Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3: Health, Connectivity, and Style

Apple’s “Awe Dropping” event on September 9, 2025, streamed from the Steve Jobs Theater, introduced a trio of Apple Watches that elevate health tracking, connectivity, and design. With pre-orders live since September 9 and devices shipping September 19, here’s a punchy breakdown of the new Apple Watch lineup that’s got fitness buffs and tech fans buzzing.

Apple Watch Series 11: Health Smarts and 5G

The Apple Watch Series 11 ($399 for 42mm, $429 for 46mm) builds on the Series 10’s sleek design with no major exterior changes but packs significant upgrades. Powered by the S10 chip (same as Series 10, contrary to S11 rumors), it offers 20% better performance for AI-driven features.

The aluminum models (Jet Black, Silver, Rose Gold, Space Gray) feature Ion-X glass with a new ceramic coating for 2x better scratch resistance, while titanium versions (Natural, Gold, Slate) use sapphire crystal.

Key reveals include:
• Hypertension detection for high blood pressure trends
• Sleep Score with insights into REM, deep, and awake stages
• Blood oxygen monitoring returning in the US
• 5G RedCap support for faster connectivity
• 24-hour battery life with brighter LTPO3 OLED displays
• watchOS 26’s Liquid Glass UI and Workout Buddy AI coach

Pricing holds steady at $399/$429 (GPS) and $499/$529 (GPS + Cellular). Apple

Apple Watch Ultra 3: Rugged and Connected

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 ($799 for 50mm) is a beast for adventurers, with a bigger display and off-grid capabilities. Its titanium frame (Black, Natural, Deep Blue) keeps the rugged aesthetic, with thinner bezels enabling a 50mm LTPO3 OLED display.

Highlights include:
• Satellite SOS messaging without iPhone or cellular
• Hypertension detection, Sleep Score, and advanced scuba metrics
• Tides app for divers
• 42 hours of battery life (72 in low-power mode)
• Dual-frequency GPS and background noise suppression

At $799, it includes cellular and satellite connectivity.

Apple Watch SE 3: Budget-Friendly Power

The Apple Watch SE 3 ($249 for 40mm, $279 for 44mm) is a major upgrade for budget buyers, now with the S10 chip for Series 11-level performance. Available in Midnight and Starlight aluminum.

Key features:
• Always-on display with larger screen
• Sleep apnea detection and wrist temperature sensing
• 24-hour battery life
• watchOS 26 with Liquid Glass UI and Workout Buddy

At $249/$279 (GPS) and $349/$379 (GPS + Cellular), it’s a strong entry point.

Why It Matters

The Apple Watch lineup leans into health and connectivity, with hypertension detection and Sleep Score addressing critical wellness needs. The Ultra 3’s satellite feature makes it a true outdoor companion, while the SE 3 blurs the line between budget and premium. watchOS 26 ties the ecosystem together, launching September 15.

Posts on X show 75% excitement for health features but 25% disappointment over the S10 chip reuse, with some calling Series 11 “iterative.”

Final Thoughts

The Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3 balance innovation and accessibility. With smarter health tools, stronger connectivity, and consistent pricing, Apple is doubling down on making the Watch a must-have. The Ultra’s satellite SOS and SE’s always-on display steal the spotlight, proving the Watch lineup isn’t just iterativeit’s evolving for every type of user. Want to explore Ultra 3’s off-grid power or SE 3’s new value? Watch the replay on Apple’s site or YouTube.