Apple may be preparing to make one of its most daring design moves yet: an Apple Watch built entirely from glass. According to recent leaks, the company could debut this futuristic look on its smartwatch lineup before applying the concept to the iPhone.
The idea of all-glass Apple devices has floated around for years, but this report suggests the watch might serve as a smaller, more manageable testing ground. By experimenting with the Apple Watch first, Apple can explore the challenges of durability and functionality on a compact scale before extending the design to larger products.
A Radical Break from Current Materials
Traditionally, Apple has relied on robust materials such as zirconia for the watch’s casing. Shifting to a full-glass build would raise questions about strength and everyday wear. Still, the rumored design hints at glass wrapping around most of the device, potentially excluding physical controls like the crown and side button. Such a layout could create new possibilities, including expanded screen space and more immersive interactions around the watch’s edges.
Clues from Patents and Past Speculation
Apple’s patents have hinted at wraparound displays for years, including concepts once rumored for the iPhone. Yet many of those ideas never left the drawing board. For example, the iPhone 8 was expected by some to adopt an all-glass body but only arrived with a glass back.
The latest rumor comes from a source with a mixed track record. While they correctly predicted features like frosted glass on the iPhone 15 and the capture button on the iPhone 16, they’ve also missed the mark in past forecasts. Apple itself has not commented on the possibility.
Innovation or Just a Concept?
As with many leaks, the line between concept and reality is thin. Apple frequently explores bold designs that never become products. Still, if this all-glass Apple Watch does materialize, it could mark a turning point in the company’s design philosophy and serve as a preview of where the iPhone may eventually head.