The Apple Watch 7, Apple’s next-generation smartwatch, could be more aquatic than previous versions. The company is reportedly updating the wearable’s swim tracking features ahead of its expected launch later this year.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is “working on new swim tracking features for the Apple Watch.” However, Gurman did not provide any details of how the new features would enhance the current swim-tracking capabilities of the Apple Watch Series 6.
In fact, this information is more or less a footnote in the report spreading rumors of a rugged Apple Watch 7. Last month, people familiar with the project told Bloomberg that a browser-friendly Apple smartwatch is coming to Garmin customers. The outdoor model could use a rubber exterior that is more protective than the well-known aluminum, titanium and stainless steel housings.
This version alone could support advanced swim tracking functions. While the current Apple Watch is rated at 5 ATM (swim-proof to 50 meters / 164 feet), there are more wearable waterproof devices. The recently released Amazfit T-Rex Pro and Garmin Enduro have a 10 ATM rating, for example.
In addition to better water resistance, most of the best sports watches also feature military-grade durability ratings for temperature and scratch resistance.
Of course, the swim-tracking features could arrive regardless of this so-called rugged Apple Watch. Instead, the next watchOS software update or an added sensor on the flagship Apple Watch 7 could improve swim tracking.
Swim tracking updates may not be coming at all, either. Gurman is usually a reliable source for Apple rumors, but information on the company’s next smartwatch has been sparse. There is no guarantee that the little information we have heard is accurate.
We could start to see more credible leaks as we get closer to the Apple Watch 7 release date. The best Apple Watch so far is likely to arrive in late summer or early fall.