Apple introduced the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 during its annual fall event in September 2026. Starting at $399 for the Series 12 and $799 for the Ultra 4, the new smartwatches are available to preorder with availability beginning Friday, September 18, according to Yahoo. Both models run on the upgraded S11 chip, which Apple describes as its most powerful wearable chip, delivering faster CPU and GPU performance along with improved Siri capabilities.
Apple Unveils Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 With Advanced Health Sensing System
The hardware is re-architected around an all-new Health Sensing System that features new optical and electrical heart sensors. According to MacRumors, the redesigned array includes a larger electrode surface for better skin contact during ECG readings, photodiodes arranged in a ring to capture light more efficiently, and larger, more power-efficient green LEDs. These updates allow heart rate measurements to be collected every 5 seconds, providing a continuous stream of heart data and higher-frequency heart rate variability (HRV) measurements. Apple stated that it tested the tracking sensor against competing trackers and a chest strap in a study involving hundreds of participants performing running, cycling, and HIIT workouts, finding it to be the most accurate heart rate tracking of any wearable.
Readiness Scores, Vitals, and Longevity Metrics
The higher-frequency data powers an enhanced suite of fitness and wellness features, including a new Readiness score. Similar to features found in products from Oura and Fitbit, the Readiness feature analyzes recent activity, vitals, and sleep each morning to provide a daily score indicating whether users should rest, pace themselves, or work out as usual. Overnight vitals track recovery HRV measurements against a user’s personal baseline, while a new daytime vitals view allows users to toggle between metrics to spot potential shifts before they show up overnight.
Additionally, a redesigned Health app arriving later this year features a new Longevity tab that brings together insights across sleep, movement, and heart health. A Health Age feature compares metrics such as VO2 max and sleep with blood test biomarkers and chronological age. Users can manually enter lab results, sync medical records, or access a Quest blood panel covering more than 50 biomarkers for $119 in the U.S. A new VO2 max test also uses the iPhone camera alongside the watch during a series of exercises to provide immediate results.
Audio Intelligence, Siri Recaps, and Design Updates
Running on watchOS 27, the new Apple Watch models incorporate artificial intelligence features powered by Apple Intelligence. New Audio Intelligence capabilities include Sound Recognition, which identifies ambient noises such as alarms, doorbells, and a baby crying, and alerts users if it hears them. A Live Rewind feature can transcribe anything said around the user in the preceding 15 seconds, allowing transcripts to be saved to notes. Furthermore, a Siri Recap feature generates high-level notes, titles, summaries, and key points from daily conversations. Apple noted that these features do not create or store raw audio recordings, making them inaccessible to anyone, including Apple.
Externally, the Series 12 preserves signature design elements while reintroducing a ceramic case option available in pearl white and night blue. Made from compressed zirconia and alumina powder polished with a diamond slurry, Apple stated the ceramic casing is four times more durable than stainless steel. Aluminum models are available in Space Gray, Black, Light Gold, and Dark Bronze, and feature Ceramic Shield 2 on their screens, which Apple says is 60 percent tougher than the Ion-X glass of previous aluminum models. Polished titanium models are offered in Natural and Radiant Gold.
