Apple's latest smartwatch offerings, the Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3, represent a significant evolution, though a more iterative one than in previous years. While not boasting groundbreaking new chips (they all utilize the S10 chip), these models build upon existing strengths with notable refinements.
The Series 11 maintains the sleek design of its predecessor but boasts an extended 24-hour battery life thanks to internal battery improvements. The use of recycled titanium, 3D-printed for all titanium models, represents a significant leap in sustainable manufacturing, showcasing Apple's commitment to environmental responsibility. The fit and finish remain exceptional, a hallmark of Apple's attention to detail. New watch faces like the Exactograph, inspired by regulator dials, and the dynamic Flow face add visual flair.
Health features remain a core focus. The Series 11, along with compatible older models, introduces hypertension notifications and a comprehensive sleep score. While the hypertension notifications serve as an early warning system, encouraging users to seek professional medical advice, the sleep score provides a helpful summary of sleep patterns.
The Ultra 3, retaining the durable design of its predecessor, receives an upgrade to a 42-hour battery life. The introduction of a new LTPO3 display with wide-angle OLEDs significantly improves viewing angles and low-power performance, allowing for a continuously displayed seconds hand in always-on mode. The addition of 5G connectivity and satellite communication enhances its functionality, especially for users in remote locations. The satellite feature provides crucial emergency communication capabilities even without cellular service.
The SE 3 acts as the budget-friendly entry point, offering many flagship features at a lower price. While it features the S10 chip and an always-on display, it uses an older LTPO panel with a slower refresh rate and narrower viewing angles compared to the Series 11 and Ultra 3. However, it includes several health enhancements, such as wrist temperature sensing, ovulation estimates, and sleep apnea notifications (although lacking EKG or hypertension detection).
In summary, Apple's latest Apple Watches offer a compelling range of options. The Series 11 provides a refined and elegant everyday experience, while the Ultra 3 excels as a rugged, feature-rich device for outdoor enthusiasts. The SE 3 serves as an affordable alternative, particularly suitable for fitness tracking and basic health monitoring. Each model offers significant improvements over previous generations, solidifying Apple's position as a leader in the smartwatch market.
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Originally published at: https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/the-apple-watch-series-11-ultra-3-and-se-3
