This could be the ‘super straps’ of the Apple Watch Series 7 and its backward compatibility with previous straps. We just learned that certain department stores will be selling off their Apple Watch straps. Given this information, there are two possible interpretations. The first is that the straps on the Apple Watch Series 7 will be different, and the second is that previous straps may not be compatible. For now, there’s no word from Apple or Nike, but we can speculate based on rumors and patents that have been popping up for years.
This could be the ‘super straps’ of the Apple Watch Series 7
We have been using the same strap clasp on the Apple Watch for more than seven years. It’s also true that we’ll see a watch body redesign with square edges for the first time.Finally, it’s also true that this appears to be a good moment to start a new chapter in the Apple Watch strap saga, but nothing will be certain until we see the new watches next week at an event.
Many people were concerned that the straps they valued so much, which had been amassed over time, would become obsolete overnight at the prospect of liquidation. The reality is that it’s still too early to say anything like that, but we can take a look again.
We’ve been hearing rumblings for some time about Apple Watch bands changing in the future. We’ve heard buzz about health sensors, displays, cameras, notification systems, and self-buckling straps. We’ve even seen an Apple Watch with no strap—as shown in the graphic below—all watch.
The possibilities of these patents are endless and exceedingly diverse. We might think of a rumored blood glucose monitor, as well as a possible blood pressure measurement, in terms of health sensors. The potential for making or receiving FaceTime conversations is something that appears to be the result of a new super strap, while additional complications open the door to many options.
The phrase “these days” is an indication that the small gadgets are becoming increasingly essential, but it does not necessarily imply that previous ones will be useless. Another concern is whether the new straps provide a significant edge over the old ones, therefore from retail giants we anticipate a significant drop in demand for the latter.
Fastening is one thing, belt technologies are another
Let us suppose that the new straps contain chips and sensors. Does this imply that the fastening mechanism must be updated? Indeed, a method of connecting the watch body to the strap would have to be developed, but this is something that may easily be remedied with a technology similar to Smart Connector.
Some people believe that magnets are the answer, but it’s difficult to trust something as valuable as an Apple Watch to magnetic force. If we’re going to use a mechanical fastening, it may be compatible with previous straps if they change at the end.
The latest Apple Watch Series 4 is designed to be worn on the left wrist. This is something we’ve seen before with the size of the Apple Watch Series 4 changing. Although the previous straps were somewhat narrower, they were still entirely compatible with the new watch. Something similar could happen with the Apple Watch Series 7, but clearly, if sales increase, so will interest in new straps.
Right now, we just have to wait until next Tuesday to find out if the old straps will work with the Apple Watch Series 7. There will be a time when future watches will need new bands, but for now, it appears that progress will move in small increments.
