On September 9, Apple is scheduled to take place its annual hardware launch event. The event, dubbed “Awe Dropping,” is anticipated to feature the iPhone 17 series, which includes the recently released iPhone 17 Air. But it doesn’t stop there. It is also rumored that the Cupertino-based tech giant will update its smartwatch lineup by releasing new models in all three lineups: the Apple Watch SE 3, the Apple Watch Series 11, and the Watch Ultra 3. Similar to prior years, Apple has kept quiet regarding potential improvements to its most recent smartwatches. Luckily, the rumor mill has provided plenty of information.
Here is all you need to know about the Apple Watch Series 11, Watch Ultra 3, and Watch SE 3 in the run-up to Apple’s “Awe Dropping” event on September 9—all in less than 10 days.
Apple Watch Series 11
There won’t be any significant design modifications made to the Apple Watch Series 11 over the Series 10. It is anticipated that the flat-edged design with curved glass housing an LTPO panel on top will remain the same for the 42mm and 46mm versions. Iterative improvements will be made underneath, nevertheless. The S11 SoC that powers the Apple Watch Series 11 will have the same architecture as its predecessors.
According to reports, a new blood pressure monitoring feature will be included in the next generation of smartwatches.
However, it is supposed to be made to watch for potential signs of hypertension and notify the wearer if any are found, rather just giving systolic and diastolic measurements. It would be a first for Apple’s standard smartwatch lineup if these leaks are accurate.
However, there is a chance that it will be postponed to later models, and its arrival with the Series Watch 11 is doubtful.
In the meantime, it is predicted that Apple would switch from using Intel modems for its existing Apple Watch models to using MediaTek’s modem technology. It might allow the Apple Watch Series 11 to enable 5G RedCap.
Apple Watch Ultra 3
While significant hardware improvements are not anticipated for the Apple Watch Series 11, the same cannot be said about the brand’s flagship wristwatch, the widely recognized Apple Watch Ultra 3. With a reported resolution of 422 × 514 pixels, the smartwatch may have the largest display yet seen on an Apple Watch.
According to reports, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 may have the same blood pressure monitoring feature as the Series 11 and be powered by the same S11 SoC. However, satellite connectivity is a new feature that Apple is reportedly planning to include to its premium smartwatch.
According to reports, the Watch Ultra 3 may have satellite connectivity when it launches, allowing for emergency SOS calls in the event that cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity is unavailable. Satellite-based text messaging may also be supported by the alleged smartwatch if its features are similar to those of the iPhone’s satellite connectivity.
The tech giant debuted a redesigned metal rear case with a bigger coil with the Watch Series 10. Faster charging speeds are made possible by this. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 might use the same technology.
Apple Watch SE 3
It is anticipated that the Watch SE 3 would gain from larger screens, just with the Apple Watch Ultra 3. It may be available with 1.6-inch and 1.8-inch screens, which are marginally bigger than the existing Watch SE 2 models, according to reports.
According to reports, the wristwatch has the same S11 chip as the Watch Ultra 3 and Watch Series 11 models, with no significant modifications in processing power. And much as in the past, Apple’s most affordable smartwatch will still lack certain significant health features.
It is anticipated that the Apple Watch SE 3 will not have the blood pressure monitoring feature that the Watch Series 11 and Watch Ultra 3 models may have. Heart rate, SpO2, sleep, and respiratory rate are among the essential health and fitness tracking features that it might still include.
More information is anticipated to appear available in the days ahead, along with improvements in durability, charging speed, and battery life.
watchOS 26 Upgrades
It is anticipated that watchOS 26 will be compatible with the Apple Watch Series 11, Watch Ultra 3, and Watch SE 3. Some of the Liquid Glass UI elements that we have observed in previous months in iOS 26 beta releases will be present in this version as well. Additionally, the addition of a new feature named Workout Buddy has been revealed. The operating system upgrade makes advantage of Apple Intelligence to provide information about users’ fitness metrics.
Additionally, Smart Stack for widgets and enhanced notifications will be available to Apple Watch users.