One leaker claims Apple’s long-rumored plans for Touch ID on Apple Watch have been shelved in favor of ‘packing in larger batteries’ — and as a Garmin main who’s recently switched, that’s totally fine by me
- Apple has long been rumored to be planning Touch ID on Apple Watches
- These projects have been suspended, according to leaker Instant Digital
- The leaker claims that Apple is focusing more on improving battery life and health sensors.
For some time now, rumors have been circulating that Touch ID, possibly via the digital crown, would appear on the best Apple watches. But if the latest rumors are accurate, don’t expect this to be announced anytime soon at this year’s WWDC or Apple’s events in September.
“Apple’s current strategy still prioritizes using iPhone to unlock other devices through seamless connectivity.”
It makes perfect sense to keep the phone as the central hub bringing all your accessories together, but I can see why a Touch ID feature might be tempting. We often hear about an LTE-enabled Apple Watch’s ability to act as a sort of “mini-phone,” keeping your contacts, messages, and wallet close at hand—pun well-intended—when you leave your house without your phone.
Biometric security is a logical step for LTE models, but it remains a niche use case, especially since the watch already locks with a passcode when removed from your wrist.
However, the leaker claims that Apple is not focusing on this topic at the moment. They write: “Apple’s current focus is on integrating larger batteries and relentlessly refining its advanced health sensors. Incorporating a fingerprint sensor, at least for now, only adds unnecessary costs and directly encroaches on battery space.
Focus on what’s important
This is music to my ears. I’m familiar with Apple Watches, as I review them every year, but I recently switched ecosystems to Apple, and the Apple Watch Ultra 3 went from a review device to my daily driver.
Previously, I would switch between the Garmin Fenix 8 and the Garmin Venu 4, so I’m used to 10 days between charges. As much as I love the Apple Watch Ultra series, I won’t lie: the need to charge it every other day is my biggest annoyance. After the convenience of Garmin’s huge batteries and low power consumption, living with shorter battery life is an adjustment.
It’s great to hear that Apple is considering further beefing up the battery – and it’s good to hear that health sensor accuracy is Apple’s priority right now.
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