For years, the Apple Watch has been on a clear trajectory, evolving from a simple smartphone companion to a powerful, proactive device for health and wellness. Today, Apple didn’t just stay the course; they widened the lead with an impressive refresh of the entire lineup. The Series 11, SE 3, and Ultra 3 are here, and each one brings something significant to the table.
Apple Watch Series 11: The Doctor is On Your Wrist
The flagship Series 11 continues to be the perfect watch for most people, and this year it gets smarter about your long-term health. The standout feature is a new ability to detect and notify you of potential hypertension (high blood pressure).
This isn’t about taking a one-off reading like a blood pressure cuff. Instead, the watch uses its optical heart sensor to analyze patterns over time. Since hypertension is often called a “silent killer” with no obvious symptoms, getting a quiet nudge from your watch to go see a doctor could be genuinely lifesaving. This is the kind of meaningful innovation that sets Apple apart from competitors who often focus on counting steps.
It also introduces a sleep score, which finally gives users a simple, digestible number to quantify their night’s rest. While apps like AutoSleep have offered this for years, having a native, science-backed score built right in is a huge win. Add in a bump to 24-hour battery life, 5G, and a more durable screen, and the Series 11 is a formidable upgrade.
Apple Watch SE 3: It Gets Even Better
I always recommend the Apple Watch SE to friends and family as the best bang for your buck. The new SE 3 makes that recommendation even easier. It’s getting an Always-On display, a feature whose absence was the single biggest reason to pay more for a premium model. Now, you can glance at the time without that conspicuous wrist flick.
By inheriting the powerful S10 chip, it also gets features like wrist temperature sensing and sleep apnea notifications. This is classic Apple: today’s premium features become tomorrow’s standard. At $249, the SE 3 is no longer just the “entry-level” Apple Watch; it’s the Apple Watch most people should probably buy.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 Now Supports Satellite Connectivity
When the Apple Watch Ultra launched, it was a clear shot at dedicated adventure watch brands like Garmin. The Ultra 3 doubles down on that ambition. The headline feature is satellite connectivity. Yes, really. If you’re hiking in the backcountry with no cell signal, you can now send emergency texts, update your Find My location for loved ones, and call for help. This is a massive feature for anyone who takes their adventures seriously, turning the Ultra from a tough smartwatch into a genuine piece of survival gear.
Combine that with an even larger display, a beefier 42-hour battery, and the new health features from the Series 11, and the Ultra 3 is a beast. It’s not for everyone, but for its target audience of athletes and explorers, it’s now more compelling than ever.
Price and Availability:
- Apple Watch SE 3 starts at just $249.
- Apple Watch Series 11 starts at $399.
- Apple Watch Ultra 3 starts at $799.
All three models are available for pre-order today and will be available on September 19th.
