As the Apple Watch approaches its decade milestone, the tech community is abuzz with speculation about the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 3. Expected to be unveiled alongside the iPhone 16 in September 2024, the latest iteration of Apple’s flagship smartwatch has generated significant interest. Here’s a detailed look at what we know about the Apple Watch Ultra 3, including its anticipated release date, pricing, and features.
Design Enhancements
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is anticipated to make a notable departure from its predecessors with a larger display. According to TrendForce’s late 2023 report, the Ultra 3 could feature a 2.12-inch screen, a 10% increase over the current 1.93-inch display of the Ultra 2. While this size boost might enhance visibility, concerns about the device becoming bulkier and heavier have been raised, particularly given the already substantial size of the Ultra 2.
Specifications and Features
In terms of hardware upgrades, expectations are somewhat subdued. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has indicated that the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is likely to see minimal changes, with “almost no” new hardware features. This is disappointing news for those hoping for major improvements.
One notable potential upgrade is the introduction of microLED display technology, which could offer superior brightness and thinness compared to the current OLED screens. However, conflicting reports suggest that the adoption of microLED may be delayed until 2026 due to supply chain issues, leaving its inclusion in the Ultra 3 uncertain.
On the software front, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to come equipped with a new processor, potentially setting the stage for future AI enhancements. The device will run on watchOS 11, which is rumored to introduce several new features, including expanded Smart Stack widgets, a Vitals app, and enhanced workout functionalities.
Design Variations
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 maintained the same titanium color scheme as its predecessor, with no new color options introduced. There is speculation that the Ultra 3 might include a darker ceramic back, a design initially intended for the first-generation Ultra but never released.
Release Date and Pricing
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is projected to launch in September 2024, in tandem with the iPhone 16. This timeline aligns with previous reports suggesting a release within the year, despite earlier indications that the Ultra 3 might be delayed to accommodate additional health management features.
In terms of pricing, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to retain the $799 price point set by the previous generations. Unless significant new features like microLED displays or advanced health sensors are introduced, the price is likely to remain consistent. However, any major upgrades could result in a slight increase.
Conclusion
As Apple prepares to celebrate a decade of innovation with the Apple Watch, the Ultra 3 represents an incremental step rather than a revolutionary leap. While the anticipated larger display and potential new features offer some excitement, significant changes may be limited. As we approach the official announcement, both enthusiasts and skeptics will be watching closely to see if the Ultra 3 meets the high expectations set by its predecessors.
