At its September 2024 iPhone event, Apple didn’t announce a new version of the Apple Watch Ultra like it has done the past two years. Instead, it updated the Apple Watch Ultra 2 with a new color and a band, as well as several enhancements through watchOS 11.
The Ultra 2 now comes in a satin black finish, which, Apple claims, was achieved through a “custom blasting process” and a “diamond-like carbon physical vapor deposition,” giving the rugged smartwatch a refined and durable look. A notable addition is a new band — a titanium Milanese loop, inspired by mesh historically used by divers. This band is designed for both style and performance, featuring corrosion-resistant titanium that makes it suitable for scuba diving and other water activities. Apple also highlighted that the Ultra 2 is made from 95% recycled grade 5 titanium as part of its efforts to be “carbon neutral.”
The Ultra 2 will also get new software enhancements through WatchOS 11, which introduces a bevy of new features such as sleep apnea notifications, an enhanced Vitals app and the Tides app, which offers tidal forecasts and conditions for various water activities. Another practical upgrade is the ability to play audio directly through the Watch’s built-in speakers, allowing users to listen to music, podcasts and more without needing to connect to headphones or another device. (These features are also coming to the new Apple Watch Series 10, which was also announced today alongside the iPhone 16 and AirPods 4.)
Pre-orders for the black titanium version, along with the new titanium Milanese Loop and other updated bands, are now available, with shipping beginning September 20. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 continues to start at $799, though you can get earlier band and color combos right now at Amazon for as much as $110 off.
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Update, Sept. 9, 6:34PM ET: Added some additional context, including specifying that the new WatchOS 11 features coming to the Ultra 2 will also be available on the Apple Watch Series 10.