The Apple Watch Ultra 3 will introduce 5G RedCap, a low-power version of 5G designed for wearables, marking a leap from the 4G LTE used in current Apple Watch models. As reported by 9to5Mac, this upgrade, powered by a MediaTek modem, offers faster data speeds and lower latency while conserving battery life. For users, this means smoother experiences when sending messages, navigating with Maps, or querying Siri without an iPhone nearby. Whether running, hiking, or working out, the Ultra 3’s 5G connectivity will make iPhone-free tasks—like streaming music or replying to texts—feel seamless and reliable, reducing the clunky performance reported with previous models.
Satellite Messaging for Off-Grid Adventures
Satellite connectivity, a feature exclusive to iPhones since the iPhone 14, is coming to the Apple Watch Ultra 3, enabling text messaging in areas without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. Initially limited to emergency SOS, satellite texting expanded in iOS 18 to include messages to any contact, and the Ultra 3 will adopt this capability. This is a game-changer for hikers, divers, and explorers—the Ultra’s target audience—who venture into remote areas. As MacRumors notes, satellite messaging positions the Ultra 3 to compete with rugged wearables like Garmin, which offer similar off-grid features. Users can send an SOS or check in with friends from the backcountry, enhancing safety and connectivity without needing an iPhone. Apple’s inclusion of two years of free satellite connectivity, as with iPhones, adds further value.
Why Less iPhone Matters
The push to reduce iPhone dependency aligns with Apple’s vision for the Apple Watch Ultra as a wellness and adventure companion. Current models already support cellular connectivity, but tasks like messaging or navigation often feel sluggish without an iPhone, as 9to5Mac highlights. The Ultra 3’s 5G and satellite features address these pain points, making it easier to leave the iPhone at home during runs, workouts, or outdoor trips. For everyday users, faster connectivity could streamline quick tasks—checking notifications or responding to texts—without reaching for a phone. For adventurers, the ability to stay connected off-grid adds a layer of security and convenience, reinforcing the Ultra’s rugged appeal.
What’s Next for the Ultra 3
Beyond connectivity, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to retain its titanium enclosure, 36-hour battery life, and dive-ready design, with possible upgrades like a brighter LTPO3 OLED display, as seen in the Apple Watch Series 10. Rumors also suggest watchOS 12 may introduce visionOS-inspired UI elements and new AI features, potentially enhancing Siri’s capabilities on the Ultra 3. However, advanced health features like blood pressure monitoring may be delayed due to testing challenges, according to MacRumors. Apple’s focus on connectivity over hardware overhauls suggests a practical evolution, prioritizing user experience in real-world scenarios.
Competitive Edge and Market Impact
The Ultra 3’s upgrades position it to challenge competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Watch Ultra and Garmin’s satellite-equipped gear. While the Apple Watch’s market share dipped 19% in 2024 due to a lack of Ultra 3 and minimal Series 10 upgrades, per Counterpoint Research, these connectivity enhancements could reverse the trend. Priced around $799, consistent with previous Ultra models, the Ultra 3’s value lies in its ability to function independently, appealing to users who prioritize freedom from their iPhone. As TechRadar notes, the combination of 5G and satellite messaging could make the Ultra 3 a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts.
Why It Matters
The Apple Watch Ultra 3’s focus on reducing iPhone dependency reflects a broader trend toward standalone wearables. By equipping the Ultra 3 with 5G RedCap and satellite messaging, Apple empowers users to stay connected, safe, and productive without their iPhone, whether in the city or the wilderness. These upgrades enhance the Ultra’s appeal as a premium smartwatch, offering practical benefits for daily tasks and off-grid adventures. As Apple prepares for its biggest launch season in years, the Ultra 3 is poised to redefine what a smartwatch can do.
