At its fall 2025 event, Apple launched three new Apple Watch models, including the flagship Series 11, the affordable SE 3, and the Ultra 3, which is tailored for outdoor and extreme sports. These three models are expected to be officially launched on September 19. The overall upgrade can be summarized as “stronger health detection, more stable connection and longer-lasting power.” In particular, high blood pressure detection, 5G support and Ultra 3’s satellite communication are the most attractive highlights of this wave of updates.
Apple Watch Series 11
If you’re an iPhone user, the Apple Watch Series 11 is practically a no-brainer. Its slim, comfortable design continues its trend, available in Obsidian Black, Silver, Rose Gold, and Space Gray. It’s made of aluminum or titanium, with the aluminum model featuring reinforced Ion-X glass and the titanium model featuring a sapphire crystal for increased durability. It features an on-screen Retina display with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits. Available in 42mm and 46mm sizes, it’s powered by an S10 dual-core processor and a W3 wireless chip, along with support for 5G and second-generation Ultra Wideband.
The Series 11 introduces a “Sleep Score” feature that combines heart rate, blood oxygen, and body temperature data to comprehensively analyze nighttime activity and provide improvement suggestions, helping users track and optimize their sleep quality.
Notable health features include hypertension detection and the newly introduced Sleep Score, which, combined with existing heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring, provide a more comprehensive snapshot of health. The watch boasts a battery life of approximately 24 hours and supports fast charging, giving it approximately 8 hours of use in 15 minutes. With prices ranging from $399 for the aluminum model to $699 for the titanium model, it’s an attractive option for those who want a comprehensive experience while remaining budget-conscious.
Apple Watch SE 3
If you’re on a tight budget or want a solid Apple Watch without breaking the bank, the SE 3 is a clear fit. It retains most of the practical features at a more accessible price. Available in 40mm and 44mm diameters, the SE 3 features a midnight and starlight aluminum case. Apple has finally brought the “Instant Display” feature to the entry-level model, making the watch display more convenient for everyday use. The hardware utilizes the same S10 chip as the Series 10 (meaning a noticeable performance boost), along with sensors like second-generation optical heart rate and blood oxygen saturation. It also adds sleep score, wrist temperature monitoring, sleep apnea notifications, and supports hypertension detection.
The SE 3 debuts “Gesture Control,” allowing users to perform actions by tapping with two fingers or twisting their wrist. This makes everyday interactions more intuitive and streamlined, giving even an entry-level watch a sense of efficiency and intelligence.
One of the most interesting user experience updates on the SE 3 is gesture control (such as tapping with two fingers), which makes certain operations more intuitive. Battery life is approximately 18 hours, and fast charging provides 8 hours in 15 minutes. Pricing starts at T$249 (Wi-Fi version) and $299 for the 5G model. Overall, it’s a practical and value-for-money choice.
Apple Watch Ultra 3
For frequent adventures in the mountains, at sea, or in other environments with unreliable internet, the Ultra 3 is the perfect choice. While retaining its rugged titanium exterior, it achieves a larger display with a narrower bezel. It utilizes LTPO3+ wide-viewing angle OLED and supports an ultra-low refresh rate of 1Hz, achieving a balance between power conservation and real-time information. The Ultra 3 boasts advanced sensors and durability, including a third-generation optical heart rate sensor, blood oxygen sensor, body temperature sensor, depth sensor, and water temperature sensor. It is IP6X dustproof and WR100 waterproof. Equipped with the S10 and W3, the battery life is further increased to approximately 42 hours, extending this to approximately 72 hours with Low Power Mode enabled, and a 15-minute quick charge provides approximately 12 hours of additional use.
The Ultra 3 features ultimate connectivity, precise dual-frequency GPS positioning, high-speed 5G transmission, and new satellite communication, ensuring emergency assistance even in the mountains or at sea, enhancing outdoor safety.
Connectivity is another key asset: dual-frequency GPS plus 5G, along with new satellite communication (which allows SOS transmission even without a mobile network and is provided free for two years by Apple), are extremely useful for users who need self-protection and communication backup. The Ultra 3 also offers exclusive watch faces (such as Flow, Exactograph, and a “Waypoint” watch face with a real-time compass), making it more convenient for professional outdoor guides and nighttime use. The reference price starts at $799.
All three Apple Watch models run the latest watchOS 26 and can be paired with an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone to unlock a range of AI-powered features, such as the “Workout Buddy” voice assistant for workouts, instant translation of messages, and a call waiting assistant and call screening in the phone app.
This year, the Apple Watch focuses on health, battery life, and connectivity. Features include high blood pressure monitoring and sleep scores to enhance daily management; 5G and satellite communications ensure outdoor safety; and an AI assistant and longer-lasting battery life bring comprehensive upgrades.
Simply put, the focus for 2025 isn’t a complete overhaul, but rather making health monitoring (especially high blood pressure), mobile and satellite communications, and battery management more practical and useful. If you’re looking for the most balanced experience, the Series 11 is a solid choice; if you want to save money without sacrificing features, the SE 3 is the most practical; and if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, rescuer, or extreme sports enthusiast, the Ultra 3 is practically the most comprehensive tool-oriented smartwatch on the market.