Hey there! So, Apple just dropped the Apple Watch Series 9, tag-teaming it with the iPhone 15.

It's not total news, but let's dive in.. But hold on a sec, because the real buzz is about what's coming next: the 2024 Apple Watch X.

You see, even though the Apple Watch officially hit the scene in 2015, it was announced in 2014.

So, the Apple Watch X will probably coincide with Apple's 10th anniversary, even if it technically became available a year later.

Now, should you snag the Series 9 or hang tight for the Watch X? This is the million dollar question.

We're not quite ready for a full-on Series 9 vs Watch X showdown, but we can chat about whether it's worth waiting and what the key differences might be.

Okay, let's break it down.

The Series 9 brings a new S9 SoC with a slick four-core neural engine for handling Siri commands right on the watch, even without a data connection.

Sweet, right? Well, for some commands needing external info, you'll still need that connection.

Plus, there's a nifty new gesture command for app control – just tap your index finger with your thumb twice on your watch hand.

And, hold on to your hats, there's an ultra-wideband U2 chip that can ping your iPhone 15 and help you find your way within 20 feet.

But, here's the kicker. Most other changes are software upgrades in watchOS 10, which will probably trickle down to older Apple Watches and keep evolving in the Watch X next year.

Now, the Series 9 is like a small upgrade sandwiched between two slices of bread, but the Watch X?

It's looking like a hearty, ambitious sub.

Rumor has it Apple's saving the big smartwatch innovations for next year.

We've got a taste of the dish: new, more efficient ways for watch bands to attach, possibly using magnets that don't bulk up the case.

They could also offer a microLED display, which means better energy efficiency, display quality and durability.

Think of it like individual pixels at a party – if one leaves, it won't crash the whole screen.

And wait, there's more! Apple could be working on adding blood pressure monitoring to the mix.

Surely they have more secrets up their sleeves.

So, should you hold off for the Watch X? Well, it's not something we usually recommend, especially with a fresh Series 9 in town.

But this is one of those exceptions, especially if you're dead-set on an Apple Watch.

The Series 9 doesn't bring a ton of new stuff, and there's a whole year to go.

The fact that we already know this much hints at even juicier features on the horizon for the big anniversary bash.

Looking for alternatives to the Apple Watch? You've got some options like the Garmin Venu 2, Withings ScanWatch, Fitbit Sense 2, and Fitbit Versa 4.

They're decent, but here's the deal: they won't match the Apple Watch's performance and features on iOS.

Apple fine-tuned it for their playground.

Now, what if you're still rocking an older Apple Watch, like the trusty Series 6?

It's served you well, but it might be showing its age.

The Series 9 could be the upgrade you're craving, but here's the catch – jump in now, and you might miss out on the bigger, juicier upgrades coming next year.

Feeling a bit adventurous and don't mind a slight dent in your wallet?

Consider snagging the Series 9 now and flipping it next year on platforms like Swappa or eBay.

It's like trading up for the latest gadget. Just remember, it takes some effort – finding a buyer or keeping an eye out for trade-in deals from carriers.

So, in a nutshell, should you grab the Series 9 or wait for the Watch X?

It's your call, buddy, but it all boils down to how hungry you are for the latest tech goodness.