Apple Watch 3 specs, release date, rumors: Magnetic straps set to release in 2017?

The current Apple Watch Series 2Apple official website

While the newly released Apple Watch 2 came out with a number of fresh features, speculations claimed that the next Apple Watch 3 is expected to have a lot of new offerings upon its release in 2017.

MacWorld recently noted that the next Apple wearable device will finally feature the "Magnetic Wristband" that was first spotted by AppleInsider earlier this year.

Reports claim that the Cupertino-based tech firm filed a patent for the so-called "Magnetic Wristband" in January. The wristband reportedly features several magnets embedded within the straps to allow the two sides to be connected.

According to the reports, the magnets are supposed to hold the Apple Watch in place when worn. But the band can also have a separate function when removed from the user's wrist since the rumored strap can also provide protection to the smartwatch when not in use.

Other rumors claim that the third-generation Apple Watch will have a 1.65-inch micro-LED display to increase the device's resolution. There are also speculations claiming that Apple will finally feature a circular smartwatch display for Apple Watch 3 just like the Moto 360 and LG G Watch R.

MacWorld also speculates that the upcoming Apple Watch 3 will come out with a new wireless chipset and its own cellular connectivity so that it will no longer rely heavily on the iPhone. This means that the tech firm's next wearable device will finally have an untethered mode to can connect the smartwatch directly to a network. However, Apple must come up with a solution to increase the battery life of the Apple Watch 3 if they are really planning to make it less depended on the iPhone.

The Apple Watch 3 is also expected to feature new case materials to make it smaller and thinner compared to the current models.

Apple has yet to confirm their plans for the Apple Watch 3, but the device is speculated to be unveiled in September 2017 based on the time frame of the previous Apple Watch products.