Apple has unveiled the Apple Watch Ultra 3, marking its most advanced smartwatch to date. Positioned as the flagship model within the Apple Watch lineup, including the SE 3 and Series 11, the Ultra 3 is engineered for sports, adventure, and everyday use.
A key feature is its expanded display, which utilizes LTPO3 wide-angle OLED technology, reducing screen borders by 24% and enhancing readability. The always-on display boasts a refresh rate of up to one per second, offering live seconds and compatibility with over 20 watch faces, including a new Waypoint face.
Battery life is extended, providing up to 42 hours of daily use, 72 hours in Low Power Mode, and 20 hours of continuous GPS tracking in Low Power Mode. Fast charging enables 12 hours of battery life with a 15-minute charge.
The Ultra 3 introduces built-in, two-way satellite communications, enabling users to text emergency services, message contacts, and share locations without cellular coverage. The Emergency SOS via satellite feature alerts authorities and contacts after a severe fall or car crash if the user is unresponsive. Satellite features are provided free for two years with end-to-end encryption. The watch’s antenna design connects with satellites 800 miles above Earth, traveling at 15,000 mph.
New health features include hypertension notifications to detect chronic high blood pressure and a sleep score that analyzes sleep duration, consistency, and stages. Existing health functions such as irregular rhythm alerts, ECG, blood oxygen monitoring, sleep apnea notifications, and retrospective ovulation estimates are also included.
The Workout app introduces “Workout Buddy,” powered by Apple Intelligence, delivering real-time motivation based on heart rate, pace, distance, and fitness history. The app now supports customizable views, custom workouts, Pacer, Race Route, and integrated music or podcast playback.
Specialized tracking is available for runners, cyclists, swimmers, hikers, divers (via the Oceanic+ app), and golfers. The Ultra 3 integrates with third-party services like Strava, Nike Run Club, Runna, and TrainingPeaks.
The watch runs watchOS 26, featuring Liquid Glass design, Smart Stack hints, Live Translation in Messages, one-handed wrist flick gestures, and intelligent message-based suggestions.
Available in natural and black titanium, the Ultra 3 offers new Trail Loop, Ocean, Alpine, and Hermès bands.
Sustainability measures include 40% recycled content, 100% recycled cobalt in the battery, 100% recycled titanium in the case, and production powered by 100% renewable electricity. Apple is continuing its pursuit of carbon neutrality under Apple 2030.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is available for pre-order now and will ship on September 19, starting at $799 in the U.S.
