Apple Watch lineup expands with Series 10, Ultra 2, and SE updates
Key Points
- Series 10 introduces 42mm and 46mm cases with a 2,000‑nit OLED display.
- Ultra 2 retains a 49mm size, adds a satin‑black finish, and a 3, i.e., 3,000‑nit screen.
- SE remains the budget model with 40mm/44mm cases and a 1,000‑nit display.
- All three watches feature ECG, optical heart‑rate, and on‑device Siri (Series 10 and Ultra 2).
- Blood‑oxygen monitoring restored across Series 10, Series 9, and Ultra 2 via software update.
- Battery life: 18 hours for Series 10 and SE; 36 hours (up to 72 hours low‑power) for Ultra 2.
- Water resistance: 50 meters for Series 10 and SE; 100 meters for Ultra 2.
- Safety features include fall‑detection, crash‑detection, and an SOS siren on the Ultra 2.
- Pricing ranges from entry‑level SE to premium Ultra 2, with titanium options for Series 10.
Apple has refreshed its smartwatch portfolio with three distinct models: the Series 10, the Ultra 2, and the second‑generation SE. The Series 10 introduces larger 42mm and 46mm cases, a glossy jet‑black aluminum finish, and a brighter 2,000‑nit OLED display. The Ultra 2 retains its 49mm size while adding a satin‑black finish, a 3,000‑nit screen, and a depth gauge for water activities. The SE remains the budget option with 40mm and 44mm sizes, a 1,000‑nit display, and core health sensors. All three watches share Apple’s health‑focused software, on‑device Siri processing, and NFC for Apple Pay, while offering varied battery life, water resistance, and price points.
Design and Display
Apple’s refreshed smartwatch family showcases three distinct aesthetic and size options. The Series 10 arrives in 42mm and 46mm aluminum or titanium cases, featuring a glossy and anodized jet‑black finish on aluminum models. Its wide‑angle OLED display reaches up to 2,000 nits, providing bright visibility from multiple angles. The Ultra 2 continues with a single 49mm titanium case, now offered in a satin‑black finish produced via physical vapor deposition, and pushes brightness to 3,000 nits. The SE stays as the entry‑level option with 40mm and 44mm aluminum cases, an Ion‑X glass face, and a maximum brightness of 1,000 nits.
Performance and Battery
Under the hood, the Series 10 is powered by the S10 SiP chip, while the Ultra 2 uses the S9 SiP. Both chips enable on‑device Siri processing and support the Double Tap gesture. The SE relies on the earlier S8 SiP. Battery life varies across the lineup: Apple rates the Series 10 and SE for 18 hours of use, whereas the Ultra 2 is rated for 36 hours, extending to 72 hours in low‑power mode. Users can expect faster charging for the newer models, though specific charge times are not detailed in the source.
Health, Safety and Fitness Features
All three watches include core health sensors such as optical heart‑rate monitoring, ECG capability, and an accelerometer for activity tracking. The Series 10 and Ultra 2 add electrical heart‑rate sensors, temperature monitoring, and a depth gauge for water‑related activities. Both premium models also feature fall‑detection and crash‑detection safety alerts, while the SE provides basic crash detection. Blood‑oxygen monitoring, previously disabled due to a patent dispute, is now restored across the Series 10, Series 9, and Ultra 2 via a software update. The watches run watchOS 11, delivering features like Training Load, offline maps, and the ability to skip days in fitness tracking.
Connectivity and Ecosystem
Each Apple Watch integrates tightly with the iPhone ecosystem, requiring an iPhone for full functionality. NFC enables Apple Pay, and the devices support the Activity and Workout apps at no extra cost. The Series 10 and Ultra 2 benefit from on‑device Siri, reducing latency for common commands, while the SE relies on the paired iPhone for Siri requests. All models support Apple’s Fitness+ subscription, which adds guided workouts and real‑time metrics when paired with compatible Apple devices.
Water Resistance and Durability
Water resistance is built into each model, though depth ratings differ. The Series 10 and SE are rated for 50 meters, suitable for swimming and shallow water activities. The Ultra 2 doubles that rating to 100 meters, catering to divers and deep‑water enthusiasts. The Ultra 2 also includes an onboard SOS siren and dual‑frequency GPS for more accurate navigation in remote areas.
Pricing and Availability
The lineup spans a wide price range, reflecting differences in materials, size, and connectivity. The SE starts as the most affordable option, while the Series 10’s titanium variants command higher prices. The Ultra 2 is positioned as the premium rugged model with a single price point for its titanium case. All models are sold through Apple’s channels and selected third‑party retailers, with periodic sales and trade‑in discounts noted.