Tag: Apple Watch Ultra 3

  • Honor Watch 6 Plus with long battery life and Heart Guard Plus

    Honor Watch 6 Plus with long battery life and Heart Guard Plus

    Key Takeaway

    – It features a round display with a printed bezel, metal body, and a right-side digital crown; design reminiscent of the Huawei Watch GT 6.
    – A 1,000 mAh battery promises up to 35 days of use on a single charge, significantly larger than many rivals.
    – Offers 120 sports modes, including professional tracking options.
    – Includes Heart Guard Plus to assess risk of high blood pressure and heart attacks, though not a medical substitute.
    – Reservations are open in China, with launch likely in the next few days; pricing and global availability not confirmed.

    The Honor Watch 6 Plus was first seen in teaser images back in April. In the meantime, Honor has published numerous other images on the Chinese social network Weibo which show the smartwatch in silver, black and silver with blue color accents. The design is somewhat reminiscent of the Huawei Watch GT 6, as Honor also features a round display with a printed bezel, a metal body and a digital crown on the right-hand side.

    Design and visuals

    The most unique feature of the Honor Watch 6 Plus is the battery, which has a capacity of 1,000 mAh, making it significantly larger than most of its competitors. For comparison: the Apple Watch Ultra 3 costs $779 and has a 599 mAh battery, the larger 44 millimeter version of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 uses a 445 mAh battery, and even the new Amazfit Cheetah 2 Ultra makes do with a 780 mAh battery.

    Battery life and features

    According to Honor, this giant battery enables the smartwatch to be used for 35 days before it has to be recharged. Apart from the battery, Honor advertises two features in particular. Firstly, a total of 120 sports modes, including “professional” tracking options. And secondly, a feature called “Heart Guard Plus”, which is designed to determine the risk of high blood pressure and heart attacks, although, as usual, such functions cannot replace medical examinations. Honor has not yet confirmed when or at what price the Honor Watch 6 Plus will be launched on the market. However, now that reservations have been opened in China, the launch is likely to take place in the next few days.


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  • Garmin inReach: 3,000 Emergency Calls in 2025, Helicopter Needed

    Garmin inReach: 3,000 Emergency Calls in 2025, Helicopter Needed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple has introduced satellite communication on the Apple Watch Ultra 3, while Garmin has offered this feature on models like the Fenix 8 Pro for longer.
    2. In 2025, over 3,000 emergencies were reported through Garmin’s inReach, with a notable increase in water sports, hiking, and medical emergencies.
    3. Hiking and backpacking are the most common activities leading to emergency reports, with vehicle troubles and medical issues also significant.
    4. Helicopters are the most used rescue method, indicating serious emergencies or hard-to-reach situations, while 12% of individuals successfully navigated out of trouble without official help.
    5. Usage of Garmin inReach requires a paid subscription, which cannot be activated instantly during an emergency.


    Apple has introduced satellite communication on the Apple Watch Ultra 3, while Garmin has been providing satellite-based communication services on models like the Fenix 8 Pro for a longer period. This feature is especially useful for those who enjoy outdoor activities, such as long trekking adventures or sailing. Garmin shares data about the usage of this service in a yearly report.

    Emergency Reports on the Rise

    The report reveals that over 3,000 emergencies were reported through inReach in 2025. There was significant growth in water sports and boating, as well as in emergencies occurring on hiking trails or in mountainous areas. The number of medical emergencies, such as heart-related issues or altitude sickness, has been increasing consistently for several years. Additionally, workplace-related emergencies have also entered the (unfortunate) top ten list of incidents.

    Popular Activities and Their Risks

    Hiking and backpacking represent the largest portion of reported activities, although these sports are likely more common compared to snowmobiling or hunting. In many instances, injuries lead to the need for contacting inReach, followed by vehicle troubles and medical issues not linked to injuries. It makes sense for people to send an SOS when their vehicle breaks down in areas lacking satellite coverage, instead of just waiting for roadside help. Getting lost or facing issues with one’s own boat is also a frequent occurrence.

    Rescue Methods and Subscription Requirements

    Interestingly, the most commonly used rescue method was the helicopter, indicating that these were either very serious emergencies or situations in hard-to-reach areas. In 12% of instances, no official help was needed; instead, individuals managed to navigate out of tricky situations with the assistance of Garmin Response, which can help lost users find their way using GPS coordinates to either a safe location or an occupied mountain hut. However, it’s important to note that using Garmin inReach requires a paid subscription that cannot be activated instantly during an emergency.

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  • iPhone 18 Rumored to Support 5G NTN and Satellite Features

    iPhone 18 Rumored to Support 5G NTN and Satellite Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. iPhone 14 and Apple Watch Ultra 3 allow emergency satellite calls and location sharing.
    2. Future updates may enable Apple Maps usage without cellular service and allow image sharing via satellite messaging.
    3. The upcoming iPhone 18 is expected to feature 5G NTN for improved network coverage.
    4. Apple aims to enhance user experience by maintaining satellite connections even when devices are stored away.
    5. Limited bandwidth from Globalstar may restrict features, with potential changes if Globalstar is acquired by SpaceX’s parent company.


    All iPhones starting from the iPhone 14 and the Apple Watch Ultra 3 (priced from $699 on Amazon) enable users to make emergency calls through satellites. Users can also share their current location with friends and send or receive text messages. Recent reports from Bloomberg indicate that the tech giant in Cupertino is actively enhancing the satellite features of both the iPhone and Apple Watch.

    Future Capabilities

    In the near future, users may have the ability to utilize Apple Maps even without a cellular network, even if they haven’t downloaded offline maps ahead of time. Additionally, satellite messaging might be updated to allow the sending and receiving of images. It is also said that the upcoming iPhone 18 series will be the first to incorporate 5G NTN, which could greatly improve network coverage. Furthermore, Apple intends to provide developers with access to the satellite features of the iPhone through an API, allowing third-party applications to enhance these capabilities.

    User Experience Enhancements

    According to Bloomberg, Apple is striving to better the user experience. In contrast to current models where users need to point their iPhone toward a satellite, future iterations might maintain a connection to the satellite network even if the device is stored in a pocket or a car. However, Apple is said to have no intentions of providing video calls, voice calls, or web browsing through satellite connections as of now.

    Limited Bandwidth Concerns

    This limitation is likely tied to the restricted bandwidth provided by Globalstar, Apple’s satellite partner. Bloomberg also reports that there are ongoing discussions regarding a potential sale of Globalstar to SpaceX’s parent company. If this acquisition occurs, Apple might be able to introduce such features, possibly as part of a subscription service.

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  • Apple Watch Blood Pressure Feature Receives FDA Approval

    Apple Watch Blood Pressure Feature Receives FDA Approval

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nearly half of the US population is affected by hypertension, increasing the risk of serious cardiovascular issues.
    2. Apple’s new Hypertension Notifications feature can identify early signs of hypertension and is set to receive FDA clearance on September 15, 2025.
    3. The feature will be available in about 150 countries and will debut on the Watch Ultra 3 and Series 11, starting at $399.
    4. The Notifications utilize advanced machine learning, analyzing data from over 100,000 participants and tested in a clinical trial with about 2,000 participants.
    5. Apple recommends confirming alerts with a 7-day blood pressure monitoring conducted by a healthcare professional.


    Elevated blood pressure, commonly known as hypertension, is estimated to impact nearly half of the population in the US. Recent studies indicate that receiving a prompt diagnosis can greatly decrease the chances of experiencing serious cardiovascular issues, such as strokes or heart attacks.

    Apple’s New Feature

    Apple has rolled out a feature that can identify early signs of hypertension with its latest flagship Watches, even though it lacked initial regulatory approvals.

    Now, the Hypertension Notifications feature is set to receive official clearance from the FDA, with its launch scheduled for next week, beginning September 15, 2025.

    Global Availability

    The Notifications are expected to be accessible in approximately 150 countries around the globe over time. They have made their debut in the new Watch Ultra 3 and Series 11, which starts at $399 on Amazon. Apple also mentioned that the feature will later be available on the Series 9 and 10 and the Ultra 2 once they update to watchOS 26.

    Apple claims that these Notifications were created using advanced machine learning that analyzed data from more than 100,000 participants across various studies, and were tested in a clinical trial involving around 2,000 participants.

    Important Recommendations

    Despite this innovation, the company advises that any alerts should be confirmed with the results from a 7-day blood pressure monitoring conducted using specialized medical equipment, evaluated by a healthcare professional, to actually diagnose hypertension.

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  • Apple’s Awe Dropping Event Set for September 9

    Apple’s Awe Dropping Event Set for September 9

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple’s iPhone launch event, titled ‘Awe Dropping,’ is scheduled for September 9 at 10 am PT.
    2. The event will be livestreamed on YouTube and the official Apple website, showcasing new products.
    3. Anticipated unveilings include the iPhone 17 series, new Apple Watch models, and updated AirPods Pro.
    4. Color speculations suggest the iPhone 17 Pro may come in orange, dark blue, and dark gray, while the iPhone 17 Air might be available in black, white, light blue, and light gold.
    5. Additional announcements may include the Apple Watch 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple Watch SE 3, and AirPods Pro 3.


    Apple has finally announced the date for its upcoming iPhone launch event. Set for early September, this date aligns with earlier rumors. The tech giant from Cupertino is calling the event ‘Awe Dropping,’ hinting at significant announcements, although many details have already been revealed in leaks over the last few months. The company’s website has also been updated to show the date and time for the event, featuring a unique Apple logo banner.

    Event Details

    The ‘Awe Dropping’ event is scheduled for September 9 at 10 am PT. Viewers can tune in via livestream on YouTube and the official Apple website. Anticipated unveilings include the iPhone 17 series, new models of the Apple Watch and Apple Watch Ultra, updated AirPods Pro, and additional surprises. The site showcases an interactive Apple logo that displays a kind of thermal reactive effect when the mouse hovers over it, although this feature seems to be unresponsive on Windows computers.

    Color Speculations

    The logo presents a Liquid Glass appearance, blending light blue, dark blue, orange, and red hues. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman shared his thoughts on X, indicating that the orange shade in the logo represents the new color option for the iPhone 17 Pro. The light blue is thought to symbolize the iPhone 17 Air, and the term ‘Awe Dropping’ (a pun on jaw-dropping) refers to the impressively slim and lightweight design of the iPhone 17 Air.

    When it comes to color choices, the iPhone 17 Pro is expected to be available in orange (Pantone Papaya), dark blue (Pantone Mood Indigo), and dark gray. In contrast, the iPhone 17 Air is rumored to come in black, white, light blue, and light gold shades.

    Additional Announcements

    The event will likely present the Apple Watch 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and potentially an Apple Watch SE 3. In terms of audio products, the AirPods Pro 3 and a HomePod mini are also anticipated to be revealed.

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  • Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 May Feature Same Processor

    Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 May Feature Same Processor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple will focus on the iPhone 17 series at the September launch event, with the iPhone 17 Air expected to generate the most interest due to its ultra-slim design.
    2. The event will also showcase the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3, following the previous year’s format.
    3. The new smartwatches are not expected to have major upgrades in performance or battery life.
    4. Both smartwatch models will use a processor called ‘T8310’, which is a rebranding of previous chipsets.
    5. The Series 11 and Ultra 3 are likely to maintain the same specifications as their predecessors, including 64 GB of storage and 2 GB of RAM.


    Apple is likely to focus on the iPhone 17 series during its launch event in September. Out of the four expected iPhones, the iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to attract the most interest due to its ultra-slim design. The event will also likely showcase the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3, similar to how the Watch Series 10 and Watch Ultra 2 (current price: $649.99 on Amazon) were featured last year.

    Upcoming Smartwatch Specs

    As reported by MacRumors, the new smartwatches from Apple are not expected to have significant upgrades in performance or battery life. The site mentions that both models are equipped with a processor known internally as ‘T8310’. This name doesn’t provide much insight by itself, but it’s interesting to note that Apple has used the same code for its S9 and S10 chipsets.

    Rebranding Strategy

    In essence, the findings from MacRumors suggest that Apple is choosing to rebrand its smartwatch system-on-chip (SoC) for the third consecutive year. This is similar to what the company did with the Apple S6, S7, and S8. It is also believed that both the Series 11 and Ultra 3 will maintain the same specifications as their predecessors, including 64 GB of storage and 2 GB of RAM, along with features like Bluetooth 5.3, U1 UWB, and Wi-Fi 4 connectivity.

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  • Apple Watch Ultra 3 Leak Reveals Bigger Display Details

    Apple Watch Ultra 3 Leak Reveals Bigger Display Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple Watch Ultra 2, priced at $649, was released in September 2023 and is nearing two years old.
    2. An updated version, the Apple Watch Ultra 3, is expected to be announced on September 9, with a slightly larger OLED display (514 x 422 pixels).
    3. The new display will provide 5.4% more screen space due to design changes, potentially reducing bezels even if the case remains the same.
    4. Anticipated features for the Ultra 3 include satellite connectivity, a newer LTPO3 OLED panel, an integrated 5G modem, and an upgraded Apple S11 chipset.
    5. A basic blood pressure measurement feature may be included, offering warnings for high blood pressure rather than exact values.


    The Apple Watch Ultra 2, starting at $649 on Amazon, was released in September 2023, making it nearly two years old. This September, Apple is anticipated to introduce an updated version of the Apple Watch Ultra. MacRumors has already shared information regarding the screen resolution of this upcoming smartwatch, which was discovered in the code of the new iOS 26 beta.

    Display Enhancements

    The flagship smartwatch’s OLED screen will feature a resolution of 514 x 422 pixels, compared to the 502 x 410 pixels of the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Assuming the pixel density remains the same, the device will offer a display that is 2.9% wider and 2.3% taller, resulting in 5.4% additional screen space. This leak indicates that Apple might make some design changes to the smartwatch. Even if the case design stays the same, the larger display should significantly reduce the size of the bezels.

    Anticipated Features

    The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is likely to be officially revealed on Tuesday, September 9. Besides the slightly larger display, several other features are rumored to be included, such as satellite connectivity for emergency calls, a newer LTPO3 OLED panel that allows for a more frequently updated always-on display, an integrated 5G modem, and an upgraded Apple S11 chipset. There might also be a basic blood pressure measurement feature, which, while it might not provide exact values, could offer warnings for high blood pressure.

    MacRumors believes that these enhancements will make the new smartwatch more appealing to consumers looking for advanced features in wearables.

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  • Apple Watch 3 Ultra Upgrade Disappointment, Analyst Claims

    Apple Watch 3 Ultra Upgrade Disappointment, Analyst Claims

    Amidst ongoing speculations surrounding the forthcoming iPad series, including the possibility of OLED integration, Apple expert Ming-Chi Kuo has introduced a surprising twist concerning the Apple Watch Ultra 3. Initially hinting at a potential delay, Kuo now anticipates the arrival of a new Ultra model in 2024. However, there is a caveat: this upcoming model is unlikely to showcase significant hardware enhancements compared to the Ultra 2. Specific details regarding the Apple Watch Ultra 3 are still shrouded in secrecy, with the only confirmed information being a projected launch in September.

    Apple Watch Ultra 3 to Offer Limited Hardware Advancements

    Kuo’s recent analysis indicates that the Apple Watch Ultra 3 will not feature substantial upgrades.

    Looking beyond the Ultra series, the prospect of a third iteration of the Apple Watch SE hitting the market this year is plausible if Apple adheres to its typical two-year update pattern. The destiny of the successor to the Apple Watch Series 9 remains uncertain. Notably, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg previously suggested a redesigned "Apple Watch X" incorporating functionalities like blood pressure monitoring and sleep apnea detection, although details regarding its release date and official name are still up in the air.

    Potential Feature Overlaps Between Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Series 9 Successor

    Gurman’s proposed features for the Series 9’s successor could potentially find their way to the Apple Watch Ultra 3. With the original Apple Watch approaching its tenth anniversary (unveiled in September 2014 and launched in April 2015), all eyes are set on Apple’s imminent smartwatch revelations.