Apple Watch Series 10: New bands introduced with backward compatibility

With the introduction of the Apple Watch Series 10 at the “It’s Glowtime” event, Apple also unveiled new Apple Watch bands to offer an enhanced experience.

However, counter to some rumours, Apple promised backward compatibility with old Apple Watch bands.

New Apple Watch bands

Apple Watch Series 10 has sported a new slimmer design and polished finish. There’s a new Jet Black variant made of polished aluminium, but the more expensive versions are now boasted with polished titanium instead of stainless steel.

To relate the new features, Apple has unveiled new watch bands. The Milanese Loop and Link Bracelet bands have been upgraded to perfectly colour-match the new titanium cases of Apple Watch Series 10.

Read more: Apple watchOS update integrates AI-powered features, including translation

Moreover, the Cupertino-based tech giant has announced a new collection of bands developed in partnership with Hermès – including Grand H, the brand’s first metal band for the Apple Watch. The Nike Sport bands have also been upgraded with new colours.

Watch band compatibility

Some rumours had indicated that Apple would replace the connector on the Series 10 watch bands. Although the Apple Watch Series 10 is available in new 42mm and 46mm sizes, Apple said that the old watch bands will work on the new models, and vice versa.

Older Apple Watch bands, including 41mm and 45mm sizes, will be compatible with the new 42mm and 46mm cases, and all new 42mm and 46mm bands will be compatible with older Apple Watch models.

Meanwhile, Apple has revealed a new band size that better fits the new 42mm Apple Watch Series 10. Currently, when you purchase a new Apple Watch band, you’ll able to see the following sizes:

1. 40mm: Compatible with 38mm, 40mm, and 41mm (also fits the new 42mm case)
2. 42mm: Designed for the new 42mm case, but also works with 38mm, 40mm, and 41mm cases
3. 46mm: Universal size for 44mm, 45mm, 46mm, and 49mm cases (also works with the old 42mm Series 3 size)
4. 49mm: Designed specifically for Apple Watch Ultra

Pre-orders for the new Apple Watch bands started today. Apple says they’ll be shipped from September 20. Moreover, you can find Apple Watch bands on Amazon.