New ‘Apple Watch Pro’ might not be compatible with existing Apple Watch bands

As we near Apple’s upcoming “Far out” special event on Wednesday, September 7, where the Cupertino company is expected to announce the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro, Apple Watch Series 8, Apple Watch SE 2, all-new rugged Apple Watch, and more, a new rumor is claiming that the forthcoming rugged Apple Watch Pro won’t be compatible with Apple’s line of existing Apple Watch bands and straps.

To date, all Apple Watch models have been compatible with the bands and straps Apple introduced with the very first Apple Watch, however, the rugged Apple Watch Pro is expected to feature a larger display with a squared-off design, Weibo user UnclePan (via MacRumors) has suggested that the new wearable won’t be compatible with existing Apple Watch accessories and will launch with its own range of compatible bands for the larger device.

As for the Apple Watch Series 8 and new Apple Watch SE 2 that are also expected to be announced at the September event, these new wearables will likely continue to support all existing Apple Watch accessories as neither device is expected to receive major design changes compared to the existing versions.

The ‘Pro’ Apple Watch has long been rumored to offer a larger and more shatter-resistant display, enhanced hiking and swim tracking, longer battery life and a heftier and rugged case made from a premium metal material, most likely titanium, likely replacing the Apple Watch ‘Edition’ series that was previously the most premium Apple Watch available.

Image: Apple

It is understood that the new Apple Watch Pro models will be bigger than the 41mm and 45mm sizes of the current-generation Apple Watch Series 7, offering users improved battery life, enhanced durability and new temperature sensors to offer an approximate body temperature measurement.

The new high-end Apple Watch Pro has been rumored to cost $900 upwards, around the starting price of an iPhone 13 Pro.