The Apple Watch Ultra has cemented its place as the ultimate rugged smartwatch for adventurers. But how does the latest iteration, the Apple Watch Ultra 3, stack up against its predecessor, the Ultra 2? While superficially similar, several key improvements make the Ultra 3 a compelling upgrade.
Visually, both models share the same robust design: a chunky titanium case, a prominent Digital Crown, and two side buttons. The Ultra 3 utilizes a new 3D printing process for the case, resulting in a 50% reduction in raw materials used, although the weight difference is negligible. Durability remains a top priority, with both models boasting MIL-STD 810H, IP6X dust resistance, and 100-meter water resistance.
The most significant change lies within the display. The Ultra 3 boasts a brighter, more power-efficient LTPO3 wide-angle OLED Retina display, offering a noticeable improvement in viewing angles compared to the Ultra 2's LTPO2 variant. This technological leap translates to a larger active screen area (1245 square millimeters vs. 1185 square millimeters) and a higher resolution (422 x 514 pixels vs. 410 x 502 pixels), all without increasing the physical size of the watch.
Under the hood, the Ultra 3 features the new S10 SiP, a slimmer, more efficient processor than the Ultra 2's S9 SiP. While the performance difference might not be immediately apparent in everyday use, the smaller footprint allows for other internal improvements. Both models include the same impressive suite of health sensors: a third-generation optical heart sensor, ECG capabilities, an ambient light sensor, a high-dynamic-range gyroscope, and a water temperature sensor.
Health features are largely consistent, but the Ultra 3 benefits from the introduction of watchOS 26. This update introduces Sleep Score, Hypertension Notifications, and Workout Buddy, although these are not exclusive to the Ultra 3 and are available on older models as well.
Battery life receives a welcome boost. The Ultra 3 provides up to 42 hours of typical usage, a significant six-hour improvement over the Ultra 2's 36 hours. Fast charging capabilities are also enhanced, with an 80% charge achievable in 45 minutes. A five-minute charge now provides eight hours of sleep tracking, and a 15-minute charge delivers around 12 hours of normal use.
Connectivity sees a notable upgrade with the addition of 5G cellular support (excluding mmWave) and the highly anticipated Emergency SOS via Satellite, offering crucial assistance in areas with limited or no cellular coverage. Other connectivity features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and various GPS systems remain unchanged.
In conclusion, while not a revolutionary overhaul, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 delivers incremental but significant improvements over its predecessor. The enhanced display, increased battery life, and the addition of Emergency SOS via Satellite position it as the superior choice for those seeking the best in rugged, feature-rich smartwatch technology. The retail price remains at $799.
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Originally published at: https://appleinsider.com/inside/apple-watch-ultra-3/vs/apple-watch-ultra-3-vs-apple-watch-ultra-2----same-body-better-screen
