Apple is preparing to launch the Apple Watch Ultra 3 at its ‘Awe Dropping’ event on September 9. Now that there are only a few weeks until the launch, there are high expectations for the new Apple smartwatch that is sure to be the most sophisticated. The Ultra brand has not received any significant update since 2022, and the refresh of the year did not include any new colours. This year though, Apple is likely to introduce meaningful hardware and feature improvements.
The Ultra 3 is already coming to be the most powerful Apple Watch in history, with a brighter, more efficient display, satellite connectivity and, potentially, blood pressure monitoring. When Apple unveils the new flagship wearable, there is much to be excited by for adventure seekers as well as health-conscious users.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 design and display
Apple Watch Ultra 3 is therefore likely to have the same rugged design, although a slight display alteration is anticipated. There is code in the iOS 26 beta indicating a resolution bump to 422 x 514 (from 410 x 502 in the Ultra 2). The case size may also not change, so the company will probably reduce bezels to attain the largest watch display ever. The Ultra 3 may follow the LTPO3 OLED display that was launched on the Apple Watch Series 10. This offers sharper viewing angles, 40 per cent higher brightness, and ultra-low 1-nit minimum brightness to provide a better always-on display.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 performance and chipset
The new model may include the S11 chip, with little improvement on performance. Similar to the S9 and S10, the processor itself is the same. Rather, the S11 is meant to be smaller, and it might allow more room to fit a bigger battery or other components.
Satellite connectivity
Among the largest additions may be satellite connectivity. Apple Watch Ultra 3 can enable users to get Emergency SOS even without Wi-Fi or cell connections. Like the iPhone, it, too, could support constrained text messaging over satellite, a game-changer to adventurers in the deepest wilderness.
Apple has been working on blood pressure tracking, and this may be released this year. The watch will not give detailed readings but could follow the trends and notify users about potential hypertension. Early detection would assist the wearers to consult medical advice before conditions deteriorate.
The Ultra 3 is set to add 5G RedCap technology for the first time. This is the lighter variant of 5G that is developed to serve wearables, and it is quicker than LTE and also efficient.
Apple may also carry the new charging system of the Series 10 to the Ultra 3. The watch was re-engineered with a new charging coil and metal rear casing, making it able to charge significantly quicker and reaching 80 per cent in half an hour.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 launch timeline
Apple Watch Ultra 3 will be launched on September 9 at 10 a.m. PT; pre-orders are likely to be open on September 12, and its release will take place on September 19.