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Are you a fitness or sports enthusiasts? Do you love adventure and the outdoors? Are you looking for a hybrid smartwatch and sports watch? Have you been wondering if the Apple Ultra is worth buying? Then this Apple Watch Ultra review is for you.
The Apple Watch Ultra is the latest addition to Apple’s impressive lineup of wearable technology. Unveiled in September of 2022, the Apple Watch Ultra is an impressive upgrade to its predecessors with its advanced features, sleek design, and top-of-the-line technology.
According to Apple, the Apple Watch Ultra was created for endurance, exploration, and adventure. However, a careful look at the features and design shows that the Ultra is designed to compete with other high-priced smartwatches that are targeted at fitness enthusiasts, e.g. the Garmin Epix 2.
The Apple Watch Ultra is the largest Apple Watch released so far, measuring 49mm. This means, it is 4mm larger than the Apple Watch Series 8, which is 45mm. Since it was launched in September of 2022, there’s been a lot of buzz surrounding it, especially amongst smartwatch enthusiasts.
But, is this just some hype or does the Apple Watch Ultra live up to all the buzz?
In this Apple Watch Ultra review, I’ll be taking a close look at the Apple Watch Ultra to determine whether it has lived up to the hype. I’ll be discussing the design and build quality, features and functionality, battery life, price and availability, etc.
So, if you’re in the market for a new smartwatch, then this review is for you. I’ll be providing you with an unbiased opinion of the Apple Watch Ultra, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses so you can make an informed decision about whether it’s worth the investment.
Alright then, let’s dive into the world of the Apple Watch Ultra and see whether it’s truly worth the hype.
What Is the Apple Watch Ultra?
The Apple Watch Ultra is the latest addition to Apple’s line of smartwatches. It was unveiled in September of 2022, after several years of been in development. It was touted as a device built for endurance, exploration, and adventure. It is the largest Apple Watch to date, measuring 49mm, which is 4mm larger than the 45mm Apple Watch Series 8 that is sold alongside it.
The watch is made of lightweight aerospace-grade titanium and has a flat sapphire crystal face. The digital crown is also larger in diameter and deeper grooved, and there is a housing for the side button. Additionally, the left side of the watch features an extra physical button called the Action button, which allows users to access a wide range of useful features instantly.
The Ultra has the best battery life of any Apple Watch so far, lasting up to 36 hours during normal use. For multi-day experiences, a new low-power setting can extend the battery life to reach up to 60 hours.
The Wayfinder watch face is designed specifically for the larger display of the Apple Watch Ultra and includes a compass built into the dial, with space for up to eight complications. This feature is ideal for adventurers who need to navigate their surroundings.
The Apple Watch Ultra also comes with three new bands — Trail Loop, Alpine Loop, and Ocean Band — that offer unique design features to provide a secure and comfortable fit for every adventure.
According to Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer, the Apple Watch Ultra was inspired by explorers and athletes from around the world. The device is designed to be the most rugged and capable Apple Watch yet, empowering users to push their boundaries with adventure, endurance, and exploration.
But beyond outdoor enthusiasts and those planning to engage in extreme sports, the Apple Watch Ultra is still a worthy investment. Whether you’re looking to get in better shape or want to try kayaking or scuba diving for the first time, the Apple Watch Ultra is for you. Its impressive features – the bigger battery and durable titanium casing – makes it an attractive option for those looking for a high-quality smart watch.
![Apple Watch Ultra [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Smart Watch w/Rugged Titanium Case & Orange Alpine Loop Medium. Fitness Tracker, Precision...](https://gadgetzhq.com/wp-content/uploads/thumbs_dir/apple-watch-ultra-gps-cellular-49mm-smart-watch-wrugged-titanium-case--q62zsig2ggzwmuis96ut85mh3pl1mqgxocddiejrm0.jpg)
Apple Watch Ultra [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Smart Watch w/Rugged Titanium Case & Orange Alpine Loop Medium. Fitness Tracker, Precision...
Amazon.com
Apple Watch Ultra Review: Design and Build
When it comes to design and build quality, the Apple Watch Ultra has a sleek and sophisticated design that is sure to turn heads. It has a larger display area that curves around the edges of the watch, giving it a more modern and stylish look, than previous models.
The Ultra has a lightweight aerospace-grade titanium body, a flat sapphire crystal face, a larger diameter, and a deeper grooved Digital Crown. The digital crown, which is used to navigate the watch’s interface, has a new haptic feedback system that gives the user a more responsive and tactile experience.
The side button has a housing, and an extra physical button called the Action button has been added to the left side. At 2000 nits, the Apple Watch Ultra is the brightest Apple Watch yet, making it easy to see in sunlight. The Action button is designed in international orange to make it easily
The Apple Watch Ultra is built to withstand a wider temperature range than previous models. It works in conditions as cold as -4 degrees Fahrenheit (-20° C) to as hot as 131 degrees Fahrenheit (55° C). The watch is certified to MIL-STD-810H, a metric used for military equipment and by rugged equipment manufacturers.
The design of the Apple Watch Ultra makes it easy to be used for water sports like kitesurfing, wakeboarding, and recreational scuba diving; unlike the standard Apple Watch models. It is certified to WR100 and EN 13319, an internationally recognized standard for diving accessories. When used for diving, the Apple Watch Ultra has a depth gauge and a dedicated Depth app that displays current depth, water temperature (using the new temperature sensor), duration underwater, and max depth reached.
Compared to other smartwatches on the market, the Apple Watch Ultra is undoubtedly one of the most elegant and sophisticated smartwatches on the market. The attention to detail and premium materials used make it a top contender in the smartwatch market.
Opinion: The Apple Watch Ultra is worth considering if you’re looking for a smartwatch with a modern and stylish design and a build quality that exudes luxury. It doesn’t matter whether you’re looking for a watch to wear at the office or out on the town. The watch’s construction is solid and feels durable, with a high-quality finish that’s resistant to scratches and every day wear and tear.
Apple Watch Ultra Review: Features and Functionality
The Apple Watch Ultra comes loaded with a range of impressive features that make it stand out from other smartwatches on the market. From fitness tracking to mobile payments, this watch has it all.
1. ECG App
One of the standout features of the Apple Watch Ultra is its ECG app, which allows users to take an electrocardiogram right from their wrist. This is a game-changing feature for anyone who wants to monitor their heart health on the go.
2. Fitness Tracking
Another impressive feature is the watch’s fitness tracking capabilities. The Apple Watch Ultra comes with a range of sensors that can track everything from your heart rate to the number of steps you take in a day, and it gives you personalized coaching to help you reach your fitness goals.
3. Dual-Frequency GPS
It also has a dual-frequency GPS feature which integrates both the L1 and L5 frequencies, along with new positioning algorithms. This feature provides the most accurate GPS of any Apple Watch, which means it also offers precise distance, pace, and route data for training and competing.
4. Wayfinder Watch Face
The Apple Watch Ultra has a special Wayfinder watch face, with a built-in compass and space for up to eight complications. The watch face can be customized for the mountain, ocean, or trail and turns red at night for better visibility. The Apple Watch Ultra supports Compass Waypoints for marking a location or point of interest, and a Backtrack feature uses GPS to create a path showing where the user has been, helpful for retracing steps when lost.
5. Fall Detection Technology
The Ultra also has a fall detection technology that sends an alert to emergency services if the user takes a hard fall.
6. Ultra Wideband Chip
Another feature that make the Apple Watch Ultra stand out is its new Ultra Wideband chip. This technology allows the watch to communicate with other Apple devices nearby, making it easy to share files and data. For example, if you want to transfer a file from your iPhone to your MacBook, all you have to do is point your watch at your MacBook, and the file will be transferred automatically.
7. Built-In Cellular Connection
The Apple Watch Ultra also has a built-in cellular connection, which means you can make calls and send texts without having to carry your iPhone with you. This feature is particularly useful for those who want to stay connected on the go or don’t want to carry their phone during workouts.
8. Enhanced Sound Quality
The watch has three built-in microphones that enhance sound quality. A beam forming algorithm captures voice while reducing ambient background sounds, even in noisy outdoor environments. There is also an 86-decibel siren available for drawing help if needed, with two SOS patterns.
9. Mobile Payments
The watch’s ability to make mobile payments is another big plus. With Apple Pay, you can quickly and securely make payments right from your wrist, without the need to carry your phone or wallet.
10. Customization Options
The Apple Watch Ultra also comes with a variety of bands and customization options. You can choose from a range of materials and styles, including leather, metal, and silicone. This means you can easily personalize your watch to match your personal style.
Opinion: The Apple Watch Ultra’s features and functionality make it a top choice for anyone in the market for a new smartwatch. With its advanced features, sleek design, and top-of-the-line technology, it’s one of the best smartwatches on the market. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a busy professional, or just someone who wants to stay connected on the go, the Apple Watch Ultra has something to offer.
Apple Watch Ultra Review: Battery Life
Thanks to its larger 49mm casing, the Apple Watch Ultra includes a larger battery that lasts up to 36 hours on a single charge. A new low-power setting addition enables battery life to last for up to 60 hours for multi-day adventuring. The battery can also last long enough for users to complete a long-course triathlon, including a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and a full 26.2-mile marathon.
Of course, battery life can vary depending on usage, so it’s important to note that if you’re using the watch extensively for fitness tracking, music streaming, or other power-hungry features, you may need to charge it more frequently.
To optimize battery life, there are a few things you can do. For example, you can adjust the brightness of the display, turn off certain features like always-on display or background app refresh, and even switch to power-saving mode when you’re running low on battery.
Opinion: Though the Apple Watch Ultra’s battery life is still behind the Garmin Epix 2 it is still among the best in the smartwatch market. When compared to other high-end smartwatches, it holds its own and even outperforms some of its competitors.
Apple Watch Ultra Price and Availability
The Apple Watch Ultra, with its enhanced design and outdoor-friendly features, comes at a considerable cost. While the cost of $799 might seem steep, being $400 more than the 41mm GPS Apple Watch Series 8, but the Ultra’s features might justify the cost.
Also, compared to other sports watches that have similar titanium construction and OLED screens, such as the $999 Garmin Epix 2, the Ultra is competitively priced. Of course, the Apple Watch Ultra’s battery life is not as long as the Epix 2’s, and it doesn’t offer as many navigation features, but it’s easier to use and comes with heart features like an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) app, cellular connectivity, and seamless integration with the iPhone.
As for availability, the Apple Watch Ultra is widely available both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. You can purchase it directly from Apple’s website, as well as from major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.
Unfortunately, Apple rarely discounts its products, so you will need to fork out the $799 cost if you desire to own this feature-packed Apple Watch. Nevertheless, there are occasional deals and promotions available, especially during major shopping events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday.
For the latest deals and Apple Watch Ultra’s Bundles on Amazon click here.
Apple Watch Ultra Review: Verdict
The Apple Watch Ultra is undoubtedly the most capable smartwatch for iPhone users, right now. Its new rugged design is eye-catching and it comes with features that make it stand out from other models. However, despite its impressive capabilities, the Ultra faces strong competition from Garmin’s high-end watches in the adventure watch market. While the Ultra offers most of the features needed by explorers and elite athletes, it falls short in a few areas. For instance, it may not have enough battery life for long endurance events, lacks compatibility with key external sensors, and doesn’t offer simple features such as in-workout button customization and automatic touchscreen lockout during activities. These are standard features on competing models.
Of course, these shortcomings may not be significant for casual or occasional athletes, but they could be deal-breakers for those who push their limits and rely heavily on their sports watches. However, with the possibility of software updates to address these shortcomings, the Ultra could become a more formidable competitor in the future.
Pros:
- Sleek and sophisticated design
- Advanced features for fitness and health tracking
- Ultra Wideband chip for easy file sharing
- Built-in cellular connection for staying connected on the go
- Intuitive and easy-to-use interface
- Wide range of customizable watch faces and bands
- Fast and responsive performance
- Comprehensive health monitoring features, including heart rate tracking and ECG readings
Cons:
- High price point compared to other smartwatches on the market
- Battery life can be inconsistent, especially with heavy usage
- Limited compatibility with non-Apple devices
- Some users have reported connectivity issues, particularly with Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity
- No native sleep tracking feature
Apple Watch Ultra vs Apple Watch Series 8 vs & Garmin Epix 2
| Features | Apple Watch Ultra | Apple Watch Series 8 | Garmin Epix 2 |
| Case Material | Titanium | Stainless Steel | Passivated Stainless Steel with Fiber-Reinforced Polymer |
| Dimensions | 49mm x 44mm x 14.4mm | 44mm/40mm | 47mm x 47mm x 14.5mm |
| Power | Built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery Up to 36 hours Up to 60 hours in low-power mode | Up to 18 hours on a single charge | Up to 15 days in smartwatch mode Up to 21 days in battery saver mode |
| Connectivity | LTE and UMTS8, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3 (iPhone only) | Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi (iPhone/Android) | Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi (iPhone/Android) |
| Durability | IP6X dust resistance, Water resistance to 330 feet, Tested to MIL-STD 810H | Water-resistant to 50 meters, Tested to MIL-STD-810 | Water-resistant to 100 meters, Tested to MIL-STD-810 |
| Software | watchOS 8 | watchOS 8 | Garmin OS |
| Health sensors | ECG, Blood Oxygen, Heart rate, Sleep, Fall detection, Emergency SOS | ECG, Blood Oxygen, Heart rate, Sleep, Fall detection, Emergency SOS | Pulse Ox, Heart rate, Stress, Body Battery Energy Monitor, Menstrual Cycle Tracking |
| GPS | L1 and L5 GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, and BeiDou | Built-in GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and QZSS | Built-in GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo |
| Weight | 61.3 g | 44mm: 36.7g; 40mm: 30.5g | 53 g |
| Mobile payments | Apple Pay | Apple Pay | Garmin Pay |
| Price | $799 | 44mm: $399; 40mm: $349 | $900 |
![Apple Watch Series 8 [GPS + Cellular 45mm] Smart Watch w/Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band - S/M. Fitness...](https://gadgetzhq.com/wp-content/uploads/thumbs_dir/apple-watch-series-8-gps-cellular-45mm-smart-watch-wmidnight-aluminum-q62zsifxgo0ux261xjw3jda8fdylcoec7a3alscgec.jpg)
![Apple Watch Ultra [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Smart Watch w/Rugged Titanium Case & Orange Alpine Loop Medium. Fitness Tracker, Precision...](https://gadgetzhq.com/wp-content/uploads/thumbs_dir/apple-watch-ultra-gps-cellular-49mm-smart-watch-wrugged-titanium-case--q62zsifxgo0ux261xjw3jda8fdylcoec7a3alscgec.jpg)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Apple Watch Ultra so expensive?
The Apple Watch Ultra is expensive due to its high-quality materials, advanced features, and exclusive ecosystem. It’s made with premium materials such as titanium and ceramic, and offers advanced health monitoring features such as ECG and blood oxygen monitoring.
Can I shower with Apple Watch Ultra?
Yes, the Apple Watch Ultra is water-resistant and can be worn while swimming or showering. However, it’s recommended that you avoid exposing the watch to soap or shampoo, as these can potentially damage the device.
Does Apple Watch Ultra have a camera?
No, the Apple Watch Ultra does not have a built-in camera. However, it can be used as a remote control for the camera on your iPhone.
Can Apple Watch Ultra work without iPhone?
The Apple Watch Ultra is designed to work seamlessly with an iPhone, but it can also function on its own for certain tasks such as fitness tracking and music playback. However, many features require an iPhone for full functionality.
How long does it take Apple Watch Ultra to charge?
The Apple Watch Ultra, like other Apple Watches, can charge from 0 to 80% in about an hour and from 0 to 100% in about 1.5 hours. However, the actual charging time may vary depending on factors such as the charger used and the watch’s battery level. It is recommended to use the included magnetic charging cable and a compatible power adapter for optimal charging speed.
Can you sleep with Apple Watch Ultra?
Yes, you can wear the Apple Watch Ultra while sleeping. The watch has a sleep tracking feature that monitors your sleep patterns and provides insights into your sleep quality. The watch is also designed to be comfortable to wear for extended periods, so you can wear it throughout the night without discomfort.
Bottom Line
The Apple Watch Ultra is a remarkable smartwatch that delivers on its promises. It is an impressive piece of wearable technology that is worth considering if you’re in the market for a smartwatch. Its advanced features, sleek design, and top-of-the-line technology make it one of the best smartwatches on the market. While it may be expensive compared to other smartwatches, the Apple Watch Ultra’s features and capabilities make it well worth the investment for Apple fans and tech enthusiasts alike.
For those who are seeking to improve their athletic performance or are already intermediate athletes, the Apple Watch Ultra offers what you require in addition to convenient smartwatch features. However, top-performing athletes may find that the built-in workout app does not provide as much detailed information as some of the more specialized fitness watches do.
Keep in mind that the Apple Watch Ultra is not solely a fitness watch with “smart” features added on; it is a rugged, sporty, and smartwatch. But, if your primary goal is to receive notifications and track basic fitness metrics, then the Apple Watch Series 8 is the best option for you.
That being said, the Apple Watch Ultra is a clear winner being the first product in the Apple Watch series to deviate from the design established in Series 4!
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