Apple Testing New Modular Watch Face for watchOS 27

Apple Brings Ultra-Style Watch Face to Standard Models

Mark Gurman of Bloomberg reveals that Apple is actively testing a brand-new modular watch face for watchOS 27, codenamed 'Orchid.' The move aims to bring the premium Modular Ultra aesthetic — previously exclusive to Apple Watch Ultra — down to the standard Apple Watch lineup.

The report, published in Gurman's latest Power On newsletter, also hints at broader updates coming to iOS 27 and new 'rainbow' themed products arriving later this month.

What the New Watch Face Looks Like

Apple's redesigned face takes the signature large digital clock from the Modular Ultra watch face but strips away much of its information density. Specifically, the new design removes the row of small complications above the time display and eliminates the bezel-ring data readouts that define the Ultra version.

The result is a cleaner, more focused layout:

• Large digital clock occupies roughly the top two-thirds of the display
• 3 small complication icons sit in a single row at the bottom
• No bezel-ring information or top-row widgets clutter the screen
• Center complication zone is simplified compared to the Ultra original

This streamlined approach makes the face viable on smaller displays found in the standard Apple Watch Series, where the Ultra's dense layout would feel cramped.

A Familiar Strategy From Apple

Apple has a long history of using exclusive watch faces to drive hardware sales. The Wayfinder, Modular Ultra, and Waypoint faces all launched as key selling points for the Apple Watch Ultra line. Other faces like Exactograph were designed to work across a broader range of models.

By adapting the Modular Ultra design for standard watches, Apple appears to be democratizing one of its most popular Ultra features. This could reduce one incentive to upgrade to the Ultra — or it could serve as a teaser that drives users toward the full-featured version.

watchOS 27 'Orchid' in Development

The codename 'Orchid' for watchOS 27 follows Apple's tradition of internal project names for major OS releases. Gurman notes that multiple new watch face designs are currently in testing, though the simplified Modular Ultra variant stands out as the most notable.

Apple typically unveils its next-generation software at WWDC, which is expected in June 2025. Key details to watch for include:

• Whether the new face ships with watchOS 27 or debuts alongside new hardware
• How many additional watch faces Apple introduces this cycle
• Whether any faces leverage new AI or health-related complications
• Potential tie-ins with rumored Apple Watch SE or Series 11 hardware

Rainbow Products Expected This Month

Gurman also mentions that Apple's 2026 'rainbow' product lineup is set to launch this month. Apple has released rainbow-themed bands and accessories annually to coincide with Pride Month celebrations, and this year's collection appears to follow suit.

No specific product details were shared, but past releases have included special edition Sport Bands, Nike bands, and matching watch faces featuring rainbow color gradients.

What This Means for Apple Watch Buyers

The broader takeaway is clear: Apple is working to make its standard Apple Watch feel more premium without cannibalizing Ultra sales. A simplified Modular Ultra face gives everyday users a taste of the Ultra experience while preserving the full-featured version as an upsell.

Expect Apple to formally announce watchOS 27 and its new watch faces at WWDC 2025, with a public release likely alongside new Apple Watch hardware in September.