In addition to the launch of the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Watch SE 2, the American tech giant unveiled the rugged Apple Watch Ultra during its Far Out event today. For starters, the Ultra upgrade offers a significantly revamped and strong 49mm titanium case, in addition to a completely revamped digital crown and a new customisable action button on the left. Apple says this button can be customised to open workouts or even set waypoints on the built-in compass.
Moreover, the Apple Watch Ultra uses three built-in microphones for superior noise reduction, especially while outdoors. The company is also making the smartwatch accessible via gloves, which is a major requirement for deep sea divers and even during outdoor activities. With up to 2,000 nits of brightness and the ability to completely darken the watch face with the flick of the digital crown, the Apple Watch Ultra is everything one could have asked for from a rugged outdoor-oriented wearable.
Also Read: Apple Watch Series 8 and Watch SE 2 officially launched: features, price, availability
Apple says the Watch Ultra can run for up to 36 hours on a full charge, while the newly announced low-power mode can push it to up to 60 hours. Remarkably, the smartwatch will continue to provide GPS and heart-rate tracking even when it’s in battery-saving mode. Customers won’t get to pick between GPS and Cellular models here, as all Apple Watch Ultra variants come with Cellular built-in, ensuring the wearer stays connected regardless of where they are.
There’s WR 100 water resistance, making it suitable for water sports, in addition to EN 13319 certification for scuba diving (up to 40m). GPS has been improved significantly thanks to the inclusion of the new L5 frequency. Hikers will appreciate the presence of trackback, allowing them to get back on track when they get lose their way. Another crucial safety feature is the 86-decibel built-in siren to let people find you when you’re lost.
Apple Watch Ultra price, availability
The new premium Apple Watch model will be available in Alpine, Trail, and Ocean bands starting September 23, a week after the Series 8 and Watch SE 2 arrive on the shelves. This watch will cost Rs 89900 in the Indian market, while in the US the Apple Watch Ultra will start from $799 (Rs 63,600). It is likely that Apple may only produce limited quantities of the Watch Ultra given that it caters to a niche market, though the company didn’t offer any information on that front.