Apple Watch Ultra 3

The Apple Watch Ultra range has always been a premium offering in Apple's wearables range, and the Apple Watch Ultra 3 should carry on that tradition. Arriving after the Apple Watch Ultra 2, it will be the replacement top-specification timepiece in Apple's product catalog.

The video is about Apple Watch Series 10, but it could provide some insight into what to expect for the next-generation Ultra. A new processor and sleep apnea detection are certain for the Apple Watch Ultra 3, plus new premium Ultra-only features on top.

As an unreleased product, there are a few rumors spreading about what the latest model will offer. Apple won't announce it until September 2025.

Apple Watch Ultra 3: familiar but upgraded

Much like other products in Apple's catalog, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 will probably stick close to the design and specifications of its predecessor for most elements. Some areas will see an update, but it remains to be seen how much different the third-gen model can be over the second.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to keep the same design

It's probably safe to say that, without rumors saying otherwise, the usual expectations can be a Titanium enclosure, an Action button, an orange-ringed Digital Crown, and a protruding Side button. 

High levels of brightness protected by sapphire glass, a 36-hour battery life, and support for high altitudes and deep diving are also probable inclusions to the spec list. 

Apple Watch Ultra 3: new chip, no Apple Intelligence

The addition of a new chip to power the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is anticipated, with it probably offering power efficiencies and some performance improvements. 

However, while the iPhone, iPad, and Mac lines will enjoy the benefits of Apple Intelligence, it seems unlikely that the Apple Watch Ultra 3's chip will be powerful enough to use it. 

While users who link their Apple Watch to their iPhone may see some use of Apple Intelligence, it's going to entirely depend on the iPhone's on-device processing, not the Apple Watch.

Apple Watch bands

There is some concern that Apple may finally abandon its classic Apple Watch band design in future models. It isn't yet clear if that would happen with an Apple Watch Ultra 3 in 2025 or later.

When Apple Watch first debuted, it offered a novel concept of easily swapped bands that was quickly copied by competitors. The connector hasn't changed through a decade of watches, even the Ultra models.

Apple Watch Ultra 3: display

From April 2023, a report from an analyst claimed Apple will use a MicroLED display in an Apple Watch that will be released in late 2025. The analyst didn't say which model, but it's plausible to mean the Apple Watch Ultra. 

MicroLED offers benefits similar to the OLED, including localized dimming and contrast. However it also stands to offer higher resolutions and brighter images. 

Despite the prospect of MicroLED displays, there have also been reports in 2024 claiming suppliers have received cancellation notices, endangering the prospect of a display upgrade. 

Apple Watch Ultra 3: new health sensors

Apple is always looking for new health sensors to pack into the Apple Watch lineup. However, the limited space doesn't offer much opportunity for new technology.

Apple could include new health sensors or make the existing stack a little smaller

Rumors suggest Apple could introduce blood pressure sensing or other metrics with upgraded sensors. As is usual with Apple's health tracking, the data wouldn't be used for diagnosis, but to warn the user if they need to contact a doctor.

The moonshot goal for Apple Watch Ultra 3 or a future generation would be non-invasive blood glucose monitoring. Such a sensor would be very expensive, but an incredible boon to anyone that wants to avoid the painful pricks.

The new sleep apnea detection is a likely feature. Blood oxygen detection is still not allowed to be enabled in the United States.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 release date and price

After adding only a new black color to Apple Watch Ultra 2 in 2024, it is likely Apple Watch Ultra 3 won't be revealed until September 2025. Apple is expected to maintain the same price structure starting at $799.