Apple's highly anticipated 'Awe-Dropping' event delivered a triple whammy of smartwatch innovation with the unveiling of the Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3. Each model boasts significant upgrades, catering to diverse needs and budgets.
The Apple Watch Series 11 takes center stage with a groundbreaking 24-hour battery life – a significant leap from its predecessor's 18-hour limit. Available in 46mm and 42mm sizes, featuring Ion-X glass for enhanced scratch resistance, and a vibrant 2,000-nit display, the Series 11 is a visual and functional powerhouse. This year's model introduces 5G cellular connectivity (GPS + Cellular versions) and a new health feature: blood pressure notifications. Utilizing advanced machine learning, the watch analyzes heart rate patterns over 30 days to detect potential hypertension. This functionality extends back to the Series 9, highlighting Apple's commitment to continuous improvement. Preloaded with WatchOS 26, users can enjoy enhanced sleep tracking with a gamified sleep score. Aesthetically, the Series 11 showcases two new watch faces: the stylish 'Flow' and the classic 'Exactograph', both showcasing Apple's new Liquid Glass visual redesign. A convenient wrist flick gesture provides a quick way to dismiss notifications and control timers and alarms.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3, priced at $799, refines the rugged design with a slightly larger display achieved through 24% thinner bezels, retaining the official 49mm x 44mm dimensions. Leveraging new LTPO3 OLED technology, the always-on display now refreshes at one second intervals without impacting battery life. Apple claims up to 42 hours of normal use, extending to 20 hours in Low Power Mode during continuous outdoor training. The Ultra 3 maintains its 72-hour Low Power Mode battery life. This enhanced model is thinner than its predecessor at 12mm compared to 14.4mm. It also includes 5G connectivity and Emergency SOS via satellite, features first introduced in the iPhone 14 series.
Rounding out the trio, the Apple Watch SE 3, starting at $249, delivers remarkable value with substantial feature upgrades. Available in 44mm and 40mm sizes, the SE 3 now incorporates wrist temperature sensing, sleep apnea notifications, ovulation estimates, and sleep scores. The inclusion of Apple's AI-powered Workout Buddy adds an engaging element to fitness routines. The SE 3 benefits from an always-on display, fast charging, and 5G cellular connectivity, powered by the S10 chip found in the Series 11 and 10. While lacking some of the higher-end features of its siblings (ECG, depth gauge, water temperature sensor, and hypertension detection), it provides a significantly improved experience over the SE 2, making it a compelling budget-friendly option.
All three models – the Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3 – are available for pre-order now and will launch on September 19th.
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Originally published at: https://www.ign.com/articles/apple-announces-apple-watch-series-11-with-24-hour-battery-life
