Apple's September keynote is just around the corner, and beyond the new iPhones, one of the silent protagonists will be the Apple Watch Ultra 4Although the company has not officially confirmed anything, various reports agree that this is an update that looks similar on the outside, but with significant changes on the inside, especially in health and performance.
Leaks from journalists and analysts with a good track record, such as Mark GurmanThese features allow us to begin outlining what we can expect from this new watch geared towards sports and outdoor activities. The consensus is clear: the design will hardly changeBut there will be a new processor, improvements in heart rate monitoring, and a strong focus on wellness metrics to compete with offerings like Oura or Whoop.
Presentation and position in the range
If there are no last minute changes, the The Apple Watch Ultra 4 will be unveiled on September 9th. at Apple's event in Cupertino, sharing the stage with the iPhone 18 Pro and the rest of the new generation of watches. Various sources indicate that this year's range will focus on the Apple Watch Series 12 and the new Ultra model, without a fourth-generation Apple Watch SE.
This move would leave the Ultra 4 as the top-of-the-line option for those seeking the brand's most complete watch. Apple's strategy would involve reinforcing the differentiation between the Ultra and the standard models with improvements in sensors, battery life, and advanced sports and health features, while maintaining compatibility with the Apple ecosystem. Watch 27.
In Spain and Europe, where previous Apple Watch Ultra models have already established themselves as niche devices for discerning users, all indications suggest that this model will remain in the higher price bracket of the catalog. While there are no official figures, several analysts agree that, given the current cost environment, it's unlikely the new Ultra 4 arrive cheaper than its predecessor.
Continuity design and materials
Virtually all leaks agree that we will not see a radical redesign of the Apple Watch Ultra 4The casing will maintain the robust aesthetic we already know: sharp lines, prominent physical buttons (including the side action button), and a large always-on display. No drastic changes in shape or size are expected, beyond possible minor adjustments in weight or thickness.
Similarly, reports rule out the arrival of Integrated Touch ID on the watch. Although there had been rumors of a fingerprint reader, sources who have reviewed the hardware in development have found no evidence of this feature in either the Ultra 4 or the Series 12, so unlocking would continue to rely on the numeric code and integration with the iPhone.
StrapsThe same anchoring systems and materials would be retained: silicone, nylon, and metal options, with new colors and combinations designed for this generation. Everything indicates that Apple will not modify the attachment mechanism, which would allow the reuse of straps from previous generations on both the Ultra 4 and the Series 12.
Where an aesthetic update is expected, although more closely linked to the Series 12 than the Ultra model, is in the return of ceramicsSeveral reports, supported by Mark Gurman, indicate that Apple is testing versions with ceramic casing The standard model would be available in white and dark gray. This option would maintain the strategy of offering a very premium, scratch-resistant finish for a high-price segment, while the Ultra would continue to use materials like titanium to prioritize robustness.
New chip and a leap in performance
The most significant change in the Ultra 4 would be internal. The current Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 use a different chip. S10 successor to the S9which in practice has meant several years of very limited performance. The most recent leaks agree that the Ultra 4 will debut a new generation of processor, referred to as S11 or simply as S12 According to the source, but with a common message: this time there will be a clear improvement in power and efficiency.
It's not just about the watch running more smoothly through menus and apps, something that's already quite polished in current models. Apple's goal would be to leverage this performance leap to power new sensors, process more real-time health data, improve battery life, and enable local AI features without relying so heavily on the iPhone.
In the specific case of the Apple Watch Ultra 4, this new chip could translate into a more efficient battery management When using intensive features such as high-precision GPS, advanced sport modes, or the new continuous heart rate monitoring, several comparative analyses indicate that, in a watch of this type, an efficiency improvement far outweighs a simple increase in interface speed.
So far, no leaks suggest a major change to the Ultra 4's screen, beyond what the new processor might bring in terms of maximum brightness, always-on mode behavior, and energy optimization. The idea would be Refine what already works in the Ultra 3, which already has one of the most outstanding panels in the sports watch market.
24/7 heart rate sensor and new approach to health
The big headline of this generation would be in the section on health and monitoringSeveral reports agree that Apple is testing a new measurement system that would allow heart rate to be recorded continuously 24 hours a day, not just when we start a workout or at regular intervals as is the case now.
Currently, the Apple Watch takes spot measurements throughout the day to save battery, and only records the pulse at a constant speed by activating an exercise mode. With the Ultra 4 and the Series 12, Apple is reportedly testing a sensor or combination of sensors capable of maintaining 24/7 heart rate monitoring without turning the back of the watch into a permanent green light or draining the battery in just a few hours.
The leaked information points to some kind of measurement of low energy consumption and no constant light emissionThis would be complemented by the traditional optical system for moments of greatest intensity. This solution would allow for recording heart rate trends in much greater detail, which is key to interpreting the body's recovery status and stress levels.
Based on this data, Apple plans a revamp of its apps Health and Fitnessboth on the iPhone and on the watch itself. The idea is to move beyond focusing solely on rings, steps, and calories, and instead approach models like Oura or Whoop, offering more interpretive metrics related to overall well-being: quality of sleep, daily preparation for exertion, accumulated fatigue, and recommendations on when to ease off.
These functions would be linked to an advanced stage of iOS 27 and watchOS 27And there are still doubts about whether the entire package of new features will be limited to the Ultra 4 and Series 12, or if some of it will be available on previous, more recent models. What several sources do seem to agree on is that the most comprehensive continuous heart rate monitoring experience will be reserved for watches with the new hardware.
Sports experience, battery life, and target users
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 will continue to be geared towards those looking for a watch for intense sport and outdoor activitiesBut with added health tracking. The combination of a robust body, advanced GPS, mobile connectivity, water resistance, and security features, along with the new layer of wellness metrics, points to a device that is especially attractive to mountaineers, long-distance runners, and users who want to monitor their fitness almost in real time.
In this context, the autonomy It remains one of the biggest unknowns. Several reviews highlight that, for the Ultra 4 to truly be worthwhile compared to the Ultra 3, Apple will have to leverage the new chip to extend battery life, especially now that continuous heart rate monitoring will take center stage. A tangible increase in usage time without increasing the watch's size would be one of the strongest arguments in favor of the upgrade.
Some reports suggest that, for an Apple Watch Ultra 3 user, a set of purely incremental changes—a bit more power, minor screen tweaks, or small design adjustments—might not be enough to justify upgrading to the new generation. The key will be whether the set of new health features and potential autonomy improvements They truly make a difference in everyday life.
However, for those coming from a first generation Apple Watch Ultra Even compared to older, classic models, the accumulated improvements from several iterations—a more refined screen, a more efficient processor, satellite connectivity in recent models, new wellness metrics, and improved sensors—can make the Ultra 4 a much more attractive option. In Europe, where many users keep their devices for several years, this kind of significant generational leap can be especially relevant.
For those who don't yet own a high-end Apple Watch and are considering upgrading, the proximity of the launch makes waiting a good option. official prices and specifications On the table, it will be easier to decide between opting for the Ultra 4 or taking advantage of possible discounts on the Ultra 3 and other previous models in the Spanish and European market.
Everything suggests that the Apple Watch Ultra 4 will be one of those updates that doesn't immediately catch your eye, but which... adding improvements in chip, sensors and health softwareThis could represent an interesting leap forward for athletes and users who push the watch to its limits. Without a radical redesign or major surprises, Apple seems to be focusing this year on refining what already works, reinforcing its commitment to wellness, and solidifying the Ultra as its most complete watch for those who want more than just a simple step counter on their wrist.
