Following the big 10th-anniversary splash last year, Apple's 2025 Watch lineup is all about refinement rather than revolution. While there's no new chip — the Series 11 and Ultra 3 still use the S10 from last year — these updates are significant for anyone looking to upgrade from an older device. Here's a hands-on take on the latest models.
Apple Watch Series 11
The Series 11 looks and feels identical to the Series 10, which is great news for fans of last year's thinner, more elegant design. The biggest functional improvement is a longer 24-hour battery life, thanks to a re-engineered internal battery.
All new titanium cases (for both the Series 11 and Ultra 3) are now entirely 3D-printed from recycled titanium. While 3D printing has been used in the watch world before, Apple is using it to create a case that looks exactly like a traditionally milled one — using half the raw material. This move isn't just about sustainability; it signals that this technology is now efficient enough for mass production, with big implications for the entire watch industry.
watchOS 26
The latest software brings two key health features: hypertension notifications and a new sleep score. The hypertension notifications are designed as a first step, encouraging users to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis. The sleep score gamifies the process of getting better rest — a welcome addition for health-focused users.
Apple also continues to have fun with watch faces. The new Exactograph face is a cool nod to traditional regulator dials, with a tap-to-expand feature for a clearer view of seconds and minutes. The Flow face offers a reactive, lava lamp-inspired vibe. These little Easter eggs for watch enthusiasts are always a treat.
Apple Watch Ultra 3
The Ultra 3 finally gets the hardware updates people have been waiting for. Battery life is now 42 hours (up from 36), and it features a new LTPO3 display with wide-angle OLEDs — enabling a lower-power refresh rate, better viewing angles, and a consistently ticking seconds hand. Small change, huge quality-of-life improvement.
For adventurers, the biggest new feature is satellite connectivity. In areas with no cellular service, the Ultra 3 can send basic messages, update a location, and — most critically — automatically reach emergency services if a fall is detected or the user is unresponsive.
Apple Watch SE 3
The SE 3 is no longer a scaled-back sibling. For the first time, it shares the same S10 chip as the Series 11 and Ultra 3, bringing an always-on display, 5G cellular, and fast charging. It also adds wrist temperature sensing and sleep apnea notifications.
While it still lacks EKG and hypertension detection, at a starting price of $249 it's a compelling option for fitness and sleep tracking — or as an affordable complement to a traditional mechanical watch collection.
This year's Apple Watch lineup proves that even incremental updates can make a big difference. Whichever model you choose, pair it with a band that's as refined as the watch itself.
