Apple unveiled three new Apple Watch models Tuesday-the Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3-introducing features such as hypertension monitoring, 5G connectivity, satellite messaging, and enhanced sleep tracking. The updates mark Apple's latest push into health, safety, and AI-driven features as wearables play a growing role in both lifestyle and medical monitoring.
The Apple Watch Series 11, starting at $399, is the first in the lineup with 5G connectivity, designed to deliver stronger coverage with lower battery drain than previous LTE models. Apple said the device offers "up to 24 hours" of battery life and features a slimmer design with Ion-X glass, which the company claims is twice as scratch-resistant as earlier models.
For the first time, the watch can monitor for signs of hypertension. Using the optical heart sensor, the Series 11 collects and analyzes vascular responses over a rolling 30-day period. If consistent signs of elevated blood pressure appear, the watch notifies the wearer.
The Series 11 also debuts a Sleep Score feature, calculating rest quality by tracking duration, consistency, wake episodes, and time spent in each sleep stage. Alongside its health metrics, the watch supports Apple's new live translation feature when paired with iOS 26, broadening its communication functions.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3, priced from $799, targets outdoor and endurance users. It is Apple's first watch to support satellite connectivity, enabling users in remote areas without cellular service to message contacts, share locations via Find My, and reach emergency services. With a battery life of up to 42 hours-72 in Low Power Mode-it offers the longest runtime of any Apple Watch. The device also carries the largest, brightest display yet, thanks to wide-angle OLED and LTPO3 technology.
The Apple Watch SE 3, starting at $249, provides a more affordable entry point with notable upgrades. Powered by the new S10 chip, it supports always-on display for the first time and gesture controls like double-tap and wrist flick. The SE 3 adds wrist temperature sensing for retrospective ovulation tracking and now includes fast charging, while maintaining an 18-hour battery life.
