Apple Watch 3: Rumours, release date and everything you need to know

The iPhone 8 may have been dominating headlines, but Apple could be preparing for another major release at its event in September: the Apple Watch 3.

The Apple Watch Series 3, as it is rumoured to be called, is expected to feature a host of updates and come with the watchOS 4  smartwatch operating system. For the first time, Apple is rumoured to be working on a 4G version that can connect to the internet without a paired phone. 

Apple's smartwatch is known for its health and fitness tracking tools, as well as its unique style.

When will it be unveiled?

There have been multiple reports that Apple will debut its new watch, or at least an updated Apple Watch, in September.

Apple doesn't have a very regular release pattern for the Apple Watch. The original Apple Watch was announced in September 2014 and released in April 2015, while its follow up was announced and released in September 2016, alongside the iPhone 7.

The tech giant could follow last year's release pattern, and unveil the Apple Watch 3 alongside the iPhone 8.

What new features will it have?

The Apple Watch Series 2 is one of the best smartwatches available, but there are still some elements we would like to see added, including 4G and new faces.

It is not clear if Apple will release a new generation of the Watch or instead upgrade the Watch 2. Apple only released the Watch 2 last year, leaving almost a two year gap between the original Apple Watch and the next generation.

The Watch currently has GPS, waterproofing and an internal dual-core processor.

Here some new features we might see coming to the Apple Watch.

4G capabilities

One of the most consistent rumours about the new Apple Watch is that it will be able to operate independently from the iPhone. Current generations of the Watch require a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection to an iPhone in order to send and receive messages, emails or access online apps such as WhatsApp.

This could soon change if Bloomberg's report that Apple is working on Watch SIM cards proves to be correct. 

The move wouldn't be surprising. Apple isn't the first company to consider turning smartwatches into devices that can run independently. Huawei recently added 4G connectivity to its Watch 2,  as did Samsung in the Gear S3 and LG in the Watch Sport LTE.

Voice calls

While some have been hoping that the Apple Watch will have the ability to independently make voice calls, there has been less support for this rumour. Such a move could threaten Apple's flagship device as the Watch could essentially replace the smartphone. 

It is not likely the new Watch will be able to make phone calls, according to 9to5Mac. The Watch is likely to have a small eSIM that shares an owner's iPhone mobile number. So it will be able to use the internet on its own, but not make calls.

Design

Apple is not expected to make significant changes to the Watch's design just yet. KGI Securities has said the Watch 3 will come in the same two sizes that are currently available. Apple has patented designs for a Watch with a screen that extends beyond the watchface or a circular design. But it is expected to retain the square design for now. 

watchOS 4

One development that we are expecting is the deployment of watchOS 4, the latest operating system for Apple smartwatches. 

Apple is adding a host of new features to watchOS 4 that improve user experience and offer greater customisation. It has also created a new set of Disney inspired watch faces.

Better health and activity tracking

Apple's new operating system has improved heath and fitness tracking, including auto-sets for swim workouts, better heart rate algorithms for HIIT workouts and the ability to pair fitness app Gymkit with thousands of pieces of fitness equipment.

Peer-to-peer payments

Personal payments will also be coming to the Apple Watch when Apple updates its operating system. Like on iOS 11, Apple will be adding personal payments that let users to send money within messages or with their voice through Siri.

Price

There has been no word on price for the Watch yet, but it would not be a stretch to expect a 4G Apple Watch to be more expensive than the current model. 

Prices for the current Apple Watch Series 2 start at £369 for a 38mm case and rise to £399 for a 42mm case. There are more expensive versions that include personalised straps, bands and materials.

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