Apple Considers Screenless Fitness Tracker to Expand Wearable Lineup Beyond Smartwatches

Apple is reportedly developing a novel health and fitness tracker to broaden its wearable lineup, distinct from their existing smartwatches, according to Bloomberg. The source claims that Apple's device, which would be worn on the wrist, would resemble a thin fabric band with a sensor-equipped computing module, but without a screen or a complicated interface, focusing solely on fitness and health monitoring.

This development follows Google's introduction of a screenless wearable called Fitbit Air in May and Garmin's fitness device without a display. Apple has been researching this new category for several months and is currently creating prototypes, although no release date has been set yet, with estimates placing it at around 2028.

The company is also planning to update its smartwatch lineup in late 2027 or later. Apple CEO John Ternus announced during his first remarks to employees on September 1 that the company has more product launches in the pipeline, including beyond the upcoming iPhone. It was also reported on September 8 that Apple acquired Sonera, a sensor technology firm, in May.

Sonera specializes in non-invasive sensors that can measure brain neural signals, offering benefits such as muscle monitoring and active thought control of devices. Additionally, Apple announced a new feature called Siri Recap in beta later this year for the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, which will automatically generate a summary of a conversation.