Apple Launches Apple Watch Series 10 and Updates Ultra 2 with New Color and Features

Source: Apple

In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Apple Watch, Apple unveiled its most advanced watch yet, the Apple Watch Series 10, at its September 2024 iPhone event. This new addition to the lineup features a striking redesign, the largest display ever on an Apple Watch, and new health-tracking capabilities. Alongside this launch, Apple also announced updates to the Apple Watch Ultra 2, though no Apple Watch Ultra 3 was revealed. Both watches introduce significant enhancements in usability, health features, and environmental responsibility.

Apple Watch Series 10: Bigger, Smarter, and Thinner

The Apple Watch Series 10 is a showcase of cutting-edge technology wrapped in a sleek, lightweight design. Boasting a 30% larger screen than its predecessor, Series 10’s wide-angle OLED display makes viewing content even easier, no matter the angle. With a more rounded edge and thin profile, the Series 10 is 10% thinner than previous models, improving comfort for daily wear. It’s available in a beautiful jet black aluminum finish, polished with silicon nanoparticles for a reflective, sleek look.

The larger display improves readability across apps like Messages, News, and Mail, allowing users to view more content at a glance. Additionally, the wider screen enhances typing accuracy, making interactions with the watch smoother and more intuitive.

Health Features: Sleep Apnea Detection and More

A standout feature of the Apple Watch Series 10 is its ability to detect sleep apnea. The watch uses its accelerometer to track small wrist movements that indicate interruptions in breathing during sleep, a key sign of sleep apnea. Notifications will alert users to potential apnea events, prompting them to seek medical advice if necessary. Although pending FDA approval, Apple expects clearance soon, making this feature available across more than 150 countries. Importantly, this feature will not be limited to the Series 10, but will also roll out to the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2.

In addition to sleep apnea detection, the Series 10 continues to offer advanced health tracking, including metrics for heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood oxygen levels. WatchOS 11 enhances these features with the Vitals app, which provides quick insights into overnight health metrics.

Faster Charging and Speaker Enhancements

The Apple Watch Series 10 introduces the fastest charging speeds in the Apple Watch lineup, reaching 80% charge in just 30 minutes. This allows users to wear the watch day and night, tracking their sleep and daily activities with minimal downtime. Alongside this, Apple has redesigned the internal speaker system, enabling users to play audio directly from the watch. Whether it’s podcasts, music, or audiobooks, users can listen without needing additional accessories.

Water Depth and Temperature Sensing for Water Sports

The Apple Watch Series 10 is ideal for water sports enthusiasts. It features a depth sensor that can measure down to 6 meters, as well as a water temperature sensor that records environmental conditions in real-time. Apple’s new Tides app complements these features by providing tidal forecasts for various coastlines, ideal for surfers, divers, and sailors. With these updates, Apple Watch Series 10 enhances its role as a versatile tool for athletes and adventurers alike.

Apple Watch Ultra 2: New Satin Black Finish and Milanese Loop Band

Although Apple did not release a Watch Ultra 3 this year, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 received a notable update. The Ultra 2 is now available in a striking satin black finish, created through a custom blasting process and diamond-like carbon vapor deposition. This finish not only enhances the rugged design of the Ultra but also offers a more refined look, appealing to both adventurers and those seeking style.

In addition to the new color, Apple introduced a titanium Milanese loop band, inspired by mesh historically used by divers. The band is corrosion-resistant and designed for water sports, further cementing the Ultra 2’s reputation as a watch for extreme conditions.

WatchOS 11 brings additional software enhancements to the Ultra 2, including sleep apnea detection, the Vitals app, and the Tides app for monitoring water conditions. The Ultra 2 also benefits from audio playback directly through its built-in speaker, as well as voice isolation technology that improves call quality in noisy environments.

Environmentally Conscious Design

Apple has emphasized its commitment to sustainability with both the Apple Watch Series 10 and Ultra 2. The Series 10 features recycled aluminum, while the Ultra 2 is made from 95% recycled titanium. Apple’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 is evident in these watches, as both models use eco-friendly materials without compromising on quality or performance.

Pricing and Availability

Both the Apple Watch Series 10 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 are now available for pre-order, with shipping beginning on September 20:

• Apple Watch Series 10 starts at $399.
• Apple Watch Ultra 2 remains at $799, with the new satin black finish and Milanese loop band available at the same price point.

Final Thoughts

Apple’s 2024 Apple Watch lineup marks a significant leap forward in both technology and design. The Apple Watch Series 10 redefines smartwatch capabilities with its large display, sleep apnea detection, and faster charging, while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 introduces a more refined aesthetic alongside its rugged design. Together, these updates demonstrate Apple’s ongoing commitment to innovation, user health, and environmental sustainability.