Apple could finally be making a ‘rugged’ version of the Apple Watch aimed at runners and outdoorsy types

• Apple could launch a new, more rugged version of the Apple Watch as soon as this year.
• The new design would be aimed at runners and outdoor sports enthusiasts, Bloomberg reports.
• Last year, Apple introduced the less expensive Watch SE intended for price-conscious consumers.
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Apple is reportedly considering another version of its wildly popular smartwatch, the Apple Watch.

A more rugged, sportswear-centric version of the device is could launch as soon as later this year or early next, according to a new Bloomberg report.

Though Apple’s wearable is already popular with runners and outdoor sports enthusiasts, the new version would reportedly feature a tougher case than existing versions. The new Apple Watch would be its own model, the report said, separate from the existing Apple Watch and Apple Watch SE models.

Since introducing the Apple Watch in 2015, Apple has repeatedly updated the device with more powerful internals and a variety of new software.

Last year, Apple introduced the first ever SE model of its Watches – a less expensive base model intended for price-conscious consumers.

Apple is said to have considered a ruggedized version of the Apple Watch in the past, but apparently paused or scrapped those plans. A variety of electronics makers sell outdoor sports-focused smartwatches, including Apple’s main rival Samsung and several companies that tend not to compete directly with Apple, such as Garmin.

It’s unclear when Apple intends to announce a new version of the Apple Watch, if it does indeed come to fruition; the company last revealed new Apple Watch models in September 2020 during its “Time Flies” event.

Apple representatives didn’t respond to a request for comment as of publishing.

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