Apple Watch Series 12: Three new features coming next week

Apple Watch Series 12 is set to launch next week at the September event, alongside the Apple Watch Ultra 4. Three rumored features for the new watch include an upgraded S-class chip, enhanced health features, and a new Ceramic case color option.

Apple's S-class chips have not received significant updates in recent years, but the company is reportedly introducing an S12 or S11 chip in the Series 12. This new chip is expected to be more powerful and faster than its predecessors, ushering in the first AI-era chip for the Watch. Siri AI will be a key focus of watchOS 27 and will likely run best on the new chip. However, the upgraded chip should also benefit other everyday features.

Health-related improvements are a significant focus for Apple Watch Series 12. The FDA reportedly approved an upgrade to hypertension notifications, which is expected to debut with the new watch next week. Additionally, rumors suggest that the heart rate sensor will support always-on functionality, matching the feature offered by competing products like WHOOP.

According to Mark Gurman, the new Series 12 heart rate sensor can continuously collect data throughout the day, unlike previous models that only sensed intense activity or random intervals.

In terms of design, Apple is expected to debut a Ceramic case for the Series 12 for the first time since 2019's Series 5 model. This will be available in two colors: white and dark gray. While the premium added by the Ceramic case is unclear, it was last offered at $1,299, which is considerably more than the current price of Apple Watch Ultra.