Apple Watch Ultra 3: Rumors, Speculation, and What to Expect
- Apple’s September event might have some head-scratchers, especially around the Apple Watch Ultra 3.
- Expect bigger screens, or maybe not – it’s all just whispers at this point.
- Health tech fans, don’t hold your breath – delays are the name of the game this year.
A Mixed Bag of Rumors Surrounding Apple's Next Big Thing
As September approaches, Apple enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the company's next major event, set for September 9, 2024. The tech giant is expected to unveil the iPhone 16 series, but the real question on the minds of many is whether we'll see the debut of the Apple Watch Ultra 3. However, as the rumor mill churns, opinions seem to be divided on whether a new Ultra model is actually on the horizon this year.
Design and Hardware: A Subtle Evolution or a No-Show?
Rumors about the Apple Watch Ultra 3 have been swirling, but credible sources like Mark Gurman of Bloomberg suggest that we shouldn't expect any significant hardware upgrades. "Almost no" hardware changes are anticipated, according to Gurman, leaving many to speculate that the next-gen Ultra will be more of a software update than a revolutionary new device.
Despite these reports, there have been whispers of potential design tweaks. TrendForce hinted at a possible 10% increase in screen size, bringing the display to a hefty 2.12 inches. This could be seen as a double-edged sword, as the current Ultra model is already considered bulky by some users.
Photo via TechRadar // Is Apple Watch Ultra coming this year... at all? The rumors are mixed.
Health Features: On the Cutting Edge or Stuck in Development?
Apple has long been rumored to be working on advanced health features like blood pressure monitoring, sleep apnea detection, and even glucose monitoring. However, legal battles and technical challenges seem to be holding these innovations back. A lawsuit from health tech firm Masimo has already led to Apple disabling its blood oxygen monitoring feature, and it's unclear if the company has found a workaround.
As a result, it's possible that these much-anticipated health features may not make it into the Ultra 3, or any other Apple Watch model in the near future.
MicroLED Display: Delayed Dreams
One of the most exciting potential upgrades for the Apple Watch Ultra 3 was the introduction of a microLED display, promising a brighter, more energy-efficient screen. However, reports from industry analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo suggest that Apple has hit production snags, pushing this upgrade back to 2027 at the earliest. If true, this delay could mean that the Ultra 3 will stick with the same display technology as its predecessor, potentially disappointing those hoping for a major leap forward in screen quality.
Release Date and Price: Uncertain Prospects
Kuo has also cast doubt on whether we'll see a new Apple Watch Ultra this year at all, suggesting that Apple may be delaying the release to focus on developing "innovative health management features." This is a significant departure from Apple's usual product cycle, and if true, it could mean that fans of the Ultra series will have to wait longer than expected for the next iteration.
If the Ultra 3 does launch in 2024, it's expected to hit shelves on September 20, alongside the iPhone 16 series. As for the price, with no major hardware upgrades rumored, it's likely to stay around the $799 mark, the same as the Ultra 2. However, if Apple surprises us with new features like the microLED display or advanced health sensors, a price bump could be on the table.
Photo via Lifewire // Are you on the market for a new Apple Watch Ultra? Let us know down in the comments.
Conclusion: A Year of Uncertainty
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 remains shrouded in mystery, with conflicting reports and speculation making it difficult to pin down exactly what to expect. Some sources suggest that a new model is imminent, while others claim that Apple is taking a step back to focus on long-term innovations. As we edge closer to the September event, Apple fans will be watching closely to see if the company has any surprises up its sleeve—or if the Ultra 3 is destined to remain a rumor for now.
Stay tuned as we continue to monitor the latest developments. Whether the Apple Watch Ultra 3 makes its debut this year or not, one thing is certain: the anticipation surrounding Apple's next move is only growing.
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Thank you for visiting Apple Scoop! As a dedicated independent news organization, we strive to deliver the latest updates and in-depth journalism on everything Apple. Have insights or thoughts to share? Drop a comment below—our team actively engages with and responds to our community. Return to the home page.Published to Apple Scoop on 29th August, 2024.
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