Apple may launch smart ring before round Watch

Apple may be exploring a round design for its next Apple Watch, according to new details from a reliable source.

The tech giant has long stuck to a rectangular display for its smartwatch, but internal discussions and prototypes suggest a circular version is on the table. However, industry watchers say a smart ring—like Samsung’s Galaxy Ring—is a more likely near-term product. Apple has reportedly tested ring designs in recent years, positioning it as a companion to the iPhone and Watch rather than a standalone device.

A round Apple Watch would mark a significant shift, aligning with traditional watch aesthetics and potentially appealing to a broader audience. But the move would also require major software adjustments, as watchOS is optimized for rectangular screens. Meanwhile, a smart ring could focus on health tracking, with sensors for sleep, heart rate, or even blood glucose monitoring—areas where Apple is already investing heavily.

No release dates have been confirmed, but the company’s interest in both form factors signals a push to expand its wearables lineup. A ring could arrive first, given its simpler design and lower development hurdles, while a round watch might take longer to perfect. Either way, Apple’s next wearable could redefine how users interact with its ecosystem.