Apple Unveils Third-Generation Ultra Watch with Enhanced Features
The latest iteration of Apple’s high-performance smartwatch arrives with a larger display, improved battery life, and satellite connectivity for remote locations.
The Ultra 3 positions itself as a versatile smartwatch, combining adventure-ready capabilities with full iPhone integration. Starting at £749 (€899/$799/A$1,399), it comes in slightly cheaper than last year’s model, sitting above the £369 Series 11 and £219 Watch SE 3.
At first glance, the Ultra 3 retains a near-identical design to its predecessor, available in natural or black titanium. The casing remains the same size, but refined bezels allow for a marginally larger screen—currently the biggest on any Apple Watch.
The display now offers improved visibility at an angle, making it easier to read with a quick glance. It also shows ticking seconds when inactive, mirroring the behavior of the Series 10 and 11. Protected by ultra-durable sapphire glass, the screen ranks among the best available on smartwatches.
Powered by the same S10 chip as the Series 11, the Ultra 3 includes touchless gesture controls. Users can double-tap their thumb and index finger to interact with the watch or flick their wrist to dismiss notifications—features that enhance usability in active scenarios.
Battery life sees a modest upgrade, now lasting approximately three days with typical use, including overnight sleep tracking. Charging is required roughly every third night, surpassing Apple’s other models but still trailing behind competitors specializing in outdoor sports. A full charge takes about two hours, reaching 50% in just half an hour with the included USB-C magnetic charger.
Connectivity Enhancements
The Ultra 3 supports 5G, provided the user has a compatible phone plan, and delivers stronger cellular performance in areas with weaker 4G signals. Apple has also integrated its satellite emergency messaging feature—previously available on iPhones—into the watch. This allows users to send emergency texts via satellite when outside cellular range. Satellite functionality also supports Find My tracking and limited messaging to contacts, though the latter is restricted to the U.S., Canada, and Mexico and requires a compatible data plan.
Running the same watchOS 26 as the Series 11, the Ultra 3 introduces a refreshed interface and new watch faces. Among them is the Waypoint face, featuring a live compass that highlights nearby points of interest. It joins other Ultra-exclusive faces like Wayfinder and Modular Ultra, all designed to provide detailed real-time information.
Key Specifications
- Case size: 49 x 44mm
- Thickness: 12mm
- Weight: 61.8g
- Processor: S10
- Storage: 64GB
- OS: watchOS 26
- Water resistance: 100m (10ATM)
- Sensors: Heart rate, ECG, blood oxygen, temperature, depth, dual-band GPS
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