Leaked Apple Watch Series 10 Prototype Reveals Unique Health Sensor And Potential Future Features

A newly leaked Apple Watch Series 10 prototype has surfaced online, showcasing a unique health sensor design. The images, shared by the account @StellaFudge, depict a device that differs from the officially released Apple Watch Series 10 models, particularly in the structure of its health sensor. While the exact purpose of the modifications is unclear, they suggest that Apple has been experimenting with future health-monitoring features.

The primary difference in the prototype’s health sensor is its smaller array of LEDs compared to the standard Series 10 models. Additionally, the prototype features an extra ring of lights surrounding the sensor, though its specific function remains unknown. This altered design raises speculation about potential improvements or new health-tracking capabilities that Apple may be testing for upcoming models.

Prototype Apple Watch Series 10 with… A very unique health sensor arrangement.

The health sensors got shrunk down a lot and there was an extra light ring around the perimeter. The watch is also running an unreleased build of watchOS11, somewhere between 11.1b5 and 11.1rc. pic.twitter.com/8n06JkQT39

— Stella – Fudge (@StellaFudge) March 31, 2025

According to the source, the prototype was running an internal build of watchOS 11.1 that was never released to the public. This suggests that the prototype was used for internal development and testing, rather than being intended for consumer release. Apple frequently experiments with various hardware and software configurations before finalizing a product, and this device appears to be part of that iterative process.

The health sensor on current Apple Watch models plays a crucial role in monitoring heart rate and, in some regions, blood oxygen levels. However, in the United States, blood oxygen measurement has been disabled due to an ongoing patent dispute. The design changes observed in the prototype could be an indication of Apple’s efforts to refine its health-tracking technology, potentially circumventing patent-related issues or enhancing the accuracy and functionality of existing features.

One of the most anticipated health features Apple has been developing is blood pressure monitoring. Reports suggest that Apple has been working on a system to detect signs of high blood pressure, which could provide users with early warnings about potential cardiovascular issues. While rumors of this feature have been circulating for years, technical challenges have reportedly delayed its implementation. The appearance of a modified health sensor on this prototype could hint at Apple’s continued efforts to perfect this technology. However, it remains uncertain whether this feature will be ready in time for the Apple Watch Series 11.

Ultimately, this leak highlights Apple’s ongoing commitment to expanding the health-monitoring capabilities of the Apple Watch. While it is unknown if this prototype’s design will translate into a future consumer product, it provides insight into Apple’s ongoing research and development in the wearable health technology space.

Filed in Gadgets. Read more about Apple, Leaked and Smartwatch.