Apple Unveils Three New Apple Watch Models with Advanced Health and Connectivity Features

Apple introduced its latest Apple Watch lineup-Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3-during its September 9 event in Cupertino, debuting 5G connectivity, enhanced health sensors, and a thinner design for its flagship model.

The announcements underscore Apple’s commitment to expanding health monitoring and on-device intelligence across its smartwatch range, aligning with growing consumer demand for comprehensive wellness tools.

Key Announcements

  • Apple Watch Series 11 gains 5G cellular, a brighter OLED display, and a design 10% thinner than Series 9 while supporting hypertension alerts and sleep-quality insights.
  • Apple Watch Ultra 3 features built-in two-way satellite connectivity for emergency messaging off-grid, a 42-hour battery life, the largest LTPO3 OLED display yet, and new hypertension notifications validated in clinical trials.
  • Apple Watch SE 3 brings advanced health metrics-sleep score, retrospective ovulation estimates, sleep apnea and hypertension notifications-and an Always-On display powered by the new S10 chip, all at a lower entry price point.

Expanded Health and Safety Insights

Apple Watch Series 11 and SE 3 both introduce hypertension notifications by analyzing blood-vessel response over 30-day periods, aiming to alert users to undiagnosed high blood pressure. The Series 11 also debuts an improved Sleep Score feature that factors in duration, consistency, and sleep-stage data.

Ultra 3 extends Apple’s health suite with a dedicated hypertension sensor and an enhanced Sleep Score, while adding Workout Buddy powered by Apple Intelligence for in-workout coaching.

Connectivity and Durability Enhancements

The Series 11 and SE 3 adopt 5G cellular for faster data and broader coverage. Ultra 3 further supports two-way satellite messaging, offering Emergency SOS without a cellular plan for up to two years and full messaging capabilities with a plan. All three models ship with watchOS 26, featuring Liquid Glass watch faces, a wrist flick gesture for easy interactions, and Smart Stack enhancements.

Design and Environmental Commitments

Series 11 is 10% thinner and lighter, with a larger, brighter display. Ultra 3 employs LTPO3 OLED with 24% thinner borders, boosting active area without increasing case size. Apple emphasizes environmental responsibility: Ultra 3 uses 40% recycled materials, including recycled cobalt in its battery and titanium case, with fully fiber-based packaging.

Pre-orders open today, with availability beginning September 19 across Apple’s online and retail channels.