Rumors swirl about potential rule-breaking by Apple with the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 3
Apple Watch Ultra 3: A Major Upgrade Expected in September 2025
After a two-year gap since the last model, Apple is set to release the Apple Watch Ultra 3 in September 2025, according to recent reports [1][3][4][5]. The upcoming smartwatch is anticipated to launch alongside the iPhone 17 series, with a fall event scheduled around early September 2025.
The design of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to remain similar to its predecessors but with a slightly larger and more energy-efficient display. It may employ microLED or LTPO technology for improved visuals [3][4].
Technical upgrades for the Ultra 3 include the new S11 chip for enhanced performance and power efficiency [4], 5G cellular connectivity enabling independent use without an iPhone [1][4], satellite messaging for offline communication [3], and health features such as blood pressure monitoring for the first time on an Apple Watch [3][4]. Additionally, rumors suggest the inclusion of an onboard camera and AI-powered fitness tools [3].
The delay or skip of the 2024 model in favour of this more substantial update has raised expectations for significant enhancements in the Ultra 3 this year, rather than minor iterative changes [1][2][3].
Meanwhile, the beta version of the watchOS 26 reveals a larger display for supported formats, with a resolution of 422 x 514 pixels [6]. However, it is unlikely that this new display resolution will belong to the Apple Watch Series 10.
In 2025, we expect to see the release of both the Apple Watch Series 11 and the latest Apple Watch SE. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is likely to be released next month, although the exact date for the Apple Special Event has yet to be confirmed.
The FDA is currently investigating Whoop for its Blood Pressure Insights feature, questioning the boundary between wellness features and medical ones [7]. If high blood pressure detection is included in the Apple Watch Ultra 3, it could fall into the dubious semi-medical category, potentially triggering regulatory attention.
In the realm of Apple's audio devices, the AirPods Max have been unchanged for five years, similar to the AirPods Pro [8]. A USB-C version of the AirPods Max has been released, but it does not have any significant changes in audio performance [8]. Apple has not touched the AirPods Max unless it was necessary [9].
References:
- Apple Watch Ultra 3 Delayed or Skipped? What We Know So Far
- Apple Watch Ultra 3: What We Expect from the Upcoming Model
- Apple Watch Ultra 3: Everything We Know So Far
- Apple Watch Ultra 3: Release Date, Price, and Features
- Apple Watch Ultra 3: Rumors, Leaks, and Expectations
- watchOS 26 Beta Reveals Larger Display for Apple Watch Ultra 3
- FDA Investigates Whoop for Blood Pressure Insights Feature
- Apple AirPods Max: Unchanged for Five Years
- Apple AirPods Max: A Look at the Design and Performance
In the coming months, Apple's smart-home devices and gadgets might receive upgrades to complement the launch of the Apple Watch Ultra 3, especially since the new smartwatch is anticipated to incorporate health features like blood pressure monitoring. With the expected release of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 in September 2025, technology enthusiasts might see various advancements in Apple's wearable technology lineup.
