Apple appears to be testing a new Modular-style watch face for watchOS 27, and the change could matter most to people who like the Apple Watch Ultra layout but do not want the dense information-heavy design. The reported face looks like a cleaner version of Modular Ultra, with a larger clock area and fewer on-screen complications.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported in his Power On newsletter that Apple is testing multiple new watch faces for watchOS 27, which is internally code-named “Orchid.” One of those faces reportedly takes inspiration from Modular Ultra, but removes some of the busier parts of that design.
“One in particular stands out: a simplified take on the Modular Ultra design. It has the same large clock as the Ultra face but removes the option for a big complication in the center, the row of three smaller complications above the time and information placed around the bezel.”
watchOS 27 Features
The reported watch face keeps the large clock style from Modular Ultra, but changes how information appears around it. Instead of filling the screen with several data points, Apple is reportedly testing a layout in which the clock occupies the top two-thirds of the display, while three smaller complications sit below it.
That makes the face sound more readable on regular Apple Watch models, especially for users who want quick access to weather, activity, calendar, battery, or workout data without turning the watch face into a dashboard. Modular Ultra works well on the Apple Watch Ultra because the larger display gives Apple more space to show information around the bezel, but that same idea can feel crowded on smaller Series models.
Apple has used watch faces to separate the Ultra lineup from the rest of the Apple Watch family. Wayfinder, Modular Ultra, and Waypoint helped give the Ultra models a more technical and outdoor-focused identity. A simpler Modular-style face for watchOS 27 would bring part of that look to standard Apple Watch users without copying the full Ultra experience.
The move also fits how many people actually use their Apple Watch. Most users do not need every edge of the screen filled with data throughout the day. They need a clear time display, a few useful shortcuts, and a layout that does not feel cramped at a glance.
Apple is also expected to prepare its annual Pride watch face update for watchOS 26.5, with this year’s version reportedly called Pride Luminance. Still, the more interesting change for daily use appears to be coming later with watchOS 27, where Apple seems focused on making one of its most practical watch face styles easier to use across more models.
