In a new rumor report published this morning we're learning that Apple is preparing for an Anniversary model for Apple Watch, which is temporarily being dubbed, "Watch X." Like most of Apple's products, they incrementally evolve annually, and at times, boringly so. While not much will be upgraded on Apple Watch in Q4, "Watch X" in 2024 could bring the biggest upgrade ever, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

Gurman adds that "With the X model, Apple designers are working on a thinner watch case and have explored changing the way bands are attached to the device. Apple is  exploring a new magnetic band attachment system, though it’s unclear if it will be ready or used in the Watch X revamp. Other changes being considered include a new microLED display and technology for monitoring blood pressure." Below is simple list of Apple Watch patents relating to blood pressure and new fitting systems.   

Blood Pressure 01, 02 and 03; Band adjustment systems 01 02 and 03. Of course one watch feature update most Apple fans would be thrilled to have is a camera for Face ID and taking photos (normal or spy styled): 01, 02.

Last week we posted an Apple patent covering an in-air gesturing system to Apple Watch to assist in controlling virtual object on a monitor, be it a Mac or TV (via the Apple TV box). In April 2023, we posted another supporting patent report titled "Apple patent reveals smart-bands with embedded micro-machined ultrasonic transducers to detect touch, biometrics, hand-gestures+. You could check out our Apple Watch patent archive for other possible features that may be on tap for Watch X.

M3 Processor Road Map

The Bloomberg report also mapped out Apple's M3 roadmap based on developer logs as follows:  

M3

• Specifications: eight CPU cores (four performance and four efficiency) and 10 GPU cores.
• Macs that will use the chip: Base MacBook Pro, 13-inch MacBook Air, 15-inch MacBook Air, Mac mini, iMac. (The next iPad Pro will get the M3 as well.)

M3 Pro

• Base configuration: 12 CPU cores (six performance and six efficiency) and 18 GPU cores.
• Top configuration: 14 CPU cores (eight performance and six efficiency) and 20 GPU cores.
• Macs: 14-inch MacBook Pro, 16-inch MacBook Pro, Mac mini.

M3 Max

• Base configuration: 16 CPU cores (12 performance and four efficiency) and 32 GPU cores.
• Top configuration: 16 CPU cores (12 performance and four efficiency) and 40 GPU cores.
• Macs: 14-inch MacBook Pro, 16-inch MacBook Pro, Mac Studio.

M2 Ultra

• Base configuration: 16 CPU cores (12 performance and four efficiency) and 32 GPU cores.
• Top configuration: 16 CPU cores (12 performance and four efficiency) and 40 GPU cores.
• Macs: 14-inch MacBook Pro, 16-inch MacBook Pro, Mac Studio.

The Bloomberg report also touched on Apple's new trademark filings for "Reality Pro." Patently Apple covered Apple's Hong Kong trademark filing on August 05 for "Reality Pro OS," as presented in-part below. 

For more information, review the full Bloomberg report.