Apple is set to unveil the Apple Watch Ultra 3 at its eagerly awaited “Awe Dropping” event on September 9, 2025, alongside the iPhone 17 series. As the first new Ultra model in two years, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 promises to be a major enhancement in Apple’s rugged smartwatch lineup, especially for adventurers, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts. With a significant leap in display size, performance, connectivity, charging speeds, and groundbreaking health features like blood pressure monitoring, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is shaping up to be the ultimate smartwatch upgrade for both first-generation Ultra users and those seeking the pinnacle of wearable technology. This article explores every major feature, improvement, and innovation that the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to bring, helping prospective buyers and tech fans understand why it’s worth the upgrade.
Largest Apple Watch Display Ever
One of the most notable upgrades in the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is its display. According to leaked iOS 26 code, the Ultra 3 will boast Apple’s largest smartwatch display yet, with a 422 x 514 resolution—a noticeable increase over the Ultra 2’s 410 x 502 panel. This higher resolution display manages to deliver more screen space without increasing the physical case size because Apple is reducing bezel width to maximize usable display area.
This means users will enjoy a sleeker and more premium look with sharper text and more room for complicated watch faces, widgets, and complications. The display’s brightness and outdoor readability are expected to be markedly improved thanks to a wide-angle LTPO OLED panel that offers up to 40% more brightness when viewed from an angle compared to previous models. Additionally, the always-on display will benefit from smoother animations including a live seconds hand to enhance usability without draining the battery.
Next-Generation Performance with S11 Chip
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is anticipated to introduce Apple’s next-generation S11 chip architecture, building on the strong foundation laid by the S9 and S10 chips in the Ultra 2 and Series 10 models. Leaks reveal that the S11 will maintain the same T8310 dual-core structure based on elements of the A16 Bionic chip, ensuring powerful performance fitting for demanding smartwatch tasks.
While raw speed increases might be incremental rather than revolutionary, the new chip is expected to be more power efficient, potentially enabling longer battery life or supporting additional sensors and features. The refined architecture may also contribute to improved thermal management, which is crucial for a smartwatch designed for rugged activities and extreme conditions.
Breakthrough Satellite Connectivity for Off-Grid Messaging
A groundbreaking rumored feature that sets the Ultra 3 apart is the introduction of satellite connectivity. Borrowing technology from emergency satellite features first introduced on iPhone 14 and enhanced in iOS 18, the Ultra 3 may be the first Apple Watch capable of sending emergency text messages and potentially regular texts using satellite networks like Globalstar.
This is a game-changer for outdoor adventurers, hikers, and travelers who often find themselves beyond cellular and Wi-Fi coverage. Satellite connectivity will provide a critical communication lifeline in emergencies, allowing users to send SOS messages or basic texts when all other networks are unavailable. This feature could save lives by drastically improving safety in remote areas. Apple is rumored to offer two years of satellite messaging service free of charge with the Ultra 3, similar to the iPhone’s offering.
Enhanced 5G Cellular and Connectivity
Alongside the satellite messaging, the Ultra 3 is expected to be Apple’s first smartwatch to support 5G connectivity, marking a major upgrade from the LTE-only cellular options in previous Ultra models. Apple reportedly plans to use MediaTek’s new 5G RedCap modem optimized for wearables. This chip supports streamlined, low-power 5G connectivity suited perfectly for smartwatches, offering faster data speeds and more reliable networks where 5G is available.
The combination of 5G cellular and satellite communication makes the Ultra 3 an extraordinary connectivity powerhouse that ensures users stay connected virtually anywhere. Additionally, the watch’s Bluetooth is upgraded to version 5.3 for improved pairing and data transfer efficiency with compatible devices.
Dramatically Faster Charging
Charging speeds will also see a significant overhaul. The Ultra 3 is rumored to adopt the metal-backed design introduced with the Apple Watch Series 10. This redesign includes a larger charging coil and integrated antenna, resulting in dramatically faster charge times and enhanced cellular reception.
For context, while the Ultra 2 requires roughly one hour to charge from zero to 80%, the Series 10 can hit the same 80% charge in just 30 minutes. If the Ultra 3 ships with the Series 10’s charging technology, recharging its larger battery will be notably quicker, reducing downtime and increasing usability for those constantly on the move.
Best-in-Class Health and Fitness Monitoring
Health tracking remains a cornerstone of the Apple Watch experience, and the Ultra 3 intensifies focus on comprehensive wellness. The watch is set to debut blood pressure monitoring, a monumental health feature long in development at Apple. While not a replacement for clinical cuffs, it will help detect hypertension trends early, prompting timely lifestyle changes or professional checkups.
Alongside this, the Ultra 3 retains Apple’s trusted ECG, heart-rate monitoring, blood oxygen level sensors, and skin temperature tracking. Furthermore, enhanced sleep tracking capabilities with daily sleep scores aim to provide deeper insights into rest quality and wellness trends.
The Ultra 3 also includes safety features such as fall detection, car crash detection, and emergency SOS—further boosted by its cellular and satellite-based independence from iPhones. Altogether, it cements the Ultra 3’s position as a serious health companion for both casual users and serious athletes.
Rugged Design Built for Extreme Conditions
The Ultra series is known for its robust, durable construction for outdoor and extreme sport users. The Ultra 3 reportedly continues this tradition with a titanium case designed to withstand water resistance up to 100 meters, dust resistance, and scratch-resistant materials for long-term durability.
The physical design is crafted to be comfortable for continuous wear, even during intensive activities like rock climbing, diving, or long-distance running. Its larger screen enhances usability without compromising the watch’s toughness.
Battery Life That Goes the Distance
While Apple’s standard Series models focus on all-day battery life (~18 hours), the Ultra series prioritizes endurance. The Ultra 3 is anticipated to support battery life extending beyond 36 hours of continuous use and potentially up to 72 hours in low power mode. This long-lasting battery paired with faster charging makes it ideal for extended adventures far from charging points.
What About Apple Watch Series 11?
Launching alongside the Ultra 3 is the Apple Watch Series 11, targeted at mainstream users wanting the latest tech in a sleek package. It will share many features such as the S11 chip, blood pressure monitoring, and enhanced health sensors, but the focus on ruggedness, satellite communication, and extreme battery life remains unique to the Ultra 3.
Pricing and Availability
While Apple has yet to reveal the official price for the Ultra 3, rumors suggest the premium device will command a price similar to or slightly above the Ultra 2, reflecting its advanced features and cutting-edge technology. The watch is expected to be available for pre-order shortly after the September 9 event, with shipping beginning later in the month.
Final Thoughts: Should You Upgrade to Apple Watch Ultra 3?
For users with the original Apple Watch Ultra or those seeking a smartwatch that truly excels in rugged environments, the Ultra 3’s combination of a larger, brighter display, satellite messaging, faster 5G connectivity, quicker charging, and medical-grade health monitoring make the upgrade a compelling choice.
For general users, the Apple Watch Series 11 offers many improvements without the Ultra’s extreme durability or satellite capabilities. But if off-grid safety, long battery life, and ultimate outdoor performance are priorities, Apple Watch Ultra 3 stands out as the definitive smartwatch for 2025
