The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is set to arrive on September 9, and early reporting points to several meaningful changes that could separate it from earlier models. From upgraded health sensors to a next-generation chip, here’s what to expect from Apple’s most rugged smartwatch.
A Significant Upgrade to Health Sensors
Multiple reports suggest the Apple Watch Ultra 4 will feature substantial improvements to its internal sensors. One supply chain report went as far as saying the number of sensor components could double compared with prior models.
Additional reporting this week indicated that upgrades to fitness tracking are on the way. There is also evidence that a new high blood pressure-related feature has been reviewed by the FDA for a potential release soon.
While many specifics around these sensor additions remain unknown, the direction is clear: the Apple Watch Ultra 4 appears poised to lean further into health and fitness tracking than any model before it.
A New S-Class Chip Built for the AI Era
Last year’s Apple Watch lineup relied on the same S10 chip that first debuted in 2024, and the last truly meaningful performance jump came in 2023. That looks set to change. Rumors indicate the Apple Watch Ultra 4 and the Series 12 will ship with a new, more powerful chip, likely branded as the S11 or S12.
The timing aligns with the debut of Siri AI in watchOS 27. A first CPU boost to the S-class chip since 2023 would bring performance gains that could directly benefit new AI features, positioning the Apple Watch as a potential mass-market AI wearable.
Design Changes Remain a Wildcard
Reports conflict on whether the Apple Watch Ultra 4 will receive a design refresh. One report claims a redesign is coming, while another source said last month that none of this year’s watches is expected to get a major design overhaul.
What is known is that a ceramic case option is expected for the Apple Watch Series 12. That raises the possibility that Apple could offer something unique for the Ultra 4’s design as well, though the reporting remains unclear.
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is scheduled to be unveiled on September 9.
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Image: 9to5mac.com
