Apple Watch to get GPS, Barometer in Fall Update

Apple reportedly has plans to introduce new Apple Watch models this fall with a GPS and barometer. The new features will be packed into a design that looks essentially the same as the original Apple Watch to accommodate a larger battery.

Apple Watch to get a refresh this fall with GPS and barometer

Along with a GPS and barometer, the new Apple Watch will sport a faster processor built by TSMC, a thinner display, and improved waterproofing, according to KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. He also said the new models will come with the same 38mm and 42mm screen sizes as the current Apple Watch.

The first generation Apple Watch will get improved waterproofing and a faster processer this fall, along with a price cut. The GPS and barometer will be second generation-only features.

Ming-Chi Kuo’s prediction comes from speaking with his supply chain sources.

He doesn’t expect to see LTE wireless data support on the Apple Watch until 2017, and health-related features requiring FDA approval won’t be coming until some time between 2018 and 2020.

Apple’s Busy Fall

Apple Watch isn’t the only product Apple is expected to roll out this fall. iOS 10, watchOS 3, and macOS Sierra are are all coming soon, and iPhone 7 is expected in early September. Odds are the new iPhone models and operating system upgrades will hit at about the same time.

The new iPhone models are said to drop the 3.5mm headphone jack and carry audio over the lightning port instead. Reports also say the iPhone 7 will get improved cameras, redesigned antennas, a solid state home button, and faster processors.

Apple hasn’t hinted at new watch models yet, but with the current model about a year and a half old, many are hoping for a refresh soon. While a September refresh would be nice, we haven’t seen any leaked parts yet—something that typically happens in the weeks leading up to a product launch. We’re seeing plenty for the iPhone, but nothing for the Apple Watch.

Assuming we are getting new Apple Watch models soon we’ll most likely hear about them during September’s iPhone 7 launch event, so we have to wait only a few weeks to see if Ming-Chi Kuo is right.

[Thanks to Mac Rumors for the heads up]

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