For those venturing beyond the reach of cell towers, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 introduces satellite connectivity, a first for Apple’s smartwatch lineup. This feature allows users to send and receive text messages in areas without Wi-Fi or cellular coverage, mirroring the satellite capabilities found in recent iPhone models. Outdoor enthusiasts, such as hikers and climbers, will find this invaluable for staying connected in remote locations. Unlike competitors like Garmin, which have long offered satellite-enabled wearables, Apple’s implementation promises seamless integration with its ecosystem, ensuring intuitive emergency communication and messaging.
A Larger, Brighter Display
The Ultra 3 boasts a slightly larger display, achieved by slimming down the bezels rather than increasing the watch’s physical size. Imagery uncovered in recent software betas reveals a new screen resolution of 422 by 514 pixels, up from the Ultra 2’s 410 by 502. This subtle expansion maximizes viewable space, making notifications, maps, and fitness metrics easier to read at a glance. The watch is also expected to feature a wide-angle OLED panel, offering brighter visuals and a higher refresh rate for smoother interactions, especially in always-on mode. These enhancements make the Ultra 3 a standout for users who need clarity in demanding environments.
5G RedCap for Faster Connectivity
Moving beyond LTE, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is slated to support 5G RedCap, a streamlined version of 5G tailored for wearables. This technology, likely powered by a MediaTek modem chip, delivers faster data speeds than LTE while maintaining efficiency suitable for a compact device. For users, this means quicker syncing of health data, faster app updates, and more reliable connections during activities like running or cycling in urban areas. While not matching the full bandwidth of standard 5G, RedCap ensures the Ultra 3 keeps pace with modern connectivity demands without draining battery life.
S11 Chip: Power and Efficiency
At the heart of the Ultra 3 lies the S11 chip, a next-generation system-on-chip designed for improved performance and energy efficiency. Apple’s annual chip upgrades consistently enhance processing power, and the S11 is no exception, promising smoother animations, faster app launches, and better handling of complex tasks like real-time fitness tracking. The chip’s efficiency could also extend battery life, a critical factor for users relying on the watch during multi-day adventures. This upgrade ensures the Ultra 3 remains responsive under heavy use, from navigating trails to managing notifications.
Blood Pressure Monitoring: A Health Game-Changer?
Apple has been developing blood pressure monitoring for its smartwatches, and there’s a chance this feature could debut with the Ultra 3. Unlike precise medical devices, the watch would focus on detecting hypertension trends over time, alerting users to potential issues rather than providing exact systolic and diastolic readings. While accuracy challenges may delay its inclusion, this feature could position the Ultra 3 as a leader in proactive health monitoring, appealing to users who prioritize wellness alongside rugged functionality. If not ready for this release, it’s likely to appear in future iterations.
watchOS 26: Smarter Software Enhancements
The Ultra 3 will ship with watchOS 26, introducing a Liquid Glass design that unifies the visual experience across Apple devices. This update includes a revamped Smart Stack for quicker access to widgets, a customizable Control Center, and an AI-powered Workout Buddy. The Workout Buddy leverages personal health metrics to deliver tailored coaching and motivational prompts, enhancing the fitness experience. These software improvements, combined with the Ultra 3’s hardware, make it a more intuitive companion for daily use and specialized activities.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 builds on its predecessors’ strengths, blending cutting-edge connectivity, a refined display, and potential health innovations. Tailored for those who demand durability and functionality, it’s poised to compete with specialized wearables while maintaining Apple’s signature polish. As the launch approaches, this device promises to elevate what a smartwatch can do in the wild.
