Should You Buy the Apple Watch Ultra 3?
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 stands out as Apple's most premium watch, retailing from $799. Tailored for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers superior durability and a rich array of features compared to standard models.
Launched in September 2025, it's an opportune time to purchase, with no anticipated updates until at least September 2026. Historical trends show that Apple hasn’t consistently refreshed the Ultra model annually, leaving uncertainty for future releases.
This third-generation model boasts enhancements over its predecessor, including a larger, brighter display, reduced bezels, and added connectivity options like 5G and satellite support. For users seeking a more compact option or fewer features, the Apple Watch Series 11 remains a viable alternative.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3
Positioned against high-end fitness watches from brands like Garmin, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is crafted for sports enthusiasts who desire extended battery life, improved connectivity, and specialized performance. It remains the largest Apple Watch yet at 49mm, designed for endurance, exploration, and adventure.
Equipped with the S10 chip, the Ultra 3 offers no performance leap from the S9 but introduces new gesture capabilities like the Wrist Flick for dismissing notifications and Double Tap for one-handed interactions.
The design mirrors previous Ultra models, featuring a rugged aerospace-grade titanium body, a flat sapphire crystal face, and a larger Digital Crown with enhanced grip. The customizable Action button, highlighted in international orange, allows users to engage various functionalities like workouts or compass waypoints.
Despite no design overhaul, the Ultra 3 enhances the display with thinner bezels for a total area of 1,245 sq mm, utilizing LTPO3 technology for brightness up to 3,000 nits, adjustable for various lighting conditions.
Three microphones optimize audio quality, complemented by a powerful 86-decibel siren for emergencies. Its larger battery extends operational life to 42 hours on a single charge, with a Low Power Mode that can stretch usage to 72 hours, ideal for multi-day adventures.
With dual-frequency GPS and enhanced environmental resilience, the watch withstands extreme temperatures and supports activities like kitesurfing and scuba diving, certified to WR100 standards.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3's exclusive watch face, the Wayfinder, integrates a compass and up to eight complications, adapting automatically for better visibility at night. The device is also fully equipped with features found in the Apple Watch Series 11, including comprehensive health monitoring capabilities.
Health features include Hypertension Notifications, Blood Oxygen monitoring, and Sleep Apnea Detection. With cellular connectivity and a new 5G chip, it allows for satellite communication when traditional networks are unavailable.
Emergency features such as Crash Detection and Fall Detection ensure user safety, alerting emergency services when needed. The watch's design also accommodates for various sport bands tailored for different activities.
How to Buy
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 launched on September 19, 2025, and is available for order through Apple and various retailers.
Design
Retaining its predecessors' rugged design, the Ultra 3 features a titanium case available in Natural and Black Titanium finishes. Its larger size and robust build cater to adventurers, while the customizable Action button enhances user interaction.
Colors and Materials
The aerospace-grade titanium construction ensures durability and corrosion resistance, crucial for water sports. The 3D printed case utilizes advanced techniques to minimize material waste.
Exclusive Watch Faces
The Wayfinder face, exclusive to the Ultra, serves as a customizable display for navigating with a compass, while the Modular Ultra offers extensive data at a glance.
Durability
The Ultra 3 is built to endure extreme conditions, certified to military standards (MIL-STD-810H) for various environmental challenges.
Water Resistance
Designed for extreme water activities, it is water-resistant up to 100 meters, supporting diving and other water sports not recommended for standard models.
Always-On Display
The updated LTPO3 display allows for an always-on second hand and maintains brightness at various angles, enhancing usability.
S10 Chip
While the S10 chip offers no performance boost over the S9, it supports new gesture controls, including Double Tap and Wrist Flick.
Health Features
The Ultra 3 includes comprehensive health monitoring tools, including a heart rate sensor and capabilities to detect signs of hypertension and sleep apnea.
Hypertension Alerts
It analyzes heart rate data over 30 days to identify potential hypertension issues.
Blood Oxygen
Blood oxygen readings are performed through the wrist, with data available via the paired iPhone due to regional restrictions.
Sleep Apnea Detection
The watch can indicate potential sleep apnea based on movement patterns during sleep.
ECG
Users can perform ECGs to monitor heart rhythm, providing essential health insights.
Sleep Tracking
Sleep patterns are monitored, allowing users to understand their sleep stages.
Fall Detection
Designed to alert emergency services automatically after a fall.
Crash Detection
It can detect severe car crashes and notify authorities if the user is unresponsive.
Temperature Sensing
Temperature sensors assist in monitoring overall health and fertility planning.
Activity Features
Tracking daily movement and workouts, the Ultra 3 provides comprehensive activity insights through its Activity app.
Depth App
The Depth app offers real-time depth measurements and water temperature.
Tides App
The Tides app provides information on tidal patterns and trends.
Compass
Utilizing GPS, the compass can mark waypoints and return paths.
Battery Life
With a robust battery life of up to 42 hours, it supports efficient charging options.
Microphone and Speakers
With three microphones, it enhances call quality in varying conditions.
Connectivity
With 5G and satellite connectivity, users can stay connected in remote areas.
Satellite Communications
Emergency SOS and messaging features are available via satellite.
W3 and UWB
The integrated W3 chip enhances wireless connectivity and precision tracking capabilities.
Siren
The emergency siren can be heard from significant distances, adding an extra layer of safety.
GPS
Dual-frequency GPS ensures accurate tracking and navigation.
Depth Gauge and Seal Check
Apple offers testing services to ensure the watch's functionality for diving.
Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch SE 3
The Ultra 3 is sold alongside the Series 11 and SE 3, with varied features and pricing.
What's Next for the Apple Watch Ultra
Future models may see incremental updates, with innovative features like noninvasive glucose monitoring on the horizon.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 Changelog
- April 2 - Updated Buyer's Guide information and next-gen Apple Watch rumors.
- November 17 - Added a rumor about next-generation Apple Watch Ultra.
- September 17 - Updated for the Apple Watch Ultra 3.
Source: MacRumors News