Apple has unveiled its latest smartwatch offerings: the Apple Watch Series 12 and Watch Ultra 4. Designed for fitness enthusiasts and tech aficionados alike, these new models promise advanced health features, impressive battery life, and a stylish new look, setting a new standard in wearable technology.
Both models are powered by the new S11 chip and boast enhanced optical/electrical heart rate sensors, coupled with a redesigned Health Sensing System. Apple claims these watches provide the most accurate heart rate measurements in the wearable market, validated by a study involving over 1,000 participants against top competitors.
Heart rate monitoring is taken to the next level, with readings every 5 seconds and heart rate variability assessed 24 times more frequently than in earlier versions.
New to this generation of Apple Watches is the Readiness Score, rated from 0 to 10, which indicates your preparedness for different training loads. Additionally, the updated Health app introduces the concept of Health Age under its Longevity tab, combining metrics such as VO₂ max, resting heart rate, heart rate variability, and sleep data to provide insights on your overall health compared to your biological age.
Notably, the Health Age feature is not restricted to the latest models and will be available for older Apple Watches later this year, beginning in the United States.
A standout feature of the Apple Watch Ultra 4 is its impressive battery life. While Apple doesn't specify milliamp hours, they do mention that it can last up to 50 hours on regular use—an increase of 8 hours from its predecessor, marking a 19% improvement. In Low Power Mode, it can survive for an astonishing 84 hours, surpassing the Watch Ultra 3 by 12 hours.
The Series 12 offers a battery life of 24 hours for general use and 38 hours in Low Power Mode, maintaining the previous generation's standards. However, outdoor workout battery life is now extended to an impressive 10 hours—a 25% increase over the Series 11.
The Apple Watch Series 12 comes in two sizes (42mm and 46mm) and offers a variety of case materials and finishes. New aluminum colors include Dark Bronze, Black, and Light Gold, in addition to Space Grey. The aluminum models feature durable Ceramic Shield 2 glass, which is touted as having 60% more resistance compared to Ion-X glass.
The titanium models, available in Radiant Gold and Natural Titanium, are constructed from 100% recycled titanium. The return of ceramic is showcased in two elegant finishes: Pearl White and Night Blue for the Series 12.
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 features a Grade 5 titanium construction and is offered in Natural Titanium and Black Titanium colors.
Regarding bands, potential buyers can choose from several options: the Trail Loop in Dark Umber, Sand, and Burgundy; the Alpine Loop in Desert, Dark Olive, and Burgundy; and the revamped Ocean Band with a translucent finish available in Translucent Gray, Translucent Kelp, and Translucent Black.
The Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 are now available for pre-order, with retail availability starting September 18. Pricing begins at $399/€449 for the Series 12 and $799/€899 for the Ultra 4.
