Apple is working on screenless fitness band like a Whoop

Apple is developing and testing prototypes of a screenless, wrist-worn fitness tracker similar to devices from Google's Fitbit and Whoop. The device could feature a thin fabric band with a sensor-equipped computing module designed to track health and fitness data, but without a display.Representative image created using AIApple is reportedly developing a screenless health and fitness tracker similar to devices such as Whoop and Google’s Fitbit. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the Apple Watch maker is now looking to expand its health and fitness portfolio with a simpler wearable focused on tracking health and fitness without a display. The company has reportedly been exploring the category for several months and has built prototypes, although it has not yet decided whether the product will be released.If things go all planned, Apple’s first fitness brand could debut before 2028. The report says the project has the backing of senior executives, including Apple executive chairman Tim Cook and services chief Eddy Cue, who now leads the company’s health efforts.What will Apple’s first screenless fitness band look like?The prototypes reportedly feature a thin fabric band with a sensor-equipped computing module that sits on the wrist. Unlike the Apple Watch, the device would not have a display. Instead, it would focus on health and fitness tracking. Gurman notes that the project is still in the early stages, and Apple has not yet decided whether to launch it. However the year 2028, is anticipated to be the launch year.But why a fitness band? Because screen less health and fitness wearables are becoming more popular. Companies such as Google, Whoop and Oura have built large user bases with devices that focus mainly on health tracking rather than apps and notifications. Garmin also offers fitness trackers without displays. Apple now seems to be looking to join the trend, while bringing some of the advanced health and fitness features from its smartwatch lineup to a simpler, screenless wearable. The latest Apple Watch models already offer more advanced heart-rate tracking, readiness-style measurements and estimates of biological age based on health data. Apple is also testing a redesigned Health app in iOS 27.2, with a simpler interface and clearer guidance. According to the report, Eddy Cue, Apple's Senior Vice President of Services and Health is now pushing the health team to make its products easier to use and more focused on health and fitness tracking.Meanwhile, Apple is also working on other wearable products, including smart glasses and AirPods with cameras, both targeted for 2027. Apple has also worked on an AI pendant with a camera, although that project has been postponed. Earlier this month, Apple also refreshed its Watch line with a feature that can record audio during the day and use AI to generate summaries of conversations and activities.Apple is also reportedly preparing a broader redesign of its smartwatch line-up as early as late 2027.- EndsPublished By: Divya BhatiPublished On: Sep 23, 2026 09:08 IST