Every September, Apple shows the world what’s possible when design meets engineering. This year’s “Awe Dropping” event delivered innovations that solve problems you didn’t know existed. Your iPhone, watch, and headphones are about to feel ancient.

These changes affect daily life in ways that become obvious once you experience them. Apple redesigned fundamental aspects of how we interact with technology. Here are the ten biggest design insights from Apple’s latest event.

iPhone Air proves ultra-thin phones can be incredibly strong

Apple debuted the all-new iPhone Air, the thinnest iPhone ever made, with pro performance. iPhone Air features a breakthrough titanium design that is elegant and light yet strong. The company solved the biggest challenge in thin phone design.

The back of iPhone Air is now protected with Ceramic Shield, and the front cover uses Ceramic Shield 2, delivering 3x better scratch resistance. This makes iPhone Air more durable than any previous iPhone. Strength and thinness no longer require compromise. Apple reversed years of increasing thickness through engineering breakthroughs.

This creates new possibilities for how phones feel in pockets and hands. The titanium frame provides structural integrity without adding bulk.

Center Stage camera creates perfect selfies automatically

Apple announced iPhone 17, featuring the new Center Stage front camera that takes selfies to the next level. The technology automatically frames selfies and video calls without manual adjustment. Bad selfie angles become impossible with this intelligent system.

The camera tracks faces and adjusts composition in real time. Video calls look professional without any effort from users. Group selfies include everyone perfectly without awkward repositioning.

Machine learning understands photography rules better than most people. The system creates flattering angles and proper framing consistently across all lighting conditions.

Aluminum unibody design revolutionizes Pro model construction

Apple built the iPhone 17 Pro with an Apple-designed vapor chamber that is laser-welded into a strong, light, and thermally conductive aluminum unibody. This delivers Apple’s best-ever performance and an enormous leap in battery life. The design represents a major departure from previous titanium construction.

The vapor chamber enables superior heat management during intensive tasks. Aluminum provides structural strength while remaining lightweight. The unibody construction eliminates weak points found in multi-piece designs.

This design choice prioritizes thermal performance over premium materials. The engineering breakthrough enables sustained high performance without overheating.

ProMotion displays become standard across all iPhone models

The 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion is bigger and brighter, enabling supersmooth scrolling, immersive gaming, and improved efficiency on the base iPhone 17. Apple removed artificial barriers between product tiers. Smooth scrolling becomes available to everyone who buys an iPhone.

Gaming performance improves dramatically across all price points. The technology that made Pro models special now defines the entire lineup. This democratization of premium features shows Apple’s confidence in its technology leadership.

Users no longer need to choose between affordability and display quality.

Ceramic Shield 2 advances smartphone durability science

The new Ceramic Shield 2 front cover is tougher than any smartphone glass or glass-ceramic, with 3x better scratch resistance than the previous generation and reduced glare. For the first time, Ceramic Shield protects the back of Pro devices, delivering 4x better resistance to cracks than previous back glass.

This creates complete protection against drops and scratches. Users can feel confident using phones without bulky cases. Repair costs decrease significantly over the device lifetime.

Apple pushed material science boundaries to achieve these improvements. The technology makes phones more reliable and longer-lasting for everyday use.

Apple Watch gains hypertension monitoring capabilities

Apple introduced Apple Watch Series 11, offering the most comprehensive set of health features yet, longer battery life, an even more durable cover glass, and 5G cellular capabilities. Apple Watch Series 11 empowers users with notifications for signs of chronic high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.

Healthcare becomes proactive rather than reactive with this technology. Users receive early warnings about potential heart problems. Apple Watch positions itself as essential medical equipment.

FDA clearance for hypertension notifications is expected soon, and the feature will be available in more than 150 countries and regions this month. The feature could prevent heart attacks and strokes through early detection.

Sleep Score feature transforms rest quality understanding

With watchOS 26, Apple Watch can help users understand the quality of their sleep and how to make it more restorative with a new sleep score feature. Sleep is fundamental to a person’s health and critical to daily restoration.

The system analyzes multiple factors including heart rate and temperature. Users get actionable insights for improving sleep quality. The scoring system makes complex sleep data understandable for everyone.

This transforms how people think about rest and recovery. Sleep becomes measurable and improvable rather than mysterious.

AirPods Pro 3 delivers world-class noise cancellation

AirPods Pro 3 deliver unbelievable sound quality and the world’s best in-ear Active Noise Cancellation. They remove up to 2x more noise than the previous-generation AirPods Pro, and 4x more than the original AirPods Pro. This advancement eliminates more environmental distractions than ever before.

The updated design helps AirPods Pro 3 fit even better and provides greater in-ear stability during activities like running, HIIT, yoga, and more. Comfort improves alongside acoustic performance. Active users can trust the earbuds to stay secure during intense movement.

The engineering breakthrough makes quiet spaces possible anywhere. Concentration and focus become achievable in noisy environments.

Live Translation eliminates language barriers instantly

Live Translation comes to AirPods, making face-to-face conversations easier by helping users connect even if they don’t speak the same language. The earbuds become universal communication tools for any situation. Language barriers disappear during face-to-face interactions.

Business meetings across cultures become seamless experiences. Travel to foreign countries feels less intimidating. The technology bridges communication gaps through elegant design innovation.

This transforms how people interact across different languages and cultures. Real-time translation makes global communication effortless.

Crossbody Straps acknowledge changing phone usage patterns

The Crossbody Strap is compatible with iPhone 17 Silicone Case with MagSafe, iPhone 17 Pro cases, iPhone 17 Pro Max cases, iPhone Air Case with MagSafe, and iPhone Air Bumper. Apple officially acknowledges that phones function as primary creative tools.

Photography becomes more stable with hands-free operation. Content creators get professional camera stability from their phones. The design makes phones feel more like professional camera equipment than communication devices.

This accessory represents a fundamental shift in how Apple views phone usage. Mobile photography becomes a serious creative medium worthy of professional accessories.

Apple’s September 2025 event shows how thoughtful design solves real problems people face daily. These innovations prove that premium technology can become accessible while pushing entirely new boundaries. The changes affect how we work, communicate, and create content in meaningful ways that will reshape daily interactions with technology.

The post Apple’s September Event Reveals 10 Design Breakthroughs That Change Everything first appeared on Yanko Design.

Liquid Glass – the tech world’s abuzz with this new term from Apple’s design playbook following their reveal of the new slew of operating systems at WWDC 2025. What is liquid glass? Well, it’s a multi-tier strategy on Apple’s part to redefine interfaces, moving away from the minimalist elements to introduce gorgeously refractive glass-like modules instead. These glass elements interact with screen elements by bending light like real glass would. Think of holding a magnifying glass to a newspaper to watch the text around the edges warp while the center stays clear.

There’s speculation that this move towards glass-based interfaces was a conscious effort to further Apple’s spatial interface goals… but to be honest, we were in love with Liquid Glass back as early as 2021. What do I mean? Well, I’m talking about the NightWatch, an Apple Watch dock from 4 years ago that did exactly what Liquid Glass did, amplify the watch’s screen into a gorgeous liquid orb while your watch was charging!

Designer: NightWatch

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The NightWatch, as its name so succinctly implies, is a dock for your watch while it charges overnight. Shaped like a massive orb, this dock turns your watch’s night-time charging face into a massive, magnified alarm clock that’s easier to see. Moreover, the dock amplifies the watch’s audio too (through clever design details), transforming your Watch into a makeshift alarm clock that works remarkably well.

There’s no hidden components, no inner trickery – the entire NightWatch is a cleverly designed, solid piece of lucite that does three things remarkably well. First, it docks the Apple Watch and charger inside it, magnifying the watch screen so the numbers are clearly legible even from a couple of feet away. Secondly, channels located strategically under the Watch’s speaker units amplify the sound (sort of like how your voice is louder when you cup your hands around your mouth) so your alarm rings louder. Thirdly (and this might be the best feature yet), the lucite orb is touch-sensitive. Which means a mere tap on the surface causes your Watch screen to wake so you can see the time!

The dock may have been designed in 2021, but its design philosophies align with Apple’s Liquid Glass push brilliantly. Liquid Glass is all about mimicking real-world materials, bringing physicality to the digital world while still maintaining a pristine aesthetic that boosts focus and highlights important elements. That’s exactly what the NightWatch does too – it takes the Watch’s flat digital interface and brings real-world physicality to it through the refraction and magnification of the clear lucite. It also helps easily highlight important elements by enlarging your watch face for clearer timekeeping. The NightWatch is compatible with all Apple Watch series (as long as your watch doesn’t have a case on it).

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Forget the Apple Watch as you know it. New patents discovered at the USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) show that Apple’s looking to incorporate foldable tech into its smartwatch series. If these patents are foreshadowing the future, we could be looking at a dual-screen Apple watch that basically feels like a tiny flip phone on your wrist. That isn’t all, the patent also looks to factor cameras into the wearable, giving you a tiny yet capable FaceTime device that lets you take video calls directly from your wrist.

The patent, filed by Apple Design Lead Vladimir Krneta, details a potential watch with ‘movable’ screens. While this doesn’t immediately imply a flip-phone-style clamshell smartwatch, Apple’s patent document showcases drawings of one, leading to speculation that maybe that’s the format Apple’s gravitating towards. The rest of the images in this article are visualizations based on the patent documents, created using AI. Although Apple has no immediate plans of launching a folding watch, the fact that they’ve filed the patent means that the R&D branch is working on a potential use-case of a foldable wearable for your wrist… with included cameras that turns the watch into something vastly more useful than a mere health wearable. But will it run Apple Intelligence???

Designer: Apple

“A user may want the display to be extended when using certain applications, making phone/ video calls, playing games, browsing the web, etc,” the patent describes. “On the other hand, the user may want the display to be folded for convenience and portability, such as when the user is going about their day-to-day activities, outdoor activities, etc.”

The patent goes on to highlight other features, potentially turning the ‘health wearable’ into a practical extension of your phone. “For example, the wearable electronic device of the present disclosure can provide intuitive access and enhanced usability of features for convenient video calling, camera usage, web browsing, messaging, and interfacing social media.”

This description is supplemented by the proposed inclusion of multiple cameras – something Apple (and even other makers) have notably left out of their smartwatches. The patent hints at possibly two cameras (like in a phone), one for external capture as well as a wearer-facing camera for video calls.

It’s worth noting that this patent was filed in 2023 and discovered only recently by news outlets combing through the millions of patents at the USPTO. What Apple is doing with the Watch is not too different from what they did with the iPhone, i.e., replace a larger device. The iPhone was supposed to be a powerful laptop that fits in your hand, and now, Apple is scaling it down further, turning the Watch into an iPhone that fits on your wrist.

However, it’s best to take these patents with a massive grain of salt because Apple files hundreds of patents each year, hardly 1% of which actually translate to real products. If the foldable watch does become a reality, it wouldn’t be the first wrist-worn foldable device. A long time ago, Motorola teased a bendable phone that was flexible enough to fit around your wrist like a chunky bracelet. Sony’s even teased smartwatches with e-ink straps that change in color. Although both these are examples of products that never became mainstream, Apple tends to play the long game very well, waiting for the right time to launch the right, polished product. Until then, we apparently have a folding iPhone on the horizon!

The post Apple patents ‘Foldable’ Watch with a Radical Design Featuring Dual-Screens and Cameras first appeared on Yanko Design.

When I first saw the Milanese Loop for the Apple Watch Ultra 2 at the Apple Glowtime event, it immediately grabbed my attention as an impressive leap forward in band design. Inspired by stainless steel mesh historically used by divers, this new Titanium Milanese Loop is made from woven, corrosion-resistant titanium wire. It’s flattened and polished to a stunning satin texture that balances ruggedness and elegance. The parachute-style buckle features dual side-release buttons that close with an audible click, giving a sense of security whether exploring the ocean depths or heading out for a night on the town.

Designer: Apple

This band perfectly complements the Apple Watch Ultra 2’s rugged design, offering lightweight durability while looking refined. Whether heading into a meeting, swimming in the pool, hiking, or deep diving, I know the Titanium Milanese Loop can handle it without sacrificing style or functionality.

Now available in a striking new black titanium finish, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 proves why it’s the go-to choice for serious athletes and adventurers. Featuring the brightest display ever on an Apple device, the Ultra 2’s LTPO2 OLED Always-on Retina display delivers up to 3000 nits of brightness, making it highly visible even in the harshest sunlight. In comparison, the Apple Watch Series 10 offers a display brightness of up to 2000 nits and a wide-angle OLED that increases brightness by up to 40% when viewed at an angle. The Ultra 2 delivers battery life, lasting up to 36 hours during regular use and 72 hours in low power mode, compared to 18 hours of standard usage on the Series 10. Combined with the new Titanium Milanese Loop, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 represents a seamless marriage of aesthetics and performance, capable of handling the most demanding terrains while looking sophisticated enough for any occasion.

Design, Custom Fit, and Next-Level Engineering Marvel

The Milanese Loop design has a long history rooted in traditional chainmail used by divers, but Apple has reimagined it with a modern touch. The Titanium Milanese Loop, crafted specifically for the Ultra, caught my eye from the moment I saw it at the Apple Glowtime event. Made from aerospace-grade titanium, the band is lightweight and corrosion-resistant, offering strength and comfort—a perfect match for the Ultra 2’s rugged yet refined style.

What impressed me most was Apple’s commitment to craftsmanship, as the band is created through a meticulous process of weaving, flattening, laser-welding, grinding, and finely polishing the titanium wire to form a precise, interlinking mesh that balances both strength and flexibility. This design drapes comfortably on the wrist while maintaining durability. I immediately appreciated the dual-button, parachute-style buckle, which made adjusting my wrist’s natural fluctuations throughout the day incredibly easy. Whether due to temperature changes or the ebb and flow of daily activity, I could quickly loosen or tighten the fit without needing to remove the watch. This level of adjustment, down to 1mm, truly made the band feel custom-made for my wrist.

Apple’s decision to use titanium wasn’t only about strength and practicality for everyday use. The dual-release buckle offers peace of mind, providing a secure fit during various activities without any concern about it coming undone. Whether in natural or black titanium, the band perfectly complements the Ultra 2’s new black titanium finish. Achieved through a custom blasting process and enhanced with a diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating, this finish provides excellent scratch resistance, ensuring the watch and band look as good after months of wear as they did the first day I tried them.

The Titanium Milanese Loop combines aesthetics, ruggedness, and sustainability. Made from 95% recycled titanium, this band aligns with Apple’s focus on environmentally responsible materials. In my experience, it’s a stylish, practical, and durable accessory. This blend of qualities makes it a great long-term choice for anyone seeking a band that complements the Ultra 2’s versatility and style.

Fit and Comfort: Tailored for Performance

The Milanese Loop for the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is breathable and flexible, making it a great fit for all-day wear. Depending on your personal preferences, there are a couple of things to consider. While some users with wrist hair might experience slight pulling due to the mesh design, I haven’t had this issue myself.

As someone who prefers a snug fit, I tend to wear my watch a bit tighter to prevent it from moving around, a habit formed from years of wearing traditional mechanical watches. If you wear the Ultra 2 tightly, as I do, you’ll notice a slight indentation after a long day, but there’s no discomfort associated with it. It’s more about leaving a mark than feeling any pain. This tight fit keeps the watch in place, making it feel more secure during physical activities, whether hiking, diving, or running errands.

This band’s ability to adjust down to the millimeter makes it incredibly versatile for any wrist size. It’s great to know Apple offers an extra-long tail version for those needing additional length—whether to wear over a wetsuit or simply because of larger wrists.

For me, the combination of the Titanium Milanese Loop and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is all about striking the right balance between durability, comfort, and design. It’s the kind of band that seamlessly fits into my daily life, whether I’m out hiking, working in the yard, or tackling outdoor adventures. This band doesn’t just look good; it’s made to endure, and it pairs perfectly with the rugged nature of the Ultra 2. The thoughtful engineering and comfort of the Milanese Loop make it feel like it’s built to last, keeping up with the adventurous spirit that the Ultra 2 embodies.

Band Size and Fit

I went with the medium size for the Titanium Milanese Loop, which fits perfectly. The buckle centers squarely on the back of my wrist, which, for someone like me with a bit of OCD, brings a sense of balance that I appreciate. Wearing a watch every day is an intimate experience, and I pay close attention to how it sits—whether it’s a mechanical watch with a deployment buckle or a tang, every detail matters. The centered buckle feels right and adds to the comfort of wearing the Ultra 2 all day.

At the Apple event, I had the chance to try on the small size, but I could barely get the watch past my knuckle. Unless you have particularly thin wrists or plan on wearing this over a wetsuit, I’d recommend opting for the medium. It strikes the right balance for everyday wear, and it offers enough room for quick adjustments when needed.

Here are the official band size details:

• Small: Fits wrists 130–160mm.
• Medium: Fits wrists 155–185mm.
• Large: Fits wrists 180–210mm.

With those ranges, the medium size should comfortably accommodate most wrist sizes. However, for anyone needing extra length—especially for wearing over bulkier gear like a wetsuit—the large size is the way to go. In my experience, getting the right fit goes a long way in maximizing the band’s comfort and aesthetics.

Value: A Long-Term Investment

Priced at $200 on its own or $100 more when bundled with the Apple Watch Ultra 2, the Titanium Milanese Loop might seem like a luxury option for an Apple Watch band. However, compared to titanium bracelets from brands like Rolex and Omega, which typically cost in the range of thousands of dollars, the value becomes clear. Apple has crafted a premium product that brings the high-end feel of titanium—usually reserved for much more expensive timepieces—into the world of wearable tech at a fraction of the price.

For someone like me who regularly upgrades their Apple Watch, the band’s value goes beyond the Ultra 2 itself. Apple’s consistent design language across its product line ensures this band will likely remain relevant with future watch models. Investing in this Titanium Milanese Loop means you’re getting a durable and stylish band that will serve you through multiple upgrades.

Another critical factor is the dual-lock system, which offers unbeatable security. Whether I’m out hiking, diving, or just going about my daily routine, I know the band is securely fastened, giving me peace of mind no matter what. Its durability, ease of use, and ability to adapt across future models make this band a smart investment for anyone who values functionality and design in their Apple Watch accessories.

Final Thoughts

The Titanium Milanese Loop for the Apple Watch Ultra 2 has quickly become one of my favorite bands. It offers that perfect mix of durability, premium design, and all-day comfort, whether in the field or just going through my daily routine. I’ve been wearing it for everything from outdoor activities to long workdays, and it never fails to deliver on comfort and style. I’ll continue to revisit this band in future articles as I spend more time with it. If you have any questions or thoughts about the band, feel free to drop me a note—I’d love to hear your feedback!

The post Titanium Milanese Loop Review: Precision Engineering Meets Luxury in Apple’s Ultimate Watch Band first appeared on Yanko Design.

All four variations of iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro will be able to use Apple Intelligence when it arrives with iOS 18.1. Plus, check out new AirPods and Apple Watches.

It’s almost a fact of an Apple user’s life that owning one product means owning two or three others or even more. iPhone owners are more likely to own AirPods or even an Apple Watch than any other earbuds or smartwatch brand, which does mean they often need accessories that support all two or three. That’s particularly true when it comes to chargers, which is why many Apple-compatible products come in a 3-in-1 design. Unfortunately, those often come with bulky designs to make space for devices, especially where wireless charging is supported because of the space the charging coils take up. This new 65W AC Power Adapter from Nomad, however, has a rather creative solution to that space problem, especially when you need to quickly charge your Apple Watch or even your AirPods.

Designer: Nomad

With so many people owning more than one electronic device, power adapters that have multiple USB ports are a common sight these days. Even Apple eventually launched a dual USB-C charger, though it ironically doesn’t have enough power to support charging multiple Apple devices at the same time, at least not when you have iPhones and iPads and more. Thankfully, there’s a thriving market for third-party accessories, leaving plenty of room for outside-the-box designs like the new Nomad 65W Power Adapter Apple Watch Edition.

As the name says, this particular power brick is designed with Apple’s smartwatch in mind, and it charges it in a rather unique way. The top of the charger is actually a wireless charger that supports not just the Apple Watch but also some AirPods with cases that support wireless charging. For Apple Watch Series 7 and later, it can even do fast charging, so you’ll be off to the races in no time flat.

That’s not the only notable feature that it has, of course. The Nomad 65W AC Adapter features two USB-C ports, each giving the full power output if used on its own, and that’s enough to even charge a MacBook Pro or fast charge a MacBook Air. If used at the same time, however, the top USB-C port indicated with a blue accent will push out 45W of power, leaving the lower port with only 20W.

Best of all, Nomad’s AC charger is nearly half the size of Apple’s official charger thanks to GaN technology. This makes the adapter a great traveling companion, and its creative design will let you easily charge your Apple Watch on a bedside wall socket, no additional charging pads or cables required.

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Do you own an Apple Watch? Cause I do, and it is honestly one of the handiest devices I own. Today, the Apple Watch is considered one of the most popular smartwatches globally, and it’s not a surprising fact when you consider the number of people you see walking or jogging on the street with their Apple Watch smartly strapped around their wrists. And, if you’re someone who absolutely cannot do without their Apple Watch, then this collection of innovative and nifty accessories is for you. From an iPod-shaped cover to bands made from plant-based leather – these super cool accessories are a must-have for Apple Watch lovers.

1. RSTR Case

Called the RSTR Case, this beautiful transparent crystalline case for your Apple Watch is designed to be shown off. Created by Golden Concept, the case converts your Apple Watch into a lovely shimmering jewel that you can wear on your wrist. It is available in four pretty colors and is made using 50 meticulously engineered parts. Crafted from stainless steel, the home and action buttons are bigger than usual and more accessible.

2. tinyPod

Dubbed the tinyPod, this little design wraps up your Apple Watch in a case, and it looks exactly like the iPod! the tinyPod is a perfect replica of an iPod, except that it also has a colored screen. You can control the Apple Watch via an authentic click wheel, however we’re unsure how it manages to do this. But, this is quite an important little detail, as Apple Watch’s digital crown cannot be accessed in this new and innovative form.

3. ErgonBand

This ergonomic Apple Watch accessory may look a little ridiculous and funny, but it is quite functional. The band is designed to be more of a strap, and it resembles those thumb or hand braces used by athletes for protection. The Apple Watch is strapped into place utilizing clips that feature standard lugs, and placed below the joint of your thumb. The location was chosen as this allows the screen to be visible without the need to twist your wrist.

4. Pod Case

Designed by Joyce Kang and C.O Design Lab, this is the Pod Case that gives your Apple Watch a nostalgic touch. It introduces the watch to its ancestor which kickstarted the apple craze. The watch’s screen almost matches the screen size of the classic iPod Nanos, while its body is just a little thicker. The Pod Case is built from silicone, and it smoothly slides over the Apple Watch’s body, providing it with a refreshing yet nostalgic throwback.

5. Y24 Apple Watch Cases

This collection of luxurious and aesthetic Apple watch cases is actually quite price-friendly. They draw inspiration from the lifestyle of Tokyo and are designed by Y24. Each watch design captures the cool and charming vibes of Tokyo and converts that fascinating culture into interesting accessories. The cases have been designed to elevate and upgrade the young generation’s style, providing them with a unique and one-of-a-kind identity, without altering Apple’s originality or personality.

6. NightWatch

Named the NightWatch, this Apple Watch dock features a massive curved glass element on the front, which interestingly magnifies the screen. You can place your watch behind the massive lens, and it seems to enlarge the watch screen, increasing the visibility. It can transform your charging smartwatch into an innovative bedside click. It can even enhance your watch’s audio, which makes your alarm more audible.

7. Wristcam

Dubbed the Wristcam, this little device gives your Apple Watch the ability to click pictures all by itself! It features a front-mounted 8MP camera which can shoot images in 4K resolution, while also recording videos in Full HD. It has a selfie camera which can be used for video calling, or for live streaming. It is amped with 8GB of storage, as well as a long-lasting battery that can support a day’s worth of shooting and fun. It is water-resistant up to 1 meter as well.

8.(Re)Classic Band

Designed by Native Union, the (Re)Classic Band for Apple Watch is a cruelty-free Italian leather-inspired band. The unique band is built from repurposed mycelium, which is basically fungal threads that cover long distances underground. Mushrooms grow and bloom from these fungal threads. It forms a plant-based leather which is also one of the many all-natural resources used in the synthesis of Yatay by Coronet.

9. hardgraft Collector’s Watch Case

This artisanal leather product is called the hardgraft Collectors Watch case. It is designed to store your smartwatch in style and elegance. It has a soft Alcantara lining on the inside and is pretty padded. The exterior is made of vegetable-tanned Italian leather and a scratch-free zipper. It has a round compact form, which makes it portable and pretty easy to carry around. You can pick from three elegant color options – Classic, Coal, and Off Grey.

10. 2-in-1 Apple Devices Charging Stand

Designed by Taesung Yoon, and inspired by the daily sunrise, this is the 2-in-1 Apple Devices Charging Stand. The design does exactly what its name implies. It is created using feedback from data-driven research, and what people truly want from their unified Apple charging stand. It is the perfect integration of form and functionality and features a vertical stance with a slightly arched top which holds your iPhone comfortably without letting it topple over.

The post Top 10 Essential Apple Watch Accessories Every Smartwatch Owner Should Have first appeared on Yanko Design.

The iPhone might be Apple’s one and only portable music player today, but it’s far from being its most iconic. That prestige belongs to the original iPad (not the Nano nor the Touch) whose design, like any other Apple product, was hailed for its beautiful minimalism and unique interface, a design that many have dared to copy even today. Of course, the iPod is now just a footnote in history, but there are still a few who want to relive those glorious days of the past in a way that makes a bit of sense in the present. That might be the idea behind a mysterious new accessory that seemingly revives the iPod but, rather than create a completely new device, it reuses a strapless Apple Watch instead.

Designer: tinyPod

The OG iPod was genius in its simplicity. It provided quick and easy access to dozens of functions with an innovative “click wheel” physical control that avoided overloading the user with buttons and menus. Of course, these days it’s just as easy to peck at the iPhone screen with your finger, but a smartphone brings along other sorts of complications and distractions that go beyond the simple joys of listening to music. At the same time, a dedicated media player no longer makes sense these days since it would be yet another device to buy and maintain in addition to a phone, a tablet, and a smartwatch.

tinyPod seems to be trying to solve both problems by enclosing the Apple Watch in a case that is almost like a perfect replica of an iPod, except for the fact that it has a colored screen. What makes the case more interesting is that, at least based on a teaser video, you can actually control the Apple Watch using what looks like an authentic click wheel. It’s not yet known how it manages to do this, but this will be an important detail since the Apple Watch’s digital crown is inaccessible in this form, so you’ll need some other way to navigate through watchOS without always touching the screen.

The accessory is advertised to deliver an experience that’s like “your phone away from your phone,” which refers to the “watered-down” version of an iPhone that an Apple Watch offers. You can listen to and control your music without having to pull out your phone, but unlike the iPod, you can do so much more as well, like watching YouTube. In a way, it’s sort of like the middle ground between a “dumb” portable media player and a full-blown smartphone.

What little we know about tinyPod through a simple teaser still leaves many questions unanswered. You can probably keep this in your front pocket or even hang it around your neck, but it loses many of the health-related features that the Apple Watch is famous for in those situations. It’s also unknown how Apple will react to such an obvious copy of its iPod design, which could mean the device will be short-lived. Either way, we just have a month or so to wait for all the details to drop for this Apple Watch-powered iPod throwback.

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Welcome to Wristwatch Wednesday, my weekly column on Yanko Design, where I delve into the captivating world of watches. If you’re new to our publication and have noticed a plethora of Apple-related articles, rest assured, our editorial team casts a wide net, covering a diverse range of design-focused products. Our reviews and feature articles span across technology, sneakers, home appliances, everyday carry items, and so much more.

Designer: Apple

This inaugural column seems only fitting to kick off our discussions with the world’s best-selling watch – the Apple Watch. According to a report from AppleWorld.Today, since its launch in 2015, Apple has sold an estimated 229.3 million Apple Watches. Note that these sales figures are estimates and have not been confirmed by Apple. By any standard, a product that surpasses 100 million units in sales—a milestone Apple reached several years ago—can justifiably be called the world’s top-selling watch.

However, my intent with this column goes beyond discussing sales figures. Instead, I aim to explore the design and features of these watches that have captivated the likes of celebrities, Formula 1 drivers, and even esteemed figures like Mr. Wonder from Shark Tank. The reasons for strapping on this wrist-sized computer vary. For instance, my wife primarily uses her Apple Watch to keep track of time and notifications. Despite having cellular service activated, I’ve rarely seen her initiate a call. Yet, there have been instances where her iPhone was misplaced, and the watch served as her only means to take incoming calls. A feature that my kids and I, and yes, even my wife, have found incredibly useful is the ability to ping the iPhone when it’s misplaced.

Before delving deeper, let’s briefly discuss the specs and design of the Apple Watch. In my experience, the Apple Watch performs flawlessly without any noticeable hiccups or performance issues. As for the design, its iconic squarish shape may not appeal to everyone, but it’s something users have come to accept. Personally, I don’t have a preference one way or the other. However, I must say I appreciate the ruggedness of the Watch Ultra, which I still wear. I haven’t seen a compelling reason to upgrade to the Watch Ultra 2, especially when the regular versions in aluminum or stainless steel are also available. The fact that Apple managed to incorporate materials like titanium and sapphire crystal, along with a plethora of features, into this tech marvel, all at a reasonable price point, continues to astound me. That being said, the Apple Watch Series 9 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2, each exceptional in its own right, showcase unique design attributes and features catering to diverse user requirements.

The Apple Watch Series 9 exudes a chic, versatile aesthetic, making it an ideal accessory for everyday wear. Its finishes include aluminum and stainless steel, with a color palette that offers Pink, Midnight, and Starlight for the aluminum cases and traditional Gold and Graphite for stainless steel. On the other hand, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 prioritizes durability and outdoor utility, embodied in an aerospace-grade titanium case that highlights its hard-wearing nature and premium appeal for more extreme conditions.

The size and weight of both models reflect their respective design principles. The Apple Watch Ultra 2, larger and heavier at 49mm in height and 61.4 grams, is designed to withstand outdoor activities. The Apple Watch Series 9, meanwhile, presents a more compact profile with heights of 45mm and 41mm and lighter weights starting from 31.9 grams for the smallest aluminum model, providing a less intrusive presence for day-to-day use.

When it comes to features, both models are built with the S9 SiP, a 64-bit dual-core processor, underlining Apple’s dedication to high performance across its products. However, the Ultra 2 takes a step ahead with specialized features such as a depth gauge, a water temperature sensor, and an enhanced always-on retina display with brightness up to 3000 nits, providing superior visibility in outdoor settings compared to the 2000 nits of the Series 9.

Both models offer a broad spectrum of health and wellness features, including heart rate monitoring and ECG. However, the Ultra 2 broadens its scope to outdoor sports and adventures with additional sensors and activity profiles. This includes in-depth support for diving, precision GPS for explorers, and durability enhancements such as improved water resistance up to 100 meters and dust resistance, making it more resilient against harsh environments compared to the more lifestyle-focused Series 9.

Battery life is another differentiating factor; the Ultra 2 offers up to 36 hours of regular usage and an impressive 72 hours in Low Power Mode, a substantial improvement from the 18 hours offered by the Series 9. This aligns with the Ultra 2’s design for prolonged activities and expeditions where charging might be infrequent.

All in all, while both the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 share core technologies and a commitment to health tracking, the Ultra 2 targets users who require robustness and expanded functionalities in challenging environments, whereas the Series 9 caters to everyday users with its stylish design and enough tech to meet routine health and connectivity needs.

For someone like me, who often travels for work (such as working out of our office in Japan or on a photography junket in Iceland with Olympus), having reliable connectivity is vital. Both Apple Watch models provide cellular options, ensuring constant contact with family or emergency services, wherever your work or adventures take you. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially in remote locations or during unforeseen situations.

The safety features in both watches, including Emergency SOS and international emergency calling, become crucial in such situations. For example, if you’re photographing the northern lights in a remote icy landscape in Iceland and encounter a dangerous situation, the Apple Watch enables you to call for help swiftly. Similarly, when navigating through the busy streets of Tokyo, these features ensure you’re never truly isolated, even in an unfamiliar urban environment.

For families, these watches offer more than just communication. For elderly parents, the fall detection feature can alert you if they have a severe fall, triggering an SOS if they are unresponsive. This reassures you that help can be solicited even when they’re alone.

For young children, the Apple Watch can serve as an efficient tracking device. If your kids are walking to school or attending a playdate, the GPS functionality combined with cellular connectivity allows you to check their location at any time. It’s like having an extra pair of eyes, ensuring their safety when they are out of sight. With the Apple Watch Ultra 2’s enhanced durability and the Series 9’s streamlined comfort, there’s a suitable option for every family member based on their needs and lifestyle.

The Crash Detection feature of the Ultra 2 is especially advantageous for users across different age groups, from young children to the elderly. For example, if a child is involved in a school bus accident, the watch is capable of detecting the severe crash and automatically initiates contact with emergency services. Similarly, it provides reassurance for elderly drivers, as the watch can detect if they’ve been in a severe car accident and automatically call for help. Speaking from personal experience, having spent a decade test-driving cars for SlashGear in remote locations such as on the side of the Alps or the challenging driving conditions in Peru, having this feature offers me a sense of security. I’m reassured knowing that in an unexpected event, I have a better chance of receiving help promptly, thanks to the Apple Watch Ultra 2’s Crash Detection feature.

My passion for watch collection began with the brand Panerai, largely due to its simple mechanism for swapping out the bracelet or watch strap. It’s a feature that led me to spend more on the straps than the watch itself. My experience with the Apple Watch is similar. Its clever design enables a quick strap change with just one button push, making it suitable for various activities or occasions, which enhances its appeal. Since the introduction of the Watch Ultra, I’ve invested more in straps than the watch itself. Interestingly, I’ve found my ultimate favorite – the 45mm cypress solo loop. To me, it’s akin to donning a tailored Italian wool suit. My fondness for the green strap has led me to stockpile size 7 for winter and size 8 for summer. The watch and strap together create an uninterrupted loop when on my wrist. The convenience of putting on and taking off the watch is comparable to slipping on a bracelet. The beauty of the Apple Watch is its versatility; you could purchase a variety of straps to cater to your taste or simply choose one strap that fulfills all your needs.

Before wrapping up this lengthy article, I’d like to shift focus to the health functionalities that are particularly significant to me. Sleep tracking is paramount due to my inconsistent sleep schedule, often caused by collaborating with colleagues across different time zones. Having the ability to track multiple time zones simultaneously is nothing short of amazing. Therefore, having the Apple Watch track my total sleep duration and, more importantly, the quality of each minute I spend resting provides invaluable insights into whether I’m getting sufficient rest.

Monitoring my heart rate and heart rate variability are also vital aspects of my health tracking routine. These metrics can provide insight into my overall cardiovascular health and my body’s response to stress and recovery.

Interestingly, one feature that I find surprisingly useful is the activity reminder. I often become so engrossed in my work that hours fly by without me taking a moment to stand up and move around. While it may seem mundane or obvious, the reminder to get up and take a short walk is incredibly important. It helps break up periods of prolonged sitting, which can contribute to various health problems.

It’s true that the Apple Watch won’t last an eternity like a Rolex or even a $50 Casio; Apple has packed enough features and future-proof the watch to allow you a sufficient length of time, which, in my opinion, yields a pretty good ROI. The need to upgrade or buy a new watch every year, two or three years, isn’t necessary unless you decide you want to change things up. As for me, I wear the Watch Ultra 90% of the time while my Rolex Pepsi gets around 5% wrist time, and yes, I do give my wrist a rest from wearing nothing.

If you enjoy this column, you’re invited to return every Wednesday at 10:20AM PDT for my weekly Wrist Watch Wednesday feature. If there are topics you’d like me to cover or watches you’d like to see reviewed on Yanko Design, you can find me on X: @Nguyen or threads.net: @vincentnguyen.

The post Beyond Telling Time: How the Apple Watch Redefines Modern Wearables first appeared on Yanko Design.