Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has shared an updated product roadmap indicating that Apple plans to release both the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3 later this year, likely alongside the iPhone 17 lineup. This follows Apple’s traditional September launch cycle, which has historically seen new smartwatches debut with the latest iPhones.
Fans of the rugged Apple Watch Ultra have waited longer than usual for an upgrade. Apple did not introduce a new Ultra model in 2024, opting instead to add only a black titanium color option to the existing Apple Watch Ultra 2. If Kuo’s timeline holds, the Ultra 3 will mark the first significant update to the lineup in nearly two years.
Satellite Connectivity and 5G Among Expected Upgrades
Kuo’s forecast aligns with other industry insiders, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who previously suggested the Ultra 3 could feature satellite connectivity and 5G support. These enhancements would help justify the extended development cycle and further differentiate the Ultra from Apple’s mainstream smartwatches.
Broader Apple Roadmap Hints at HomePad Tablet and AirPods Pro 3 Delay
Beyond wearables, Kuo’s projections for 2025 include the potential launch of a HomePad tablet, a rumored device that would expand Apple’s smart home offerings. However, he also indicates that the AirPods Pro 3 may not arrive until 2026, a timeline that contradicts some recent leaks.
As Apple’s fall event approaches, more details are expected to emerge, but for now, anticipation is building for what could be one of the most significant Apple Watch updates in years.
