Apple is set to release its highly anticipated Apple Watch Ultra 3 in September 2025, promising significant upgrades in connectivity, health monitoring, and display technology. The new model is expected to feature 5G connectivity and satellite-based messaging, making it a more independent communication tool for users in remote areas. Health technology advancements include potential blood pressure monitoring and enhanced sensor accuracy thanks to the new S10 chip. The display is rumored to be 10% larger, improving visibility for fitness metrics and maps. Apple is likely to maintain the $799 starting price, positioning the Ultra 3 as a flagship model for rugged and high-performance wearables.
Major Upgrades in Connectivity
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to introduce 5G connectivity and satellite messaging, significantly expanding its usefulness in areas with limited network coverage. This dual advancement is ideal for hikers, adventurers, and those working in remote environments. Satellite messaging, similar to the emergency SOS feature on recent iPhones, will allow users to send basic texts without cellular or Wi-Fi service. Combined with faster 5G performance, this shift indicates Apple’s ambition to make the Watch Ultra a more independent communication tool.
Health Technology Advancements
Apple’s push into health technology continues with the Ultra 3, which may feature blood pressure monitoring for the first time. While not offering exact systolic/diastolic numbers like a medical cuff, it may detect trends indicating elevated blood pressure over time and alert users accordingly. The new S10 chip is expected to power the Ultra 3, supporting enhanced sensor accuracy and lower power consumption. There’s also speculation about expanded temperature-sensing capabilities, potentially tied to stress or recovery metrics in fitness tracking.
Display and Design Enhancements
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is rumored to have a slightly larger 2.12-inch display, about 10% bigger than the current model. This enhancement will improve visibility for fitness metrics and maps, aligning with the Ultra’s appeal to outdoor athletes and explorers. While microLED display technology has been delayed until at least 2026, users can expect the continuation of Apple’s high-end OLED panels with potential tweaks to peak brightness and outdoor readability.
Price and Release Timing
Apple is expected to maintain the $799 starting price for the Ultra 3, making it the flagship model for rugged and high-performance wearables. The watch will likely be announced alongside the iPhone 17, Apple Watch Series 11, and Apple Watch SE 3 at Apple’s traditional September keynote. Availability is expected to begin within 1–2 weeks of the announcement, with preorders potentially opening on the day of the reveal.
