The Apple Watch Ultra 3 has been the subject of growing anticipation among tech enthusiasts. After Apple skipped a new Ultra release in 2024, the pressure is on for 2025 to bring a significant upgrade to the high-end smartwatch lineup. Based on reports from reputable analysts and industry sources, the Ultra 3 may introduce larger displays, improved health tracking, enhanced connectivity, and AI-powered fitness tools.
Quick Summary Table
Feature / Detail |
Rumored Information |
|---|---|
Release Date Prediction |
September 2025 (likely alongside iPhone 17 series) |
Starting Price |
From $799 |
Design |
Similar to Ultra 2, possible 2.12-inch display, thinner case, slimmer bezels, possible side camera |
Display |
Potential microLED (or improved LTPO OLED), better viewing angles, possibly brighter than 3000 nits |
Processor |
Apple S10 chip with four-core neural engine |
Key Features |
High blood pressure detection, satellite messaging, 5G connectivity, AI-powered fitness coaching |
Battery |
Larger charging coil, faster charging, potential for longer low-power mode beyond 72 hours |
Operating System |
watchOS 26 |
Official Site |
Why There Was No Apple Watch Ultra 3 in 2024
Apple’s September 2024 “Glowtime” event showcased the Apple Watch Series 10 and iPhone 16 lineup but skipped the Ultra 3. The only Ultra-related update was the introduction of a Jet Black Ultra 2 model.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that the delay was due to Apple focusing on the development of innovative health management features, pushing the Ultra 3 launch to 2025.
Expected Release Date and Pricing
Based on Apple’s product cycles and insider predictions, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to launch in September 2025, likely announced alongside the iPhone 17 series. Pre-orders should open immediately after the launch event, with shipping within one to two weeks.
Pricing is expected to remain at $799, matching the cost of the Ultra and Ultra 2. While competing models like the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra are priced lower at $649, Apple is unlikely to reduce the premium price point.
Design Rumors: Bigger Display and Slimmer Profile
Apple is not expected to drastically change the iconic Ultra design. However, notable tweaks may include:
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Larger Display: From the Ultra 2’s 1.93-inch screen to a rumored 2.12-inch panel, potentially with a resolution bump to 422 x 514 pixels.
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Slimmer Bezels: To fit the larger screen without significantly increasing the case size.
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Thinner Case: Inspired by the Series 10, which is 1mm thinner than its predecessor.
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Onboard Camera: A small side-mounted camera near the Digital Crown, rumored for visual AI analysis rather than photography.
Display Technology: MicroLED or Enhanced LTPO OLED
A major rumor is that the Ultra 3 could debut with microLED technology, offering better brightness and thinner panels than OLED. However, some sources suggest microLED may not arrive until 2026.
More likely, Apple will use an improved LTPO OLED display similar to the Series 10, featuring wider viewing angles for better readability.
Performance and Hardware Upgrades
The Ultra 3 is expected to include the Apple S10 chip with a dedicated four-core neural engine, delivering better machine learning performance for AI-driven features.
Charging speeds may also improve with a larger charging coil on the case back.
New Health and Fitness Features
Health monitoring could see a major leap forward with the addition of high blood pressure detection. This would not give exact readings but would alert users when their blood pressure might be elevated, prompting medical consultation.
Other health upgrades may include:
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AI-backed Workout Buddy for personalized fitness guidance
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Smarter notifications and gesture controls like the new Wrist Flick for dismissing alerts
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A new built-in Notes app on watchOS 26
Connectivity Improvements: 5G and Satellite Messaging
The Ultra 3 may adopt 5G RedCap technology from MediaTek, replacing older Intel modems. While not aimed at ultra-fast data, it would modernize connectivity for wearables.
Satellite messaging via the Globalstar network is also rumored, enabling emergency communication in remote areas without cellular service.
Battery Life Expectations
Battery capacity rumors are scarce, but efficiency gains from the S10 chip and display improvements could extend battery life in low-power mode beyond 72 hours, while maintaining the current 36-hour standard usage rating.
watchOS 26: Software Enhancements
The Ultra 3 will launch with watchOS 26, featuring:
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AI-powered Workout Buddy
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Wrist Flick gesture control
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Integrated Notes app
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Smarter, more contextual notifications
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: When will the Apple Watch Ultra 3 be released?
A: It is expected in September 2025 alongside the iPhone 17 lineup.
Q2: How much will it cost?
A: Starting at $799.
Q3: Will it have a new design?
A: Mostly the same design as previous Ultra models but possibly with a larger screen, thinner case, and smaller bezels.
Q4: Will the Apple Watch Ultra 3 have microLED?
A: Possibly, but more likely it will feature an upgraded LTPO OLED display in 2025, with microLED potentially coming in 2026.
Q5: What new health features are expected?
A: High blood pressure alerts, enhanced AI fitness coaching, and improved sleep tracking.
Q6: Will it support satellite communication?
A: Yes, it is rumored to include satellite messaging for emergencies via Globalstar.
Q7: Where can I find more information?
A: Visit the Apple Watch Official Page for updates.
Conclusion
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is shaping up to be an incremental yet meaningful upgrade, with a focus on health innovation, improved connectivity, and subtle design refinements. While Ultra 2 owners may not feel an urgent need to upgrade, Series 9, Series 10, or first-gen Ultra users may find the new features compelling
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