As we approach the tenth anniversary of the launch of the Apple Watch in April 2015, rumors and expectations about the version to commemorate this date are clarifying details of what we can expect. One of the most significant changes we could see in the 2024 generation of the Apple Watch, possibly called Apple Watch X, is a redesign that would directly impact strap compatibility.
A new system, new belts?
According to Mark Gurman, Apple is planning a major redesign of the Apple Watch for its tenth anniversary. This change would include a thinner case and a refreshed style. Part of this new design involves a modification to the strap attachment system. Currently, the Apple Watch uses a slot system that, although functional, takes up valuable space that could be used for other internal components of the watch such as more battery or new sensors.
Apple’s proposal to solve this challenge is a magnetic fastening system. An approach that would help achieve a slimmer design, freeing up internal space, and that would also mark a significant change in how the straps are connected to the watch.
However, this change raises an important question: will the current straps be compatible with the new Apple Watch model? Since its launch in 2015, Apple has maintained a policy of strap compatibility between different generations of the Apple Watch. This decision has been very well received, as it allows us a variety of options and the reuse of already purchased straps.
With the introduction of a magnetic fastening system, compatibility with existing straps could be affected. While Apple has not officially confirmed this change, and it is still unclear whether this new system will be ready for the Apple Watch X version, the possibility that old straps will not be compatible with the new model is quite high.
It is conceivable that to solve this, third-party manufacturers or Apple itself could develop some kind of adapter that allows compatibility with old straps on the new model. Although, with the information we have at hand as of today, we will probably have to purchase new straps specifically designed for the Apple Watch X. A design, while more traces of a black Apple Watch Ultra appear, that we hope will give us 10 more years of compatibility and will mark the evolution of a watch that, even if we have to buy a new strap, will be even more capable.
