Apple is gearing up to launch the Apple Watch Ultra 3 at its “Awe Dropping” event on September 9, 2025, alongside the iPhone 17 series and Apple Watch Series 11. Following a year without a major redesign, the rugged Ultra series is poised for its next evolution. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from the upcoming release.
Apple Watch Ultra 3: Design and Display
The overall design of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to remain consistent with its predecessors, but the display is set for an upgrade. Evidence from the iOS 26 beta points to a higher resolution of 422 x 514 pixels, up from the Ultra 2’s 410 x 502 pixels. With no rumors of a larger case size, this likely stems from slimmer bezels, making the Ultra 3’s display the largest yet on an Apple Watch.
The Ultra 3 may also incorporate the LTPO3 OLED display introduced in the Apple Watch Series 10. This technology enhances brightness at various angles and supports an always-on display that can dim to 1 nit, allowing the second hand to update even when the wrist is lowered—a feature expected to carry over to the Ultra 3.
Processor and Performance
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is likely to feature the new S11 chip. While its performance may align closely with the S9 and S10 chips, the smaller chip size could free up internal space for a larger battery or additional components, potentially boosting efficiency or enabling new features.
Apple Watch Ultra 3: Connectivity Enhancements
A major highlight is the potential introduction of satellite connectivity, a first for Apple’s watch lineup. This feature would enable Emergency SOS functionality in areas without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage, and it may extend to text messaging, similar to the iPhone’s satellite capabilities. This could be a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts in remote environments.
Additionally, the Ultra 3 is expected to transition from LTE to 5G, leveraging MediaTek’s 5G RedCap chip. Designed specifically for wearables, this chip offers improved efficiency and faster data speeds compared to LTE, enhancing connectivity for users on the go.
Apple Watch Ultra 3: Health Monitoring
Apple is reportedly working on blood pressure monitoring, which may debut in the Ultra 3. Rather than providing precise systolic and diastolic readings, the feature would track blood pressure trends and alert users to potential hypertension risks, prompting them to seek medical advice. This could significantly enhance the watch’s health-tracking capabilities.
Apple Watch Ultra 3: Charging Improvements
The Ultra 3 may adopt the redesigned charging system from the Apple Watch Series 10, featuring a larger coil and integrated antenna. This upgrade enabled the Series 10 to charge to 80% in approximately 30 minutes, and a similar boost in charging speed is anticipated for the Ultra 3, improving convenience for users.