Apple Unveils New Apple Watch Series 7

The Apple Watch is getting its biggest redesign in years, but you’ll have to look closely to see it. The screen on the Series 7 watch is 20 percent larger than last year’s model — and 50 percent larger than the third-generation model, thanks to shrinking borders.

So what would a larger screen do for you? Apple says it redesigned a lot of buttons to make them bigger and can fit 50 percent more text on the screen. There’s even now a full keyboard available for pecking out texts and emails.

Other changes are minimal. There’s a more durable, dust-resistant screen, and it should charge 33 percent faster — though Apple said nothing about improving the battery life. Apple didn’t add any new health or body sensors like it did last year.

Apple has redesigned its software to fit more information on the screen, the company said. It comes with several new watch faces, including a face that tracks time zones around the world.

The entry-level model is available in five colors, including blue, and red. It also comes in aluminum, steel and titanium cases, all of which have different prices. Previous Apple Watch bands will still work with the new models, the company said.

Apple didn't reveal a release date for the new models but said they would be available "later this fall."

The name of the event was “California Streaming,” but the actual announcement was short on details about its various streaming services. Cook touted popular Apple TV Plus shows, which include Emmy-nominated conversation pieces such as “Ted Lasso,” but did not drill down to viewership numbers.

Home workouts are getting expensive, as apps embrace pricey subscriptions

Apple had a lot more to say about Apple Fitness Plus, the company’s answer to Peloton. The $10-a-month workout service is adding a few new types of exercises, including Pilates workouts and guided meditations. You can see a live video of their face in the corner of your screen while streaming a workout, and add up to 32 people.

Overall, the event checked all the boxes for an annual listing of updates. That’s likely enough for people who already own Apple devices and are just ready to upgrade.

September 15, 2021