Apple just refreshed its smartwatch lineup, and the new models keep the same starting prices as last year while adding a fresh processor, new health tools, and a ceramic case option.
The Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 debuted at the company’s “Surprise and shine” event. The Series 12 starts at $399 for the aluminum version without cellular, and the Ultra 4 starts at $799. Both prices match their predecessors.
The S11 processor drives the changes
The biggest differences between the new and old models come from the S11 chip. It powers the new Apple Intelligence features, including brief audio transcriptions and summaries. The chip also supports more detailed health and fitness programs than the previous generation.
Health sensors and tracking see sizable improvements across both lines.
A ceramic case on the Series 12
The Series 12 adds a ceramic case option. The heaviest ceramic Apple Watch Series 12 sits at 42.8 grams for the 42mm version and 52.9 grams for the 46mm version.
The biggest differences between the models are new features powered by the S11 processor.
Battery life improves on the Ultra
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 stretches its battery life to up to 50 hours on a single charge. That is up from 42 hours on the Ultra 3.
All the new watches are slightly heavier than their predecessors. The heaviest Apple Watch Ultra is 63.1 grams, up from 61.8 grams on the older model.
Weight increases are small
The weight increases are small but consistent across the lineup.
How the models stack up
If you are deciding between the new and last-gen models, here is the quick breakdown:
- Series 12 starts at $399, same as the previous iteration.
- Ultra 4 starts at $799, same as the previous iteration.
- S11 processor enables Apple Intelligence features on both new models.
- Ceramic case is an option on the Series 12.
- Ultra 4 battery reaches 50 hours, versus 42 on Ultra 3.
- All new models weigh slightly more than their predecessors.
Where to see the full details
Our hands-on coverage covers the full scope of the changes. Victoria Song also jumped into the post-event Vergecast livestream, which you can find in the video we linked above.
The bottom line
The takeaway is simple: you get more features for the same money, but you pay for them in extra grams on your wrist. The S11 processor opens the door to Apple Intelligence, the Ultra lasts longer between charges, and the ceramic option gives the Series 12 a fresh look. If those upgrades matter to you, the new models are a clear step forward at no extra cost.
Source: theverge.com
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