Apple unveils new Pride Solo Loop band ahead of iPad event

Macworld

Apple on Monday revealed the 2024 Pride Collection, a set of accessory items to promote “the vibrancy and diversity of LGBTQ+ communities.” The main item of the collection is the Apple Watch Pride Edition Braided Solo Loop, a watch band accompanied by a matching watch face and dynamic iPhone and iPad wallpapers.

The multi-colored band features black and brown to represent Black, Hispanic, and Latin communities and those impacted by HIV/AIDS, and pink, light blue, and white for transgender and nonbinary individuals. The band, “evokes the strength and beauty of LGBTQ+ communities with a vibrant, fluorescent design inspired by multiple pride flags.” It also has a lug that’s laser-etched with “PRIDE 2024.” Other than the date, it’s not clear how this band is different from the previous braided loop Pride band released in 2021.

The Apple Watch Pride Edition Braided Solo Loop goes on sale on May 22 in the U.S. and Canada for US$99 (the Canadian price was not available). It will be available in other regions on May 23. It is compatible with the Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch Series 4 or later.

The watch face and wallpapers feature glowing, multi-colored letters and numbers that “represent the everlasting impact of LGBTQ+ activism and its role in illuminating the path to greater equality for future generations.” The watch face can be obtained through the Watch app or the Apple Store app on the iPhone or through Apple’s website. The wallpapers will be available with watchOS 10.5, iOS 17.5, and iPadOS 17.5, which are currently in beta and expected to be released within the next week following the May 7 “Let Loose” event.

The Pride collection is one way Apple shows support of LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations such as ILGA World, the Human Rights Campaign, Encircle, Equality North Carolina, Equality Texas, GLSEN, Equality Federation, the National Center for Transgender Equality, PFLAG, SMYAL, and The Trevor Project.

Past editions of the Pride watch band are still available at Apple’s online store. Read our Best Apple Watch guide for the latest recommendations, tips, and deals.

Accessories, Mobile Phone Accessories