Apple has officially announced the Apple Watch Ultra 3, introducing several incremental updates while maintaining much of the design and feature set familiar to Ultra model owners. The new model is aimed at users seeking enhanced durability, outdoor-focused features, and powerful health tracking—all delivered in a neutral, understated style.
Apple Watch Ultra 3: What’s New
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 retains the robust titanium build of its predecessors and keeps the large 49mm size, but it brings some practical updates. Notably, the Ultra 3 introduces satellite messaging for emergency communication and 5G connectivity.
There is a new AI-powered Workout Buddy and blood pressure tracking, plus an upgrade to watchOS 26. Battery life is extended to up to 42 hours, and the device features the latest Apple S11 chip for improved efficiency.
Comparison: Ultra 3 vs Ultra 2 vs Ultra 1
| Feature | Ultra 1 | Ultra 2 | Ultra 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2022 | 2023 | 2025 |
| Chipset | S8 | S9 | S11 |
| Display | 49mm LTPO OLED | 49mm LTPO OLED, brighter | Slightly larger, energy-efficient OLED |
| Battery | Up to 36 hours | Up to 36 hours | Up to 42 hours |
| Connectivity | LTE/UMTS, GPS, Wi-Fi | LTE/UMTS, GPS, Wi-Fi | 5G, satellite messaging |
| Health Features | HR, ECG, SpO2, skin temp | All from Ultra 1 + improved GPS | Adds blood pressure tracking, improved AI fitness coach |
| Price (USD) | $799 | $799 | $799+ |
The Ultra 3 brings modest improvements over the Ultra 2, including a new chipset, enhanced battery life, satellite messaging, and blood pressure monitoring. In practical terms, previous Ultra users may find few pressing reasons to upgrade, but new buyers benefit from improved safety and health features.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
| Feature | Apple Watch Ultra 3 | Galaxy Watch Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Rectangular, brighter LTPO OLED | Circular, Super AMOLED, 3000 nits |
| Chip & OS | Apple S11, watchOS 26 | Exynos, Wear OS |
| Battery | Up to 42 hours (590 mAh) | 80+ hours (at lower settings) |
| Health Features | ECG, SpO2, HR, skin temp, blood pressure (notification-based) | ECG, SpO2, HR, comprehensive metrics |
| Connectivity | 5G, satellite messaging | LTE, Wi-Fi |
| Build | Titanium, 10ATM water resistance | Titanium, IP68, 10ATM |
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 and the Galaxy Watch Ultra both offer advanced durability and a suite of health features. Apple provides new satellite messaging for emergencies and a familiar watchOS experience, while Samsung offers longer basic battery life and a different form factor with its bright display.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 continues Apple’s trend of gradual improvement, focusing on improved connectivity and health monitoring for demanding users. While not a dramatic leap from Ultra 2 or 1, the Ultra 3’s enhancements target those who need the latest in safety and outdoor tech, while its main competition comes from Samsung’s Galaxy Watch Ultra with its own health and durability features.
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