Apple’s next-generation smartwatch – likely called the Apple Watch Series 11 – is sparking excitement as rumors swirl about its new features. The Apple Watch 11 rumors point to significant upgrades in health tracking, connectivity, and display technology, based on credible leaks from tech insiders. As the expected September 2025 launch approaches, we’ve compiled the five biggest rumored upgrades for the Apple Watch 11, along with what impact they could have on your user experience. From life-saving health sensors to a potential new screen, here’s what might be in store for Apple Watch 2025 features.
Last year’s Apple Watch Series 10 delivered a slimmer design and larger displays, raising the bar for what’s to come. The upcoming Series 11 is expected to maintain a similar look while focusing on internal improvements and new capabilities. With Apple’s fall 2025 event on the horizon, multiple leaks and reports have highlighted five major upgrades that could define the new Apple Watch. Let’s dive into each rumored upgrade and see what it means for the next Apple Watch.
1. Blood Pressure Monitoring Arrives at Last
One of the most widely discussed Apple Watch 11 upgrades is a long-awaited blood pressure monitoring feature. Reports suggest that Apple plans to introduce blood pressure tracking on the Apple Watch Series 11 and the Ultra 3 in 2025. This would mark the first time an Apple Watch can help users detect hypertension. Apple has been working on this feature for years but faced challenges with accuracy, so it’s still uncertain if it will be ready in time for launch.
The approach is expected to monitor for signs of hypertension over time and notify the user if elevated blood pressure is detected consistently. This means it would be more of an early-warning system rather than a precise medical instrument. This could be a huge development for preventative health, as hypertension is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Early detection through a wearable could encourage users to seek professional medical advice sooner.
2. Non-Invasive Blood Glucose Tracking (The Holy Grail)
Another rumored health upgrade – perhaps the most ambitious – is non-invasive blood glucose monitoring. Apple has been working on this technology for over a decade, aiming to measure blood sugar levels without finger pricks. While progress has been made, the feature is still in the prototype stage and may be several years away from launch.
The idea is for the watch to use optical sensors to read glucose levels through the skin. If perfected, it could alert users to pre-diabetic conditions or dangerous glucose spikes, allowing early intervention. While it’s unlikely to debut on the Apple Watch 11, the ongoing development keeps this feature high on the list of anticipated health innovations.
3. Built-in Camera for Wrist-Top Photography and Visual Intelligence
Apple is reportedly experimenting with adding a camera to the Apple Watch for the first time. This could be a small front-facing lens in the display bezel, enabling quick photo or scanning capabilities without changing the watch’s iconic look.
Rather than enabling FaceTime calls, the focus would be on “Visual Intelligence” features such as scanning QR codes, translating text, identifying objects, or logging meals. Combined with Apple’s growing AI capabilities, a watch-mounted camera could make everyday tasks more convenient and enhance the watch’s role as a productivity tool.
4. 5G and Satellite Connectivity for Better Communication
The Apple Watch 11 is expected to gain a new wireless modem with 5G support. This would mean faster data transfers, smoother music streaming, and more responsive Siri performance on the go. The 5G technology will likely use a low-power standard optimised for wearables, ensuring battery life is not heavily impacted.
There’s also speculation about satellite communication capabilities. This would allow emergency text messages to be sent even without cellular coverage, mirroring the Emergency SOS via Satellite feature on iPhones. Whether this appears in the standard Series 11 or is reserved for the Ultra model, it could make the watch even more valuable in remote or emergency situations.
5. More Efficient Display (MicroLED Hopes and Battery Life Boost)
Display technology could see a big leap forward. Apple has been developing microLED displays, which are brighter, more energy-efficient, and offer higher resolution than current OLED panels. While some analysts believe microLED could arrive in 2025, others think it may debut in a later model.
Even if the Series 11 sticks with an improved OLED panel, users can expect benefits like better outdoor visibility and slightly improved battery life. Given that battery life has long been a user concern, any boost in efficiency would be a welcome improvement.
Conclusion: What to Expect from Apple Watch Series 11
If even a few of these rumors come true, the Apple Watch Series 11 could deliver richer health insights, faster and more reliable connectivity, and a better viewing experience. Blood pressure alerts could turn it into an even more proactive health companion, while 5G and possible satellite messaging would increase independence from the iPhone.
Apple is known for holding back features until they meet its high standards, so some of these upgrades may take longer to arrive. Still, the Series 11 is shaping up to be one of the most advanced smartwatches of 2025, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on your wrist.