Apple may be on the verge of reintroducing the ceramic Apple Watch, and I have eagerly anticipated this moment.

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      The most visually appealing material for the Apple Watch is reportedly set to make a return.

      Apple discreetly discontinued the ceramic Apple Watch in 2020, leaving fans of the luxurious material puzzled by its absence. For a brief recap, ceramic was the top-tier material in the lineup.

      It was smooth to touch, resistant to scratches, and featured a unique non-metallic appearance, unlike the titanium and aluminum frames. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is currently planning its revival.

      Why is the return of the ceramic case significant?

      While the report doesn't specify, it seems Apple might reintroduce a ceramic version of the Apple Watch with either the Series 12 in September or in 2027. The report also notes that this version will come with new colors and bands, along with various health and fitness enhancements.

      To recap, ceramic is tougher than stainless steel and maintains its shine much longer. Essentially, it offers an ideal combination of luxury and sportiness. This material upgrade could serve as a compelling marketing opportunity for the lineup without altering any features.

      For anyone who missed out before or who has been using a titanium Ultra and isn’t fond of its finish, opting for the ceramic version might be a better choice. Be aware, however, that the ceramic case may increase the price of the Apple Watch significantly.

      What other changes is Apple making with the Series 12 and Ultra 4?

      Reintroducing ceramic is a clever way to refresh the premium segment of the Apple Watch lineup, allowing the company some time to conceptualize the smartwatch's direction for the next decade, as Apple aims for a significant overhaul.

      There’s quite a bit more involved. Besides the ceramic case, both the Series 12 and Ultra 4 are set to receive their first substantial performance enhancements in years. This performance boost could come with new colors, updated band choices, and a range of new health and fitness features.

      Overall, the performance improvements for the Series 12 and Ultra 4, along with the possible introduction of a ceramic case, suggest Apple intends to offer a comprehensive Watch lineup this year.

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      Apple considering a circular design could improve the Watch's functionality

      While Apple may be moving beyond the square design, a round Apple Watch could enhance style and present some software challenges.

      For over a decade, the Apple Watch has resembled a small computer on the wrist. However, recent reports indicate that Apple is exploring round displays for upcoming Apple Watch models, along with other design concepts as it reassesses its wearable lineup. No decisions have been reached yet, but this possibility prompts the intriguing question: would a circular Apple Watch be an improvement, or would it be addressing an issue that doesn’t exist? The answer likely hinges on Apple's vision for the Watch.

      A circular design might finally give the Apple Watch a classic watch feel.

      Apple may significantly increase the pricing of new premium models

      New premium Watch models could be launched above the Ultra and Hermès ranges.

      Apple already offers some very pricey smartwatches, but it may be preparing to raise the bar even higher. According to Bloomberg’s latest Power On newsletter, the company is contemplating new premium Apple Watch models that would surpass the current Ultra and Hermès variants. The costs could escalate quickly; the most expensive current model is the Apple Watch Hermès Ultra 3 priced at $1,399. Even without Hermès branding, the standard Apple Watch Ultra 3 starts at $799.

      Apple is already contemplating a third-generation model for 2027, with a significant redesign planned.

      Apple may be gearing up for its most substantial redesign of the Apple Watch in years, but the company seems to be looking well beyond this year's model. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg reports that Apple is considering a comprehensive revamp of the smartwatch lineup, with plans extending into 2027 and possibly 2028. The report indicates that Apple is exploring options beyond the minor improvements that have characterized the Watch in recent years. Gurman notes the company is considering various screen sizes, types of displays, and even models without screens as it reassesses what an Apple Watch should look like.