone nearby, something particularly important for hikers and climbers who venture into remote areas with no cellular coverage.
The new antenna may also support basic messaging via satellite, not just emergency SOS. This would make the Apple Watch X the first smartwatch that can truly function completely independently, even without any cellular network coverage at all.
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The Evolution of Apple Watch Over 10 Years
Looking back, the evolution is remarkable. The first Apple Watch in 2015 had a slow processor, a small display, and one-day battery life. Today, the 2026 models feature an S10 chip running on-device machine learning, an always-on display with 2,000 nits brightness, sensors for ECG, SpO2, temperature, and battery life reaching 36 hours on a single charge.
The price has increased significantly over the years. The original Sport Edition cost 349 USD, roughly 320 EUR at the time. Today, a Series 10 starts at 449 EUR while the Ultra 2 reaches 899 EUR. The Apple Watch X is expected to be priced above 549 EUR, with premium editions potentially exceeding 999 EUR for titanium and special finishes.
Comparison with Series 11 and Ultra 3
Apple is expected to release three models in 2027: the Apple Watch X replacing the standard Series line, a third-generation Apple Watch SE, and an upgraded Ultra 3. The Watch X will feature the new design and micro-LED display, while the Ultra 3 will retain its rugged construction but adopt some of the new technologies as well.
The key difference is that the Watch X targets the mainstream consumer with a thin, elegant design, while the Ultra 3 addresses extreme athletes and professionals. If micro-LED is exclusive to the Watch X at launch, it will serve as a powerful purchase incentive even for current Ultra owners who value display quality.
Could It Replace the iPhone?
With cellular, satellite connectivity, payments, maps, and a more powerful processor, the Apple Watch X comes closer than ever to replacing the iPhone for basic daily tasks. It will not fully replace a smartphone, but for short outings where you do not want to carry a phone, it will be perfectly sufficient for calls, messages, payments, and navigation.
Expected watchOS Updates
The Apple Watch X is expected to launch with watchOS 14, which will include advanced AI capabilities. Siri will be able to analyze health data in depth, suggest routine changes based on your measurements, and function as a genuine personal health assistant. Smart Stacks will become even more context-aware, automatically displaying the right information at the right moment.
New watch faces designed specifically for the larger display will take full advantage of micro-LED technology, with vivid colors and smooth animations. Apple may even open the SDK for third-party watch faces, something users have been requesting for years since the original launch.
Release Timeline
The most likely release date is September 2027, following Apple's traditional announcement cycle. However, given the significance of the product, there is a possibility of a special event earlier, perhaps June at WWDC 2027, with availability starting from September. Pre-orders typically open one week after the announcement event.
For those considering buying an Apple Watch now, the advice is to wait if you can. If you need a watch immediately, the Series 10 at 449 EUR remains an excellent choice and you will not be disappointed. But if you can afford to wait roughly 18 months, the Apple Watch X will be well worth the patience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will the Apple Watch X cost?
Based on current estimates, the price will start at about 549 EUR for the base model. Premium editions with a titanium case could reach 999 EUR or more.
Will existing bands be compatible?
If the new magnetic band system is confirmed, current bands will not be compatible. Apple is expected to launch an entirely new band lineup alongside the watch.
Will it really measure blood glucose?
The initial version will most likely show glucose trends such as rising, falling, or stable rather than precise numbers. It will likely require FDA and CE approval before full functionality is enabled for medical use.
Will the Ultra 3 get micro-LED?
That is not clear yet. Some sources say micro-LED will be exclusive to the Watch X, while others report it will reach the Ultra line later, possibly in 2028.
Should I wait or buy now?
If your current watch works well, it is worth waiting. If you need a watch immediately, the Series 10 at 449 EUR is an excellent choice that will serve you well until the Watch X arrives.
