This year Apple probably releases both a new Apple Watch Ultra and an Apple Watch SE and this is what you can expect from it.
Apple Watch Ultra 3
In 2024, Apple did not release a new version of the Apple Watch Ultra, but only introduced a new color. For the Apple Watch Ultra 3 we expect some exclusive functions that further distinguish the Ultra from the standard Apple Watch series.
5G and satellite communication
Just like the Apple Watch Series 11, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 will probably get a new MediaTek modem. This makes 5G connectivity possible for the first time. In addition, the new Ultra will probably also get satellite connectivity. The Apple Watch Ultra is intended for anyone who often undertakes activities in remote areas, so satellite connectivity is certainly interesting for this target group.
Thanks to satellite connectivity, the Apple Watch can connect to Globalstar satellites to send text messages and location information. This can be limited to emergency situations, or become available for texting such as on the iPhone. It will probably be a function that is exclusive to the Apple Watch Ultra. We do not expect the function to be added quickly to the Apple Watch Series 11.
A new design
With the Apple Watch Series 10, Apple introduced an LTPO3 OLED display that is larger and brighter than that of the Apple Watch Ultra. It also has a higher renewal frequency, which makes a live ticking second hand possible. Apple may be implementing these improvements this year to the new Apple Watch Ultra.
The back of the Apple Watch Series 10 has also been redesigned and is now made of metal instead of ceramics. He also has a larger charging coil and an integrated antenna. All changes that we will probably also see at the Apple Watch Ultra 3.
Health Features
Apple is working on a function for blood pressure monitoring and there is a chance that it will be introduced in the Apple Watch Series 11 and the Apple Watch Ultra 3. But there are also some developmental problems that may delay the introduction.
If the function comes, it will not take exact systolic and diastolic measurements, but instead check for hypertension. If this condition is detected, the Apple Watch Ultra gives a warning. You can then pass on that warning to a doctor for additional tests. It works in a similar way if the Exhale (atrium fibrillation) in the Apple Watch.
Watchos 12
Watchos 12 will appear in September and is expected to have some design changes. We expect visionos-like changes in the design that match the changes in iOS 19, but there will be no complete overhaul.
Apple may also introduce a new set of functions based on Apple Intelligence. These functions do not run directly on the Apple Watch because there is not enough memory and storage space to support this. But a connected iPhone is powerful enough for these Apple Intelligence functions. There are also rumors that Apple is working on a new version of the Health app. This way you get personal health advice to help you with a healthier lifestyle.
Apple Watch SE 2025
It has been three years since Apple brought a new Apple Watch SE to the market. This year we expect a new version with probably a faster chip and a number of design changes.
Design and screen
There were rumors that Apple was working on a colorful, hard plastic housing for the next Apple Watch SE, but it seems that those plans have been deleted. The Apple design team did not like the plastic watch and the housing turned out not to be cheaper than aluminum to make.
If that is the case, the next Apple Watch SE is made of aluminum and will look roughly the same as the current model. He probably gets a larger display and thinner edges. The current Apple Watch SE is available in the sizes 40 mm and 44 mm and is based on the Apple Watch Series 6. We expect the new version of the SE 41 mm and 45 mm to get like the series 7. That looks new and the Apple Watch se is still distinguished from the series 11.
The new Apple Watch se may also be provided with an always-on screen. This is something we have never seen on an Apple Watch SE, but now it is probably affordable enough to add.
Faster chip
The current Apple Watch SE has an S8 chip based on the A13 Bionic chip, but the Apple Watch Series 10 uses an S10 chip. The series 11 may get an even faster chip, which means that Apple may use the current S10 for the Apple Watch SE.
A faster chip naturally improves the speed. But it also makes it possible to process some SIRI requests on the device itself. Siri currently has no access to health information on the Apple Watch SE, but it may change if the SE 3 gets a new chip. Apple may also add an ultra wideband chip to the next Apple Watch SE. This also makes accurate search and HomePod integration possible.
Health Features
The Apple Watch SE has no ECG or temperature detection options and also offers no sleep apnea detection. It is possible that at least one of these functions will be added to the SE 3 this year. Sleep apnea is most likely, because no extra hardware is needed for that.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 and SE 2025
The Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple Watch Series 11 and the Apple Watch SE 3 are probably presented in September 2025. We expect that they will be on the market at the same time as the new iPhone 17 models.
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