Apple may have just confirmed its own secret. Hidden inside the newly released iOS 26 developer beta 5 is an image pointing to a new Apple Watch model with a display resolution of 422 x 514. This does not match any current Apple Watch model, and it strongly suggests that the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is on its way with a larger display. The image was first spotted by contributor Aaron Perris and has since sparked speculation about Apple’s upcoming wearable lineup expected this fall.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 currently features a display resolution of 410 x 502. The new 422 x 514 resolution represents a modest but meaningful bump, and could indicate either a larger display size or thinner bezels within the same casing. While there have been no consistent rumors about a casing size increase, it is possible that Apple is maximizing screen real estate without changing the footprint of the device. Based on the new image, if the Apple Watch Ultra 3 maintains the same 1.92-inch screen size, it would push the pixel density to 344.58 ppi, compared to 335.83 ppi on Ultra 2. Alternatively, if Apple keeps pixel density the same, the screen size could increase by about 3 percent to 1.98 inches.
The timing of this discovery aligns with Apple’s typical fall product release cycle. Apple is expected to announce the Apple Watch Ultra 3 alongside the iPhone 17 and Apple Watch Series 11 during its September keynote. While the exact date has not been officially confirmed, September 9 is widely anticipated for the event.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is rumored to feature significant hardware upgrades. These include satellite connectivity for emergency communication in remote areas, a brighter and faster LTPO3 OLED display for improved always-on performance, and possibly 5G support for more reliable connectivity. The watch may also introduce new health-focused features, such as blood pressure monitoring, depending on regulatory clearance. Internally, Apple is expected to use a new generation of chip, possibly the S10 or S11 SiP, which could further improve efficiency and performance.
These upgrades would continue Apple’s push to position the Ultra line as the most advanced and rugged wearable in its ecosystem. The slightly larger screen size, combined with a more powerful internal chip and additional connectivity features, could make the Apple Watch Ultra 3 a substantial improvement over its predecessor.
With the iOS 26 beta revealing key design clues and the expected September announcement drawing closer, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated wearable launches of the year.
(via MacRumors)
