If you are currently using an older Apple Watch and considering an upgrade to the Series 11, it might be worth looking at what is expected later this year. While the current lineup is reliable, early 2026 supply chain reports and iOS code findings suggest the upcoming Apple Watch Series 12—likely arriving in September—will introduce several notable hardware changes.
For the past few generations, Apple has maintained a similar internal architecture and sensor layout. However, current leaks indicate the Series 12 will feature a new design approach. Here is an overview of the rumored updates and how they might affect daily use.
The 8-Sensor Ring Design
One of the main physical changes reported for the Series 12 is located on the back of the device. According to supply chain reports from DigiTimes, Apple is updating the underside crystal of the watch.
Leaked prototype designs show a new layout with eight distinct sensors arranged in a circular ring. This doubles the number of sensor components compared to the current Series 11.
The practical application of this change relates to data accuracy. Smartwatches often rely on software algorithms to compensate for movement when the watch shifts on the wrist during exercise or sleep. By increasing the number of physical sensors and distributing them in a ring, the Series 12 could capture more consistent data, regardless of the watch’s position.
This hardware update aims to improve the reliability of heart rate tracking during intense activity and could provide the necessary hardware foundation for future health features, such as blood pressure monitoring.
Potential Touch ID Integration
Typing a PIN code on a small watch screen can be inconvenient, and recent findings suggest Apple might be working on a biometric alternative for the Series 12.
Examinations of Apple’s internal developer code have revealed references to “AppleMesa” linked to the 2026 smartwatch models. “Mesa” has historically been Apple’s internal codename for Touch ID.
While integrating a fingerprint scanner under the display seems unlikely for now, recent patents point toward Apple placing Touch ID directly into the side button. If included, this feature would provide a quicker, more convenient way to authenticate Apple Pay transactions or unlock the device without typing a passcode.
Processor Updates: The S12 Chip
The internal processing architecture of the Apple Watch has remained largely unchanged since the Series 9, utilizing the T8310 family. Reports indicate the Series 12 will introduce a new processor iteration.
Code findings suggest the 2026 models will use a new “Watch8” family processor, internally labeled as the T8320. A new processor architecture typically results in better app performance and improved power efficiency.
For users hoping for better battery life, this updated S12 chip could help extend the daily usage time of the base model, potentially reducing the reliance on Low Power Mode.
Should You Wait?
The internal processing architecture of the Apple Watch has remained largely unchanged since the Series 9, utilizing the T8310 family. Reports indicate the Series 12 will introduce a new processor iteration.
Code findings suggest the 2026 models will use a new “Watch8” family processor, internally labeled as the T8320. A new processor architecture typically results in better app performance and improved power efficiency.
For users hoping for better battery life, this updated S12 chip could help extend the daily usage time of the base model, potentially reducing the reliance on Low Power Mode.
