Last Updated on July 11, 2022 by srinivas
In his latest Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman predicts that the flagship Apple Watch will receive “Pro” branding this fall when the rumored extreme sports edition of the device launches.
Gurman confirms our own conclusion that Apple Watch Pro is the most likely name for the new watch. As we wrote, “Pro is a brand that Apple uses to emphasize the professional features of its Macs and iPhones and iPads, so it would make sense for it to come to the Watch.” Likewise, Gurman writes, “I think the company will probably go for the Apple Watch Pro name and marketing.”
It has been reported that Apple considered the name “Pro” for the original high-end Watch before opting for Edition.
There are of course other possible names for the device, which we also discuss in our article, but Gurman leans towards the theory that Apple is “set to give the Apple Watch its ‘Pro’ level.” Which he says “follows a long history of Apple expanding its product portfolio to include pro models.”
Gurman reiterates his prediction that this new, more expensive Apple Watch will offer the following pro features:
- Larger and more shatter-resistant screen
- Improved walk and swim tracking
- Longer battery life
- A heavier and more robust housing
He also believes that this housing will be made of a non-aluminium metal. “Probably titanium,” he explains, “since it’s much more durable than steel.”
He makes a price prediction based on the current price for the Apple Watch Edition, an Apple Watch Series 7 in a titanium case that starts at $849. He thinks Apple will price the new watch even higher, based on the larger screen ( allegedly 50mm), additional sensors and better materials. “I wouldn’t be surprised if it starts closer to $900 to $999,” he writes.
Gurman also notes that the introduction of the Apple Watch Pro will likely mark the end of the Apple Watch Edition, which has been part of the lineup since the watch’s debut. The original edition cost $10,000 and up and was made of solid gold.
The Apple Watch Pro is expected to launch this fall alongside the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch SE 2.