Tag: Apple Watch Ultra 2

  • Apple unveils watchOS 27, drops support for 4 older Watch models

    Key Takeaway

    – watchOS 27 requires Apple Watch Series 10, Ultra 2, or SE 3; Series 9 and older are excluded.
    – Siri AI based on Google Gemini can operate apps (e.g., route planning, adding photos).
    – AI predicts app selection for a smaller, smarter app list.
    – New features: revised Liquid Glass design, enhanced Workout Buddy, thumb-index finger tap gesture, Wallet QR codes, faster Music app.

    New Operating System Update Revealed at WWDC

    At WWDC today, Apple not only announced iOS 27 and macOS 27 Golden Gate, but also watchOS 27. While the smartwatch operating system was only mentioned in a few words at the press conference, Apple’s website shows what new features the Apple Watch will receive in the fall – and reveals a disappointment for users of slightly older Apple Watches.

    Disapointing Compatibility News for Owners

    While watchOS 26 could still be installed on all models back to the Apple Watch Series 6, watchOS 27 requires at least an Apple Watch Series 10, an Apple Watch Ultra 2 or an Apple Watch SE 3. Even the just two and a half year old Apple Watch Series 9 will be left behind and will probably not receive any further feature updates. Anyone using a current model such as the Apple Watch Series 11 will mainly receive new AI features with the update.

    Siri Gets a Major Upgrade With AI Integration

    Apple is bringing Siri AI and the Siri app to the Apple Watch. This app is very reminiscent of standard AI chatbots like ChatGPT, and this is no coincidence, as the app is based on Google Gemini. Siri can also operate apps and, for example, plan a route in Apple Maps or add a photo to an album.

    Minor Innovations and Design Tweaks

    Apart from that, watchOS 27 only brings minor innovations. The app selection can use AI to guess which app is likely to be selected and thus display a smaller selection. The “Liquid Glass” design has been slightly revised. The Workout Buddy gets more motivational sayings based on additional data. A new tap gesture with thumb and index finger can open a widget, the Wallet app can display QR codes of any tickets and membership cards, and the music app starts faster.


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  • iPhone 17 Leak: First-Party Magnetic Nylon Crossbody Strap Revealed

    iPhone 17 Leak: First-Party Magnetic Nylon Crossbody Strap Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple iPhone 17 series will be revealed on 9 September, featuring four new models.
    2. New successors to the Apple Watch Series 10 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 will also be introduced.
    3. Apple plans to release TechWoven cases and magnetic crossbody straps.
    4. The straps will be made of woven nylon and silicone, available in various colors, and require a TechWoven case for attachment.
    5. The magnetic straps may allow for easy length adjustments and may be compatible with AirPods Pro 3.

    The Apple iPhone 17 series is expected to be revealed on 9 September. Along with four new models of the iPhone 17, the company will also introduce successors to the Apple Watch Series 10, which is around $359 on Amazon, and the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Additionally, there are plans for a variety of accessories, including the new TechWoven cases and crossbody straps. Leaker Majin Bu Official has released some early information regarding these upcoming straps.

    Material Choices and Colors

    Apple is likely to provide two types of materials: woven nylon and silicone, with various colors to match the new protective cases. Importantly, the straps cannot attach directly to an iPhone; they need to be used in conjunction with a TechWoven case that includes a built-in connector. The straps also come with a magnetic feature for easy attachment and removal.

    Magnetic Features and Compatibility

    According to Majin Bu Official, the crossbody straps are magnetic along their full length, potentially because of embedded metal fibers. The reason behind this design is still uncertain, but it may allow for simple length adjustments. There’s also a possibility that these straps will work with the AirPods Pro 3, which wouldn’t be surprising since the charging case for AirPods Pro 2 already supports a hand strap. The pricing details for these crossbody straps have not been disclosed yet. As usual, it is wise to be cautious with leaked information, but the event on 9 September is anticipated to shed more light on these products.

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    iPhone 17 Leak: First-Party Magnetic Nylon Crossbody Strap RevealediPhone 17 Leak: First-Party Magnetic Nylon Crossbody Strap RevealediPhone 17 Leak: First-Party Magnetic Nylon Crossbody Strap Revealed

     

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  • Apple Watch Ultra 2 Outperforms Garmin, Whoop, and Samsung Sensors

    Apple Watch Ultra 2 Outperforms Garmin, Whoop, and Samsung Sensors

    Key Takeaways

    1. The heart rate sensor of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is highly accurate, showing minimal deviation from the Polar H10 chest strap during indoor and outdoor activities, outperforming many competitors.

    2. During outdoor activities, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 maintained strong heart rate tracking, while competitors like Garmin and Whoop had significantly higher deviations.

    3. The sleep tracking feature of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 demonstrated approximately 73% accuracy for REM and deep sleep, and 86.5% for light sleep, slightly outperforming the Oura Gen 4 Smart Ring.

    4. The Apple Watch Ultra 2’s sleep tracking accuracy is better than that of the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, Whoop 4.0, and Garmin Fenix 7, though results are based on limited testing.

    5. Despite its strong performance, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 may struggle with heart rate detection during weightlifting due to wrist tension, suggesting a dedicated chest strap is still recommended for such activities.

    Rob ter Horst, a researcher focused on bioinformatics and the creator of the YouTube channel The Quantified Scientist, has evaluated the sensors of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 (starting at $799 on Amazon) while utilizing the latest beta version of watchOS 26. He conducted comparisons with a variety of other smartwatches to see if users can depend on the information provided by Apple’s top smartwatch.

    Heart Rate Sensor Evaluation

    To start, the heart rate sensor was examined. During an indoor running session, it gathered data that was almost identical to that from the reference device, which was a Polar H10 chest strap in this instance. Although there were slight differences, they were minor and thus rather unimportant in practice. This positions the Apple Watch Ultra 2 alongside the leading smartwatches, like the Huawei Watch 5. For context, the Whoop MG showed a deviation of around 6% from the reference device, and the Garmin Forerunner 570 deviated by roughly 7%. Meanwhile, the Garmin Fenix 7 was off by 9%, while the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 only deviated by 3%.

    Performance During Outdoor Activities

    When it came to outdoor runs and cycling, the heart rate sensor of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 also provided data that was nearly on par with the reference device, widening the gap between it and its competitors. The cycling data from the Garmin Forerunner 570 deviated by 12%, and the Whoop MG’s deviation rose to over 15%. Nevertheless, it’s important to highlight that a dedicated heart rate chest strap remains a valuable investment for weightlifters, as the Apple Watch Ultra 2, like many other smartwatches, struggles to detect heart rate when there is excessive tension on the wrist.

    Sleep Tracking Analysis

    Besides the heart rate sensor, Rob ter Horst also evaluated the sleep tracking feature of the Apple Watch Ultra 2. The reference device used was a Hypnodyne ZMax, which captures brain waves through EEG and claims to record sleep phases with 72% accuracy, based on studies. In comparison, polysomnography (PSG) used in sleep labs has an accuracy of about 83%. Against the ZMax, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 demonstrated an accuracy of approximately 73% for REM and deep sleep, and an impressive 86.5% for light sleep.

    This result is outstanding when compared to its rivals and even slightly outperforms the Oura Gen 4 Smart Ring. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, Whoop 4.0, and Garmin Fenix 7 showed notably lower accuracy in this area. However, it’s worth mentioning that this test and comparison only involved one unit of each wearable and a single participant. Due to the limited sample size, the findings are only moderately indicative of the overall performance and accuracy of these devices.

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    Apple Watch Ultra 2 Outperforms Garmin, Whoop, and Samsung Sensors

     

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  • Apple Watch Series 11: Major Redesign and Blood Pressure Detection

    Apple Watch Series 11: Major Redesign and Blood Pressure Detection

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is expected to reveal the successors to the Apple Watch Series 10 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 alongside the iPhone 17 series on September 9, 2025.
    2. The new Apple Watch models will likely feature minimal changes, especially in the chipset, with the Apple S11 chip showing little difference from previous versions.
    3. Blood pressure detection may finally be introduced, focusing initially on identifying patterns and alerting users to abnormal readings, though this is not yet confirmed.
    4. Significant innovations are anticipated for the 2026 Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4, including a major redesign and the addition of new sensors.
    5. The potential doubling of sensors in future models may improve the watch’s efficiency and performance, although details about the redesign remain unclear.

    The upcoming successors to the Apple Watch Series 10 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 are likely to be revealed together with the iPhone 17 series on September 9, 2025. New details suggest that there won’t be many new features, especially regarding the chipset. The codename T8310 suggests that the Apple S11 chip will have minimal changes compared to the Apple S10 and S9.

    Blood Pressure Detection on the Horizon

    A recent report from Digitimes, a Taiwanese publication (subscription required), indicates that blood pressure detection might finally be introduced on the Apple Watch. This feature has been long awaited but has yet to be seen. Initially, the focus may be on detecting patterns and sending alerts for abnormal readings, but this is not yet officially confirmed. Meanwhile, non-invasive blood sugar monitoring still appears to be a distant ambition for Apple users.

    Future Innovations in 2026

    Exciting developments are expected in 2026 with the anticipated release of the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4. Supply chain insiders hint at a significant redesign for the Apple Watch, which may include new sensors. A new array of eight sensors positioned on the underside has been specifically mentioned. This sounds familiar to leaks from spring regarding an Apple Watch Series 10 prototype that featured a similar design, which could become a reality in the Apple Watch 12. There are indications that the number of sensors will be doubled in 2026.

    The added sensors are anticipated to enhance the Apple Watch’s efficiency and performance, likely allowing Apple to rely less on algorithmic data interpretation. However, the report lacks specifics about the redesign, particularly concerning changes to the watch’s casing or display. With over a year remaining until the expected launch of the next generation of Apple Watches, there’s still plenty of time for changes to occur, even if the supply chain information proves to be accurate.

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    Apple Watch Series 11: Major Redesign and Blood Pressure DetectionApple Watch Series 11: Major Redesign and Blood Pressure Detection

     

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  • Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro: Affordable Rival to Apple Watch Ultra 2

    Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro: Affordable Rival to Apple Watch Ultra 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro is a budget-friendly alternative to the Apple Watch Ultra 2, starting at €279 compared to Apple’s €899.
    2. It features a titanium alloy bezel, sapphire glass screen, and a lightweight design at 30.4 grams, with a 1.82-inch AMOLED display boasting 3,000 nits brightness and 347 ppi pixel density.
    3. The smartwatch claims superior battery life, lasting up to 7 days in normal mode and 10 days with battery saver, compared to the Apple Watch Ultra 2’s 72 hours in low power mode.
    4. It includes Huawei TruSense technology for tracking heart rate, oxygen saturation, and ECG, along with various fitness features, including a Golf Mode with access to over 15,000 golf course maps.
    5. The Watch Fit 4 Pro has a 5 ATM water resistance rating, sleep health tracking, and compatibility with Android, iOS, and EMUI, available in three color choices.

    The Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro has officially been revealed at the launch event in Berlin. This new smartwatch is an enhanced version of the standard model, and Huawei is marketing it as a budget-friendly rival to the Apple Watch Ultra 2. It comes with a starting price of €279 in the European market, while Apple’s premium device begins at €899.

    Competing Features

    Although the Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro is not a direct rival to the Apple Watch Ultra 2, it lacks several high-end features, like extensive third-party app compatibility. Nonetheless, Huawei emphasizes the apparently superior build quality of its latest device.

    Design and Display

    This new budget smartwatch features a bezel made from titanium alloy and a screen crafted from sapphire glass. It also has a lightweight design, weighing just 30.4 grams. The front of the device showcases a 1.82-inch AMOLED display that boasts a brightness of 3,000 nits. Huawei points out that this display has a pixel density of 347 ppi, which surpasses the 326 ppi of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 (49 mm GPS + Cellular currently priced at $729.99 on Amazon).

    Battery Life and Health Features

    Huawei asserts that the Watch Fit 4 Pro has superior battery life when compared to Apple’s leading smartwatch. More detailed, the company claims that the new device can last up to 7 days in normal mode, and with the battery saver feature, it can stretch to 10 days. In contrast, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is rated for a maximum of 72 hours in low power mode.

    In addition, the Watch Fit 4 Pro includes Huawei TruSense technology, which can track essential health metrics such as heart rate, oxygen saturation, and ECG readings. It also offers various fitness capabilities, including a Golf Mode with access to over 15,000 golf course maps.

    Additional Features

    Other notable features encompass a 5 ATM water resistance rating, tracking for sleep health, and compatibility with Android, iOS, and EMUI. The Watch Fit 4 Pro is offered in three different color choices at the official store.

    Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro: Affordable Rival to Apple Watch Ultra 2Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro: Affordable Rival to Apple Watch Ultra 2Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro: Affordable Rival to Apple Watch Ultra 2
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  • Apple Watch Ultra 2 Black Titanium Scratch Resistance Tested

    Apple Watch Ultra 2 Black Titanium Scratch Resistance Tested

    The new Black Titanium update for the Apple Watch Ultra might appear to be the ultimate gesture for fans of the device, unless you’re looking for a real hardware upgrade.

    Color Comparison

    Zach Nelson, the host of JerryRigEverything, remarked that the newly introduced finish resembled Space Gray more than Jet Black, which was the iPhone 7’s infamous colorway that gained notoriety for negative reasons.

    Durability and Design

    Despite this, Apple claims that the Black Titanium edition of its rugged 49mm watch will not face the same issues as the past. Interestingly, this version features a “diamond-like” coating made through a physical vapor deposition (PVD) method. This coating is designed to prevent the typical natural titanium from showing through and performed admirably in durability tests against the standard Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Garmin Fenix 7X, as examined by the YouTuber Chase the Summit.

    Testing Challenges

    In the durability tests, each smartwatch was exposed to everyday objects like keys and concrete, and the debris simply wiped off the Black Titanium finish, which appeared to be the tougher surface. The testing continued on the JerryRigEverything channel, where Nelson subjected the Black Titanium surface to more extreme challenges, including contacting hollowpoint bullets.

    Final Thoughts

    However, the tests concluded when Nelson used a standard razor blade from a branded knife. While it did leave typical titanium marks on the coating, it had no effect on the Ultra 2’s sapphire-enhanced display. Overall, it might be wise to handle the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in the new color with extra caution. A protective case like the Lite Fit Pro (priced at $24.99 on Amazon) from Spigen could provide some additional security.

    JerryRigEverything via YouTube

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  • Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra vs Apple Watch Ultra 2: Which to Buy?

    Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra vs Apple Watch Ultra 2: Which to Buy?

    Samsung has introduced its first "Ultra" smartwatch called the Galaxy Watch Ultra. This launch occurred alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, Galaxy Watch 7 series, and Galaxy Watch Ring. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is tailored for those who love the outdoors and fitness. It boasts a robust design with a Sapphire Crystal display and a titanium body, advanced health tracking features, and a durable battery life. Below is a comparison with the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which is Apple’s latest rugged smartwatch.

    Design and Display Comparison

    In terms of design, the Galaxy Watch Ultra showcases a classic round face combined with a rotating bezel, which appeals to traditional watch lovers. On the other hand, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 retains its unique rectangular shape, featuring a larger Digital Crown and a customizable Action Button, appealing to a contemporary audience.

    Both smartwatches are built to withstand tough conditions. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is equipped with a Sapphire Crystal display and offers IP68 and 10ATM ratings for water and dust resistance. Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 provides IP6X dust resistance, 10ATM water resistance, and complies with MIL-STD 810H standards. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 features a larger 1.92-inch LTPO OLED display, while the Galaxy Watch Ultra has a 1.5-inch Super AMOLED screen.

    Pricing and Specifications

    Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (47mm, LTE, Gray) is available with up to 100 hours of battery life, a 3nm processor, and dual GPS. You can check the price on Amazon.

    Apple Watch Ultra 2, equipped with GPS and Cellular features in a 49mm Black Titanium Case, comes with a Black Ocean Band. You can also find its price on Amazon.

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  • Black Titanium Apple Watch Ultra 2 Unveiled: Key Features

    Black Titanium Apple Watch Ultra 2 Unveiled: Key Features

    Apple has expanded its Apple Watch Ultra 2 collection by introducing a new black titanium finish, in addition to the existing natural titanium option, offering consumers a wider range of choices.

    The black titanium finish is achieved through a unique blasting technique followed by a carbon coating, which enhances its scratch resistance and durability for outdoor use. Additionally, the watch’s back is made from dark zirconia to complement the new color.

    Updated Bands and Elegant Options

    Apple has refreshed its Trail Loop, Alpine Loop, and Ocean Band with black hardware to match the black titanium casing. Furthermore, the new Titanium Milanese Loop band provides a sophisticated look, inspired by diver mesh bands, while being lightweight and corrosion-resistant.

    The Apple Watch Hermès Ultra 2 now also comes in the black titanium finish. This exclusive edition merges the resilience of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 with a nautical-themed Hermès band and distinctive Hermès watch face, catering to those who desire both elegance and practicality.

    Apple Watch Ultra 2 Features

    The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is designed to withstand harsh environments, boasting military-grade toughness (MIL-STD 810H) and water resistance up to 100 meters (WR100). It’s certified for diving up to 40 meters, making it ideal for activities like kitesurfing, wakeboarding, and scuba diving.

    The watch includes a rotating crown and action button for easy navigation, and a new double-tap gesture lets users complete tasks like answering calls or pausing timers without touching the screen.

    Its Always-on Retina display can reach up to 3,000 nits of brightness, ensuring visibility even under direct sunlight. Call quality is enhanced by three built-in microphones, and machine learning helps minimize wind noise.

    Health-tracking capabilities include a heart-rate monitor, ECG sensor, and SpO2 tracker. It can detect atrial fibrillation, crucial for heart health monitoring. For women, a menstrual cycle tracker utilizes temperature sensors for more accurate predictions.

    Advanced GPS and Safety Features

    Equipped with multi-band dual-frequency GPS, the watch is perfect for runners and hikers, while swimmers and divers benefit from the depth gauge. It also includes an 86 dB siren and emergency features like crash detection, which can automatically call for help after a severe car accident.

    Powered by the new S9 processor, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers improved performance and efficiency. It also features the second-generation ultrawide-band chip for enhanced location tracking and Find My functionality. The battery lasts up to 36 hours on a single charge, with the option to extend it to 72 hours in low-power mode.

    Pricing & Availability

    The Apple Watch Ultra 2 in black titanium starts at $799 / Rs. 89,900, and the version with the new Titanium Milanese Loop is priced at $1,399 / Rs. 1,04,900. Pre-orders are open, with shipping beginning on Friday, September 20.

    Black Titanium Apple Watch Ultra 2 Unveiled: Key Features
    Black Titanium Apple Watch Ultra 2 Unveiled: Key Features
    Black Titanium Apple Watch Ultra 2 Unveiled: Key Features
    Black Titanium Apple Watch Ultra 2 Unveiled: Key Features
    Black Titanium Apple Watch Ultra 2 Unveiled: Key Features
    Black Titanium Apple Watch Ultra 2 Unveiled: Key Features
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