Apple, known for its innovative technology products, is reportedly facing a delay in the launch of its next-generation Apple Watch, the Apple Watch Ultra 3.
According to Ming-Chi Kuo, a well-known Apple analyst, the new model might not hit the market in 2024 as expected.
At a recent event, Apple unveiled the Apple Watch Series 9 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2, along with the iPhone 15 series.
Kuo suggests that the development of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 hasn’t even started yet. This is unusual for Apple, which typically follows a more predictable product development schedule.
Kuo, in his blog post, mentioned that the delay could be due to Apple needing more time to develop innovative health management features and to address manufacturing challenges, especially those related to Micro LED production.
If Apple doesn’t start working on the Apple Watch Ultra 3 by December, it’s almost certain that the launch won’t happen in 2024.
This potential delay could impact sales. Kuo predicts that shipments for the high-end Apple Watch could decline by 20-30% year-on-year in 2024, with total Apple Watch shipments possibly falling to about 35 million units.
Despite this setback, Apple has a busy schedule ahead with several new products lined up. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that Apple plans to launch new iPad models around March 2024, including refreshes for the iPad Air, the entry-level iPad, and the iPad mini.
A refreshed 24-inch iMac is expected at an upcoming event, with a larger Pro version with a 32-inch display slated for late 2024 or 2025.
Apple is also working on a major update for its AirPods lineup. Two new fourth-generation AirPods and a new version of the high-end AirPods Max headphones are expected next year. These updates will include USB Type-C charging, new designs, and significant audio quality improvements.
In the meantime, Apple continues to enhance its current products. The company recently rolled out watchOS 10.1, which introduced a new double-tap feature for the latest Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2.
This feature allows users to perform actions like answering calls or replying to messages by tapping their index finger and thumb together twice.
