Apple is set to put its smartwatch lineup back in the spotlight on September 9, with the Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and a refreshed Apple Watch SE expected alongside the iPhone 17 lineup. The headline this year is display and finish tweaks rather than a wholesale redesign. Series 11 is tipped to keep the same overall look as Series 10 but gain a new screen that pushes higher peak brightness, while Apple also reshuffles case colors and bands after last year’s jet black finish drew chipping complaints.
This cycle reads as a refinement year for hardware. Reports suggest Apple is prioritizing durability and day to day legibility outdoors, hence the brighter panel on Series 11 and adjustments to color finishes. The long-awaited blood pressure detection feature still seems unlikely to arrive this year, as regulatory and engineering hurdles remain, which fits Apple’s careful rollout strategy for health sensors.
For Apple Watch Ultra 3, expect a slightly larger display paired with the S11 chip and new connectivity. 5G RedCap on cellular models could improve efficiency and coverage, while satellite messaging may debut as an exclusive feature. Ultra 3 looks to strengthen its position as the go-to option for outdoor and travel users without changing its rugged identity.
The Apple Watch SE is expected to get a faster chip and updated displays, keeping Apple’s entry-level model appealing for families and first-time buyers. Rumors of a lower-cost plastic housing have cooled, but Apple may still use brighter, kid-friendly colors to push the SE’s identity further.
Colors are the other big narrative. Series 11 is expected to rotate in fresh finishes while addressing durability complaints, with jet black possibly dropped. Ultra should stick to natural and black titanium, while SE could branch out into bolder shades. These changes won’t transform the hardware but should make the lineup feel fresher and more distinct.
watchOS 26 will arrive alongside the new models, bringing Apple Intelligence-powered features like Workout Buddy for personalized coaching, Live Translation, and smarter Smart Stack suggestions. These features will be available across supported devices, but will shine brighter on the new displays.
(via Bloomberg)
