Apple’s top-tier smartwatch, the Apple Watch Ultra 2, remains the brand’s most rugged and feature-packed wearable, priced at $799. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, and divers, it offers enhanced durability, extended battery life, and specialized tools that set it apart from the standard Apple Watch Series 10.
Key Upgrades Over Previous Models
Launched in September 2023, the Ultra 2 received a minor refresh in 2024, including a new satin black titanium finish. The next major update isn’t expected until 2025, making this a reasonable time to buy—unless you’re willing to wait for potential future upgrades.
Compared to the first-generation Ultra, the Ultra 2 features:
- A faster S9 chip with improved machine learning capabilities.
- Double Tap gesture for one-handed control (e.g., answering calls, pausing music).
- Brighter display (up to 3,000 nits) and better water resistance (certified for diving).
- Longer battery life (up to 36 hours, extendable to 72 hours in Low Power Mode).
However, U.S. models sold since January 2024 lack a functional blood oxygen sensor due to an ongoing patent dispute with Masimo.
Who Should Buy the Apple Watch Ultra 2?
This watch is ideal for:
- Outdoor adventurers needing GPS precision and extreme durability.
- Athletes who require long battery life and advanced workout tracking.
- Divers (certified for recreational scuba diving up to 40 meters).
Those with smaller wrists may find the 49mm case too bulky. If you don’t need extreme durability, the Apple Watch Series 10 (starting at $399) offers a sleeker alternative.
Standout Features
Rugged Design & Durability
- Titanium casing with flat sapphire crystal for scratch resistance.
- MIL-STD-810H certification (military-grade toughness).
- Operates in extreme temperatures (-4°F to 131°F).
Advanced Health & Fitness Tracking
- ECG, heart rate monitoring, and sleep apnea detection (new in watchOS 11).
- Depth app for underwater tracking (depth, temperature, dive time).
- Crash Detection & 86-decibel emergency siren.
Enhanced Connectivity
- Dual-frequency GPS for better accuracy.
- Second-gen Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip for Precision Finding (locating lost iPhones).
- Cellular support (requires carrier plan).
What’s Next for the Ultra Line?
The Apple Watch Ultra 3, expected in 2025, may introduce:
- Satellite connectivity for emergency messaging.
- 5G support via MediaTek modems.
- Potential blood pressure monitoring (though technical hurdles remain).
Conclusion
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a premium investment best suited for serious athletes and adventurers. If you need extreme durability, diving capabilities, or multi-day battery life, it’s worth the $799 price.
For casual users, the Apple Watch Series 10 or SE may be more practical.
