Apple Watch enthusiasts may finally see a significant chipset upgrade with the upcoming Apple Watch 9, according to journalist and leaker Mark Gurman. In a Discord channel for his Power On newsletter, Gurman stated that the upcoming models are “due for the updated SoC” and clarified that he believes it will be a new processor rather than a rebranded version of the previous generation. Furthermore, he suggested that the new chipset could be based on Apple’s A15 Bionic smartphone chipset.
The A15 Bionic is the current chipset powering the iPhone 13 series, including the iPhone 13 Pro Max. Although it would be a generation behind by the time the Apple Watch 9 is released, this is not unusual as smartwatches generally have less powerful chipsets compared to smartphones.
While it is unlikely that Apple would directly use the A15 Bionic in the Apple Watch 9 due to size and power constraints, basing a new S chip on the A15 would still likely result in a significant performance boost compared to the Apple Watch 8 and Apple Watch Ultra.
Although the current Apple Watch models do not feel lacking in power, an upgraded chipset would be a welcomed improvement. The use of similar chipsets in previous generations has allowed Apple to maintain performance levels, but a new chipset would offer enhanced capabilities. While other reports suggest that the Apple Watch 9 will have similar screen size options to its predecessor, there are rumors that watchOS 10 could bring a substantial software upgrade. Therefore, a combination of a new chipset and improved software could make Apple’s next wearable feel fresh and exciting.
It is important to approach leaks with caution, but Gurman has a strong track record in providing accurate information. Apple Watch enthusiasts will have to wait until September, likely alongside the iPhone 15 series, to see if these rumors come to fruition.
