Apple Watch 10 and Watch Ultra 2 Get Major Visual Updates

Apple’s latest launch event was not just about the iPhones. The Cupertino giant also talked about its latest set of smartwatches, Watch 10 and Watch Ultra 2, both of which have gone through a visual overhaul.

Apple Watch 10

This new generation Watch claims the title for the largest display in Apple’s wearable lineup, surpassing even the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Remarkably, it also manages to be the thinnest Apple Watch to date, striking a balance between screen real estate and sleek design.

The display upgrade is significant, offering up to 30% more screen space compared to non-Ultra models. Apple has also dramatically improved the refresh rate, increasing it from once per minute to once per second. This enhancement enables the Always On Display to feature a ticking second hand, with new watch faces designed to showcase this capability. For users who rely on the Always On Display, the screen is now up to 40% brighter when viewed at an angle.

Charging speeds have seen a notable boost, addressing a common pain point for smartwatch users. The new model also introduces a titanium version, bringing a premium material option previously reserved for higher-end models.

The larger display offers practical benefits beyond aesthetics, allowing apps to display more information and improving the typing experience on the watch face.

Despite the significant upgrades to display size and refresh rate, Apple has managed to maintain the battery life of its latest smartwatch at 18 hours per charge. This means users will still need to charge their devices daily.

However, Apple has addressed this potential inconvenience by significantly improving charging speeds. The new model can reach 80% battery capacity in just 30 minutes, a notable improvement from the previous 45-minute charging time. For added convenience, the watch supports both MagSafe and Qi 2 charging standards.

Apple is discontinuing stainless steel as a material option for this generation of Apple Watch. Instead, the company is introducing titanium across the lineup. This change results in a watch that is 20% lighter than its steel counterpart would have been. The titanium version will be available in three color options: Natural, Gold, and Slate Gray.

To complement this material change, Apple has updated its Milanese loop and Link Bracelet accessories to match the new titanium finish. As with previous high-end models, the display is protected by scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.

Apple has significantly enhanced the water resistance capabilities of its latest smartwatch. The device now features an advanced depth gauge that activates automatically upon submersion, capable of tracking dives up to 6 meters (20 feet) deep. This new feature includes a dive timer and records the maximum depth reached. Additionally, the watch incorporates a water temperature sensor, further expanding its utility for water enthusiasts.

Health monitoring capabilities have also seen improvements. The Watch Series 10 introduces sleep apnea detection, providing users with morning reports detailing breathing disturbances during sleep. Every 30 days, the watch analyzes accumulated data to assess the user’s risk of sleep apnea, offering valuable insights into long-term sleep health.

The new speaker module is 30% smaller yet powerful enough to function as a standalone speaker. This allows users to listen to music or podcasts directly from the watch without headphones. The speaker also supports voice calls, with the watch’s advanced chipset leveraging AI-powered noise cancellation to enhance call quality.

The latest Apple S10 chip boasts a 4-core neural engine, enabling on-device processing for certain tasks. This advanced AI technology also powers smart features like displaying relevant widgets and selecting optimal background photos.

The highly anticipated smartwatch will hit stores in a fortnight, on September 20. Pricing starts at $400 for the GPS model, while those seeking cellular connectivity will need to shell out an additional $100.

Apple Watch Ultra 2

Apple has introduced a fresh aesthetic for its high-end smartwatch, unveiling the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in a new Satin Black finish. This matte appearance is achieved through a proprietary process that enhances the watch’s scratch resistance.

Despite the new look, the Ultra 2 maintains its titanium construction, utilizing 95% recycled grade 5 titanium – a feature shared with the Titanium Series 10. The watch’s durability is further reinforced by a zirconia back plate.

To complement this new colorway, Apple has designed a Titanium Milanese Loop band. Inspired by and engineered for scuba divers, this accessory adds a touch of rugged elegance to the Ultra 2. Owners of the original Ultra 2 need not feel left out, as Apple is offering a version of this new band that matches the natural titanium finish of their devices.

The Satin Black Apple Watch Ultra 2 is now available for pre-order, with a scheduled release date of September 20. Pricing remains consistent with previous Ultra models at $800, which includes GPS and cellular connectivity as standard.