Rumors Suggest the New Apple Watch Ultra 3 Is Set for a Long-Awaited Upgrade
With the public beta of iOS 26 now available, clues about Apple’s upcoming products, especially the rugged Apple Watch Ultra 3, are emerging ahead of the company’s likely September event. This year’s lineup may include the Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and the iPhone 17,according to CNet.
The iOS 26 beta reveals new screen specs for the Ultra 3, showing a slightly larger display with a resolution of 422x514 pixels, up from the Ultra 2’s 410x502. This increase suggests slimmer bezels and a sharper screen without adding bulk, staying true to Apple’s goal of maximizing screen space.
Performance-wise, the Ultra 3 is expected to upgrade from the S9 chip in the Ultra 2 to the new S11 chip, which will likely also power the Series 11. This upgrade would bring faster speeds, better efficiency, and support for new features such as enhanced GPS, satellite connectivity, and improved health monitoring. Apple’s AI-powered Workout Buddy, introduced with WatchOS 26, may be further integrated, offering personalized fitness coaching.
One exciting rumor is the addition of satellite connectivity, enabling emergency messaging and location sharing even in areas without cellular coverage. This would build on existing safety features like emergency SOS, fall detection, and car crash detection, especially useful for outdoor enthusiasts and those living in remote areas. The Ultra 3 may also get 5G support, a step up from the current LTE-only connectivity.
Health features are also rumored to expand, with blood pressure tracking in testing stages and blood glucose monitoring expected further down the road. Apple is reportedly developing an AI health initiative called "Project Mulberry" to provide personalized health insights, though this may debut closer to 2026.
Battery life is likely to improve thanks to a more efficient S11 chip and display, potentially extending usage to nearly three days or more in low-power mode. Faster charging introduced with Series 10 may also appear in the Ultra 3.
Pricing is expected to remain at $799, with a release around the same time as the new iPhones in early September.
Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is rumored to be thicker and heavier than its predecessors, potentially offering a larger battery and improved Adaptive Power management for longer daily use. It may also feature a bigger camera bump with a 48-megapixel telephoto lens and a movable lens supporting up to 8x optical zoom, marking a significant camera upgrade. Dual video recording from both front and rear cameras is expected, ideal for interviews or reaction videos.
Overall, Apple’s fall lineup looks poised to bring meaningful upgrades in design, performance, health, and connectivity.
