Price and Availability
The Apple Watch Series 7 was announced on September 14, 2021, and became available for purchase on October 15, 2021. Starting prices were as follows:
- 41mm GPS model: $399 / £369 / AU$599
- 45mm GPS model: $429 / £399 / AU$649
For cellular variants, pricing increased:
- 41mm Cellular model: $499 / £469 / AU$749
- 45mm Cellular model: $529 / £499 / AU$799
Special editions, such as the Apple Watch Nike Edition and Hermès models, were priced significantly higher.
The Series 7 was launched with five aluminum finishes: Midnight, Starlight, Green, Blue, and (PRODUCT)RED. It also introduced new Nike Sport Loop colors and Apple Watch Hermès bands.
Design and Display
- Larger Display: Features a 20% larger screen compared to the Series 6, with slimmer bezels, making the 41mm and 45mm models more visually impactful.
- Improved Durability: IP6X dust resistance and WR50 water resistance offer robust protection, and the hardened glass reduces the risk of scratches or cracks.
- Curved Edge Design: Subtle design tweaks like curved glass edges give the illusion of the display spilling over the sides.
Performance and Software
- Processor: Powered by the S7 chip, it matches the performance of its predecessor, the S6. Navigating the interface is smooth, with quick app launches and reliable responsiveness.
- WatchOS 8: Enhancements like the Portrait Mode watch face, improved Focus modes, and Assistive Touch add functionality, though the update was incremental rather than groundbreaking.
Health and Fitness Features
- Sensors: Includes ECG, SpO2, and heart rate monitoring, alongside VO2 Max tracking. While accurate, the heart rate monitor performs best when positioned higher up the arm.
- Fitness Tracking: Suitable for casual fitness enthusiasts, with accurate GPS and activity monitoring. However, advanced athletes may find the features lacking compared to specialized devices.
- Apple Fitness+: Seamlessly integrates with the watch for guided workouts, offering diverse sessions and real-time metrics displayed during exercises.
Battery Life and Charging
- Battery Life: Officially rated for 18 hours, real-world use often exceeded 24 hours.
- Fast Charging: The new USB-C charger reduces charging time, reaching 50% in 30 minutes and a full charge in just over an hour.
Conclusion
The Apple Watch Series 7 is an excellent upgrade for users of older models like the Series 3 or Series 4, thanks to its larger display, faster charging, and advanced durability. However, the improvements over the Series 6 are minimal, making it less compelling for those with more recent Apple Watch models.
Its integration with Apple’s ecosystem and robust health features ensure it remains one of the most versatile and user-friendly smartwatches on the market. Prices start at $399, making it a competitive option in its category, though advanced athletes may find more tailored features in devices like Garmin’s offerings.
