Apple’s “Awe-Dropping” event on September 9 is just around the corner, and that means one thing: new hardware. Among the expected product reveals is the Apple Watch Ultra 3—Apple’s rugged, sport-focused smartwatch finally getting a long-awaited upgrade.
Having gone two years without a refresh, the Ultra 3 promises enough upgrades to make it worth serious consideration. Here are five compelling reasons to upgrade.
1) Bigger, Brighter Display—Now the Largest in the Lineup
Fans of the Ultra series have often praised its screen—but Apple’s Series 10 technically matched it in size. That changes with the Ultra 3.
- Leaked iOS 26 assets suggest a display resolution bump from 410×502 to 422×514, implying a larger visible area with the same 49mm case thanks to slimmer bezels.
- That matches Beta indicators for a 1.98-inch screen.
- Tech review sites, like Tom’s Guide, add that the Ultra 3 will reclaim its crown with “the largest Apple Watch display yet.”
The result is more space for maps, metrics, and wrist-based typing—without sacrificing durability or design.
2) New S11 SiP Delivers Smarter, Leaner Performance
Two generations with just incremental silicon improvements makes the arrival of the S11 chip a potential game-changer.
- MacRumors leaks confirm that Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3 all use the same architectural foundation as S9/S10, meaning codependency between models and lower development cost.
- Though the raw performance gains may be modest, efficiency is expected to improve, opening up possibilities for next-gen features like AI and health monitoring.
The S11 likely frees up battery, sensor and connectivity headroom—without changing the watch’s rugged design.
3) Expanded Connectivity: 5G RedCap and Satellite Support
Apple continues its push beyond LTE—and the Ultra series is getting its first real upgrade in this department.
- 5G arrives via MediaTek-powered RedCap connectivity, delivering near-cellular performance with low power use.
- Satellite messaging adds another layer of independence for remote adventurers—text communication even when there’s no signal.
Together, these are major steps in making the Ultra 3 a truly standalone, always-reachable outdoor tool.
4) Health Sensing Breakthrough: Blood Pressure Monitoring
Apple’s wearables have always leaned heavily into health, but the Ultra 3 may bring a first-ever functionality—on-wrist blood pressure tracking.
- Industry insiders have long expected this to debut in wrist-wearable form, and recent Bloomberg sources suggest Apple is ready—even if regulatory hurdles persist.
- Don’t expect full cuff-level accuracy, but trend alerts and early risk flags could be the hook—especially if Apple keeps pushing for preventive health tracking.
It’d be an extension of Fitbit-like heart insights—but wrapped in Apple’s unmatched sensor package and ecosystem.
5) Rugged Design Refined with Faster Charging and Better Battery
Apple’s Ultra lineup has always been built for endurance—but Ultra 3 looks like a meaningful refinement.
- The Series 10 introduced a redesigned rear back panel—metal in place of ceramic—paving the way for much faster charging. That tech may now be in the Ultra 3.
- Combined with efficient silicon, improved battery capacity, and watchOS 26 features like Workout Buddy, charging and longevity will both get a boost.
- The enhanced LTPO3 OLED display, brighter and more power-efficient, only helps.
The final package feels like a smoother, smarter Ultra—without sacrificing its survival-ready ethos.
Final Thoughts
If you skipped the Ultra 2, the Ultra 3 may be your best upgrade yet. More screen, better connectivity, enhanced health scanning, and battery improvements give real reason to upgrade now.
For current Ultra owners, the decision depends on how much you value features like 5G, hypertension tracking and speedier charging. Those coming from Series 10 or earlier? This model may feel like a generational leap.