Apple has just announced the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, packing in upgrades such as a faster S11 chip, a new health sensing system and a return to the ceramic case. The Series 12 features a Health Sensing System with 32 electrodes, photodiodes and new LEDs for continuous heart rate monitoring. The Ultra 4 boasts up to 50 hours of battery life, with faster charging and 24-hour battery life for the Series 12. Both models run on the upgraded S11 chip, which boasts improved Siri capabilities and a redesigned Health app with a Longevity tab. The Series 12 also includes a new 'Health Sensing System', promising more accurate readings and a continuous stream of heart data throughout the day.
The Ultra 4, in particular, is a significant upgrade, with a 50-hour battery life and a return to the ceramic case, available in pearl white and night blue finishes. Apple also introduced a new 'Health Sensing System' with 32 electrodes, photodiodes and new LEDs, designed to offer continuous heart rate monitoring. The new Siri Recap feature can translate and transcribe real-time conversations, making it a handy tool for those in the restaurant industry or anyone needing to keep track of important exchanges.
WatchOS 27 also introduces a dynamic app grid, a one-handed tap gesture, and a double-tap to scroll through widgets. A wrist-flick gesture can return you to the watch face, silence timers, and dismiss notifications. The 24-hour battery life remains the same for the Series 12, but it now offers faster charging: 15 minutes gets up to 12 hours of battery life. The Ultra 4’s battery has expanded to up to 50 hours.
Workout Buddy now incorporates more wellness metrics and can run without an iPhone nearby. Cycle tracking is gaining support for perimenopause and menopause, including notifications about cycle deviations associated with perimenopause. With the launch of watchOS 27, Apple is removing Walkie-Talkie, its real-time voice communication tool, which previously allowed Apple Watch users to communicate directly with one another.
