Apple Watch Design is Changing: Farewell to Square Design

Why is the Design Revolution of Apple Watch Important?

Apple is preparing to make a fundamental change in smart watch design. The abandonment of the square design is not just an aesthetic choice; it is a step that also affects user experience and technological innovations. The new round form will reshape Apple's functional aesthetic understanding as well as offer a wider screen area. This change could become a competitive element for all brands in the industry, not just a product improvement.

As technology evolves, so do user expectations. Apple aims to modernize its design to respond to users' demands, offering a more attractive appearance. This has the potential to positively impact future sales figures for the Apple Watch. The increase in competition in the smart watch market indicates a period where brands are offering innovative designs and functionalities. Apple's move may trigger similar steps in design and functionality from other brands in the industry. This situation will provide users with more options and features.

In particular, it is expected that Apple will enrich the user experience even further with this design change. The round screen design will have the capacity to present more information and allow users to follow notifications more comfortably. On the other hand, providing a broader range of personalization options for users could strengthen the brand's position in the market. Moreover, innovations are expected not only in design but also in software. Apple could offer new opportunities to third-party developers who create applications tailored to users' needs. This process could create an ecosystem that strengthens both Apple and developers' creativity.

Key Figures and Comparisons

Designs	Square Screen (2025)	Round Screen (2026 and beyond)
Screen Area	30 mm²	35 mm²
Application Usability	More difficult	Easier
Customization Options	Limited	Expanded
Apple Watch Series 8	Square	27
Apple Watch Series 9 (Estimated)	Round	35
Other Smart Watches	Various	38

The round design of the 2026 model could increase competition with other smart watches in the industry. While the current square design holds a market share of 27%, the new round model is expected to reach a market share of 35%. This change could create more interest, especially among younger users. Additionally, increasing users' attachment to their smart watches may reinforce Apple's success with this new design. Research shows that users are more willing to transition to new designs. In this context, Apple's marketing strategies and launch processes are of great importance.

On the other hand, the health and fitness features that Apple will provide with this new design may attract users' attention. Especially the increase in health tracking applications could enable users to utilize their smart watches more effectively. In this way, Apple aims to secure a solid place for itself in both health and technology fields. For instance, new sensors and software will allow users to track their heart rate, sleep patterns, and physical activities in more detail. Such features can encourage users to adopt healthier lifestyles. Additionally, it is expected that health professionals in the sector will be able to better guide users by utilizing these new features.

Local Context and Historical Perspective

Since its launch in 2015, the Apple Watch has made a significant impact in the smart watch market. Although the square design was initially liked by users, the limitations of this design became apparent over time. Technology consumers in Turkey seek both aesthetics and functionality. The round design of the Apple Watch may also influence the aesthetic perception of Turkish users. Particularly in Turkey, the younger generation is leaning towards more innovative and modern designs. This change could strengthen Apple's position in the Turkish market.

Throughout its historical process, Apple has continuously updated its designs by paying attention to user feedback. The transition to a circular screen design is regarded as an extension of Apple's innovative approach. This change has the potential to generate more interest, especially among younger users. With these radical design changes, Apple aims to consolidate its position in the industry by blending technological innovations and user expectations. In Turkey, most smart watch users prefer products that offer both aesthetics and functionality. In this context, Apple’s new design is seen not only as an aesthetic change but also as an approach that responds to users' needs.

Users are looking for innovations in the Apple Watch, which they see not only as a watch but also as a symbol of a lifestyle. At this point, Apple's market research and user surveys will guide the design process. Furthermore, events and campaigns that Apple will organize to achieve more interaction in the local market can increase users' loyalty to the brand. Such events will allow users to experience the products while also reinforcing Apple's impact in the Turkish market. Additionally, organizing special campaigns for the local market may attract the interest of Turkish users and further strengthen the brand's position in the market. These events will enable users to experience the new design while also establishing a stronger bond between the brand and users.

Impacted Sectors and Individual Precautions

This design change of the Apple Watch may affect not only tech enthusiasts but also the fashion and health sectors. Fashion designers may find opportunities to develop accessories compatible with the new round designs. The health sector may also benefit positively from this change as users tend to seek more health applications and monitoring features. Especially health applications and wearable technologies may attract more users with this design change. Apple can encourage users to utilize such applications more frequently by making health tracking applications more user-friendly.

Users may need to take some precautions to embrace the changes brought by the new design. First, they should check whether their existing applications are compatible with the new design. Additionally, it is important for them to explore new watch faces and design options to find those that suit their personal style. Users should follow Apple’s promotional events and announcements to better understand the potential offered by the new design. Apple may provide educational materials and guidance services to help users have a better experience with the new design. These services can assist users in making the most of their smart watches. Finally, sharing experiences on social media platforms can also significantly contribute to Apple's future product development processes. Furthermore, gathering users' feedback can guide future design and feature developments. Such feedback can strengthen Apple's user-centric approach.