The Apple Watch Ultra, Apple's premium smartwatch, faces an interesting challenge this year. Despite an upcoming update, the 2024 edition of the Apple Watch Ultra appears to offer few significant hardware improvements. This could be both surprising and somewhat disappointing for fans of the series.
Since the launch of the original Apple Watch in April 2015, Apple has continued to evolve and expand its technology. Positioned as the rugged model designed for extreme sports and adventure, the Apple Watch Ultra has gained a loyal following since its launch. But this year could be different.
What does the expert say?
Ming-Chi Kuo, a well-known Apple supply chain analyst, shares in a recent direct message with MacRumors that the Apple Watch Ultra update will see "almost no" hardware upgrades this year. This announcement comes as a surprise, as Apple usually presents new and improved features every year.
What will the Apple Watch Ultra 2024 offer?
Although specific details about the changes are scarce, some speculations can be made:
- Minor improvements: Apple may introduce minor software updates or optimizations in battery performance and connectivity.
- Enduring features: Features like GPS tracking, improved water resistance and increased durability that are essential for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes are likely to be retained.
- Integration of new health features: Based on the rumors, which also concern the successor model to the Apple Watch Series 9, functions such as blood pressure measurement and sleep apnea detection could be integrated into the new Ultra model series.
What does this mean for consumers and the market?
The alleged decision to launch the Apple Watch Ultra 3 without major hardware upgrades could provoke various reactions. For loyal fans of the brand who hope for significant upgrades every year, this could be a disappointment. On the other hand, this could be an opportunity for new buyers to invest in a technologically mature and stable smartwatch without having to worry about teething issues with new features. In addition, the launch of a potentially redesigned "Apple Watch X" and the third generation of the Apple Watch SE is also imminent, which will expand the choice and decision-making for end consumers. (Image: Apple)