While Apple's iPhone announcements stole the spotlight at their recent event, the updates to the Apple Watch lineup were equally noteworthy. The Series 11, alongside the Watch SE 3 and Watch Ultra 3, boasts intriguing features, with the Series 11 standing out for its subtle yet impactful improvements.
At first glance, the Series 11 appears nearly identical to its predecessor, the Series 10. The dimensions remain largely unchanged, maintaining the sleek, thin profile. However, a closer inspection reveals a significant upgrade: a new IonX coating offering double the scratch resistance. A stylish new space gray case option joins the lineup, though the rose gold pairing remains a captivating alternative. The comfortable loop band is a welcome addition to the overall aesthetic.
The real advancements lie beneath the surface. The Series 11 introduces groundbreaking "Possible hypertension" alerts, leveraging existing optical heart rate sensors to analyze blood vessel patterns. This innovative feature detects variations in blood pressure, alerting users to consult a medical professional if concerning trends are observed. It's crucial to note that this isn't a direct blood pressure reading; rather, it focuses on identifying potentially problematic inconsistencies.
This functionality mirrors other proactive health features in the Apple Watch ecosystem, such as sleep apnea and high heart rate detection. As this feature relies on data trends over time, a comprehensive evaluation requires extended use, beyond the brief hands-on experience.
Another noteworthy addition is the sleep score feature integrated with watchOS 26. While not exclusive to the Series 11, it's a valuable enhancement for all compatible watches. Users receive their sleep score immediately upon waking, eliminating the need for a lengthy data accumulation period. This immediate feedback promotes a more proactive approach to sleep health.
Apple promises improved battery life, extending to a full 24 hours, with eight hours allocated to sleep tracking. A comprehensive assessment requires a full review, but the claim is encouraging for users prioritizing all-day wear.
Beyond the Series 11, the Apple Watch SE 3 and Ultra 3 also received significant updates, each offering compelling features at various price points, creating a comprehensive and innovative range of smartwatches from Apple.
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Originally published at: https://www.engadget.com/wearables/apple-watch-series-11-hands-on-feels-and-looks-the-same-but-real-changes-are-deeper-200438367.html
