This time tomorrow, we’ll find out exactly what Apple plans to do with its new Apple Watch line. But one thing already seems very likely: an updated version of the rugged Ultra. Not only is there an update coming (the Ultra 2 will launch in September 2023), but Apple has dropped perhaps its biggest hint yet. Buried in the iOS 26 public beta (First spotted by MacRumors) are screen specs that don’t match any existing Apple Watch model on the market, suggesting the arrival of an Apple Watch Ultra 3. For a secretive company like Apple, this mistake could be the clearest sign of the future of its longest-running smartwatch.
Here’s everything we expect from the Ultra 3 at Apple’s event on September 9, based on the latest reports, leaks and regular update patterns.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 design and screen
If the leaked iOS 26 images are correct, the Ultra 3 will get a slightly larger screen with a resolution of 422 x 514 pixels (compared to the Ultra 2’s 410 x 502 pixels). In keeping with Apple’s tradition of maximizing screen real estate without increasing the size of the already massive Ultra, an improvement in screen size would not increase the actual footprint and could be achieved by reducing the size of the bezel.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 performance
The Ultra needs a performance boost to at least keep up with the S10 chip from the current 10 series (the Ultra 2 is powered by the S9 chip). The most likely scenario is that the Ultra 3 and Series 11 will get a new S11 chip, which would normally offer faster performance and higher efficiency. The increased processing power could support new features like improved GPS tracking, satellite connectivity, expanded health monitoring, and perhaps additional Apple Intelligence integrations like Workout Buddy, which Apple announced in WatchOS 26 (and which I think could be a bigger deal in the first release).
Apple Watch Ultra 3 satellite connection
Here comes one of the most interesting rumors about the Ultra 3 Bloomberg’s Mark Gurmanwhich reported that Apple is investigating satellite connectivity for the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra model. This would enable emergency messaging and location sharing even in areas without mobile coverage.
If implemented, it could take advantage of the Apple Watch’s existing suite of potentially life-saving features, such as emergency SOS, fall detection and car accident detection for outdoor enthusiasts or even those living in remote areas.
The gourmand relationship It also suggests that the Ultra could benefit from 5G connectivity, a step up from the current LTE-only support.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 health and fitness
Several health improvements expected for the Series 11 may also come to the Ultra 3, with blood pressure monitoring the most anticipated. According to GurmannApple is already testing this feature, but accuracy issues could delay its public launch this year.
Monitoring blood sugar levels is another innovation that has been talked about for a while, but is predicted to be even further away than measuring blood pressure, making this highly unlikely until 2025.
In another Bloomberg reportGurman said Apple is developing a broader AI health initiative called “Project Mulberry,” which aims to bring personalized health and fitness information to the Apple Watch. This would build on Apple’s recently announced AI-powered Workout Buddy, which uses Watch OS 26 to provide personalized motivation for specific workouts. The Ultra’s ruggedness and long battery life could make it an ideal platform for 24/7 fitness tips, though current rumors suggest a launch might be better timed for a 2026 release.
Battery life for Apple Watch Ultra 3
The Ultra already has the longest battery life of any Apple device (except for the Airtag, of course), with up to two full days, or 72 hours, in power save mode. While there’s no specific information on battery capacity changes, pairing an S11 chip with a more efficient display could provide significant benefits: potentially up to three days, or up to four days in low-power mode. The faster charging that Apple introduced with the Series 10 could also come to the Ultra line, reducing the time the watch spends off the wrist.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 price and release date
Barring an unexpected price increase due to tariffs or component costs, the Ultra 3 is expected to retain the same $799 starting price as the Ultra 2.
Apple usually presents its new watches at the same event as the iPhone, this year on September 9. If the trend continues, pre-orders should start a few days after the keynote and arrive in stores (or at your home) a week or two later.