Apple Watch Ultra is here! First impressions and photos thread

[Arran]

…Reminds me of Hondas marketing for the Element. Surfers! Campers! Kids on Adventures! All 19 of them, right? The Element was AWESOME - as a manageable SUV for old homeowners with pets...

So true. The Honda Element was a cheap, high quality, thoughtfully-designed and multi-purpose platform. Pretty rare for a product. It looked a bit odd, but that was part of the appeal. Buyers could dress it up fancy with aftermarket upgrades and cruise the boulevards, take it to the beach overnight or leave as a simple utilitarian transporter down on the farm. It all worked.

All the watches are the same: Platforms for apps that can be whatever the owner configures them to be. Interestingly, when I was in Apple store buying mine, most of the interest round the table was from middle-aged and older folks. A trio of little old ladies looked like they were in their 80’s - and they seriously looked like buyers.

 

[RPhoto]

Not true at all... the Ultra has many benefits over a Series 6 including battery life, a programmable side button, and a much larger screen.

Yes but the core functionality is the same. Unless the poster regularly runs out of battery during the day. The action button is nice but not essential. Screen is awesome but not essential. I’m speaking as an owner of both watches, and favours the Ultra by far.

If you’re not someone whose use case *absolutely* requires the specifics of the Ultra, and if you have to ask if it’ll be worth getting that suggests possibly not, it comes down to design or wanting it because it’s new. Both of which are valid if the buyer deems them to be.

But that’s just my opinion and I’m happy to be disagreed with 🙂

 

[newellj]

Question.. do you all think the ultra would be worth upgrading to if you have a Series 6 Apple Watch?

A few things to keep in mind.
- I don't do extreme sports or scuba diving like the watch is targeted towards. But I DO go hiking from time to time.
- I do use my Series 6 for my gym workouts and outdoor walks etc.

Just trying to decide if I should get the ultra, series 8, or just hold on to my series 6 for another year and see what Apple comes with next year.

Personally, I wouldn't go from a S6 to a S8 unless you really want the wrist temp sensor or the S6 is showing signs of trouble that you can't take care of with AC (assuming you have AC and it's still in effect).

Anyone go from an AW6 or AW7 to the AWU and have buyer's remorse?

Don't be embarrassed... I am the king of buyer's remorse, and admitting it is the first step in feeling better.

I had (still have) a S7. I bought an AWU the day they were released. Was a little put off by the size, the Alpine Loop and the increased thickness, so I returned it. After a few days I realized I was really missing the AWU, so I bought another (with the Trail Loop). No remorse or regrets this time.

I wouldn't say that the AWU is a compelling, as in gotta-do-it-now, upgrade, but it's quite nice. In no particular order, the battery life is a real game-changer; I really like having eight complications on the watch face; the action button is surprisingly convenient for direct and immediate workout starts; the brighter display is nice in bright light and the night mode is nice in cases where you don't want to disturb people or want to preserve your night vision.

 

[doolar]

Yes but the core functionality is the same. Unless the poster regularly runs out of battery during the day. The action button is nice but not essential. Screen is awesome but not essential. I’m speaking as an owner of both watches, and favours the Ultra by far.

If you’re not someone whose use case *absolutely* requires the specifics of the Ultra, and if you have to ask if it’ll be worth getting that suggests possibly not, it comes down to design or wanting it because it’s new. Both of which are valid if the buyer deems them to be.

But that’s just my opinion and I’m happy to be disagreed with 🙂

As an active person and runner, at 47, these things actually make a big difference, and are what I would call essential to me. I’ve held on to my S5, even replaced its battery recently to keep the S5 for longer, but the Ultras upgrades had me reconsider.

An early start in the morning, work, come home, have a long running session without even thinking about the battery is a big deal for me. I use my Watch a lot on cellular, and it meant that if I was going for a run in the evening, I always had to charge my S5 or it would not make it. I don’t have to any longer. The lowest I’ve gotten the Ultra to in a day is 40-something percent, but that was a long day with loads of cellular time, two hour run with streaming music and ending late in the evening. Totally impossible with my S5, even with a new battery at 100% wear level.

The bigger screen is coming from a S5 huge for ageing eyes. Time in the upper right corner when in the Workout app is suddenly perfectly readable out on the run, and that’s just one example.

Just sayin’…. The things that are cosmetics or just nice to haves for you, can be essential for another.

 

[RPhoto]

As an active person and runner, at 47, these things actually make a big difference, and are what I would call essential to me. I’ve held on to my S5, even replaced its battery recently to keep the S5 for longer, but the Ultras upgrades had me reconsider.

An early start in the morning, work, come home, have a long running session without even thinking about the battery is a big deal for me. I use my Watch a lot on cellular, and it meant that if I was going for a run in the evening, I always had to charge my S5 or it would not make it. I don’t have to any longer. The lowest I’ve gotten the Ultra to in a day is 40-something percent, but that was a long day with loads of cellular time, two hour run with streaming music and ending late in the evening. Totally impossible with my S5, even with a new battery at 100% wear level.

The bigger screen is coming from a S5 huge for ageing eyes. Time in the upper right corner when in the Workout app is suddenly perfectly readable out on the run, and that’s just one example.

Just sayin’…. The things that are cosmetics or just nice to haves for you, can be essential for another.

Yes but I’m referring to the case use of the original poster I was quoting. Of course we are all different and have different needs, the poster I was referring too just may not see much additional value in the Ultra given that for basic workouts and hikes they all have you covered.

Edited for additional context.

 

[GDF]

Nomad opens preorders for Apple Watch Rugged Band in 'Ultra Orange' - 9to5Mac

Following up on releasing its popular Sport Band in Ultra Orange, Nomad has opened up orders for its Rugged Band...

9to5mac.com

Looks nice. Can’t decide if I like the black or silver hardware better.

Can’t believe their silver Titanium band is back ordered until March. They must have manufacturing issues.

 

[kuietstorm]

So which colour alpine loop does everyone like better? Green or orange?

Orange.

 

[tdbrown75]

Yes but the core functionality is the same. Unless the poster regularly runs out of battery during the day. The action button is nice but not essential. Screen is awesome but not essential. I’m speaking as an owner of both watches, and favours the Ultra by far.

If you’re not someone whose use case *absolutely* requires the specifics of the Ultra, and if you have to ask if it’ll be worth getting that suggests possibly not, it comes down to design or wanting it because it’s new. Both of which are valid if the buyer deems them to be.

But that’s just my opinion and I’m happy to be disagreed with 🙂

All fair points. I'm coming from the perspective that the "worth" cannot be determined by use case and/or design alone. The OP provided a couple use related scenarios but did not indicate that the scenarios were all that mattered. Not to mention "worth" is a relative term.

To really answer the question, we need the OP to define worth. Let's say for arguments sake it's a function of dollars versus perceived benefit. For example, the upgrade would be worth $800 if the features improved the watche's functionality by say, 50%.

Next you'd have to develop a weighted scorecard taking the various features and functionality, ask the OP to weight the scores based on their own opinion and preferences, and then grade each feature. You could tally the scores and measure the % of improvement.

Then and only then would you or I have a prayer of answering the question, so all we can do in the meantime is offer differing opinions, which I think we would both agree is the whole point of the forum (some may disagree). Only thing for certain is we both think it was worth it! 🙂

 

[imaginex20]

After two weeks owning my AWU, I have no regrets! The battery life is awesome, I can go three days without charging. Earlier I put on my 40mm Series 5 and it’s comically how small it is now. I don’t know why I never considered a bigger watch till now but the AWU just looks right. Some angles it looks thick but it sits better on my wrist now. And it looks more manly 😆

 

[tdbrown75]

And it looks more manly 😆

Yes, this! *braces self*

 

[newellj]

Looks nice. Can’t decide if I like the black or silver hardware better.

Can’t believe their silver Titanium band is back ordered until March. They must have manufacturing issues.

Or maybe just limited production capability and/or very high demand? (Don't know and not trying to be argumentative. ) The delivery date for that was November just a few weeks ago, and it's been sliding steadily since. It's got a great reputation and the price is extremely attractive relative to other high quality titanium bracelets.

 

[kmingis]

So which colour alpine loop does everyone like better? Green or orange?

Team orange checking in, but I do have a Starlight for mixing things up now and then.

 

[iluvgadgets]

I got the ultra with the loop band. Initially I didn’t like the band but it’s actually very comfortable. I have the starlight. I now want other colors. I hope they come out with some soon.

As for the watch, I like the longer battery life. I love the larger and always on display. I exercise some but not a lot, so I only use my Nike run app so far. I will try others.

I have another Apple Watch, so I alternate, depending on what I am doing. So far, I am enjoying my ultra.

 

[GDF]

Or maybe just limited production capability and/or very high demand? (Don't know and not trying to be argumentative. ) The delivery date for that was November just a few weeks ago, and it's been sliding steadily since. It's got a great reputation and the price is extremely attractive relative to other high quality titanium bracelets.

It does look really nice. Wish they could step up production.

 

[Swissfashion]

Team orange checking in, but I do have a Starlight for mixing things up now and then.

 

[Swissfashion]

So which colour alpine loop does everyone like better? Green or orange?

 

[Gibson88]

Has anyone (UK) had any experience exchange just a ultra band for another without returning the whole Watch?

 

[Craig6078]

Hi all.. Long time lurker over these forums.

I upgraded from S5 Nike to the AWU. I'm blown away by it. Love the design, battery life is epic for me. But bought mine in haste as they were selling out. need a bigger strap. but other than that this, this is the first Apple Product in a very long that had me on announcement, and thought i must have that. I got the Alpine Loop in orange and it looks amazing.

 

[Southernguy]

Has anyone (UK) had any experience exchange just an ultra band for another without returning the whole Watch?

Yeah my local store was fine with it. I was only changing from a medium alpine green to a large tho so not sure if it makes a difference if you’re changing to a completely different band.

 

[macsplusmacs]

Hi all.. Long time lurker over these forums.

I upgraded from S5 Nike to the AWU. I'm blown away by it. Love the design, battery life is epic for me. But bought mine in haste as they were selling out. need a bigger strap. but other than that this, this is the first Apple Product in a very long that had me on announcement, and thought i must have that. I got the Alpine Loop in orange and it looks amazing.

To me it feels like a different apple watch.

But it's the same apple watch.

Apple gladly crossed and combined them both without giving up anything that makes them special and so very useful.

I really do think the Ultra is the product of the year for Apple.

 

[macsplusmacs]

Addicted to Orange 🍊Alpine🍊 Loop.

As soon as I do my spring cleaning though, I will try and find my Series 0 stainless steel bracelet and compare.

 

[CaptMarvel]

I ordered the black/gray trail loop from Verizon on Wednesday and it arrived last night. Now having all Ultra bands that are available here’s my opinion on how they stack up to each other.

Alpine - The design of the alpine loop far proceeds its reputation and look better than the ocean and trail loops (especially in orange). The hook to secure the band is beautiful. Great as a daily driver, but I wouldn’t wear it for a sweaty workout. As expected it gets dirty quickly, so frequent washing depending on your lifestyle.

Trail - The trail loop seems like the Sport Loop/Nike Sport Loop 2.0. It’s unbelievably soft and thin. Great for workouts as well or even a daily driver. Doesn’t retain as much sweat with the thinner build but will need to be hand washed occasionally. Velcro is very secure and has the adjustability out of all the Ultra bands.

Ocean - True workhorse. An incredible improvement over the original silicone band that comes with the original Apple Watch. Material is super malleable and softer than it looks. Whether during workouts, outside tasks or a daily driver the ocean band does not disappoint. Most dirt/debris can be wiped away; be weary of the holes that may need occasional cleaning too.

For my use case, the Ocean Band fits the bill for running and other sweaty workouts. The Trail Loop can suffice for workouts and daily wear. Alpine is strictly for casual wear.

I think all three bands are great with their own caveats.

 

[AnthroMatt]

View attachment 2104604

I ordered the black/gray trail loop from Verizon on Wednesday and it arrived last night. Now having all Ultra bands that are available here’s my opinion on how they stack up to each other.

Alpine - The design of the alpine loop far proceeds its reputation and look better than the ocean and trail loops (especially in orange). The hook to secure the band is beautiful. Great as a daily driver, but I wouldn’t wear it for a sweaty workout. As expected it gets dirty quickly, so frequent washing depending on your lifestyle.

Trail - The trail loop seems like the Sport Loop/Nike Sport Loop 2.0. It’s unbelievably soft and thin. Great for workouts as well or even a daily driver. Doesn’t retain as much sweat with the thinner build but will need to be hand washed occasionally. Velcro is very secure and has the adjustability out of all the Ultra bands.

Ocean - True workhorse. An incredible improvement over the original silicone band that comes with the original Apple Watch. Material is super malleable and softer than it looks. Whether during workouts, outside tasks or a daily driver the ocean band does not disappoint. Most dirt/debris can be wiped away; be weary of the holes that may need occasional cleaning too.

For my use case, the Ocean Band fits the bill for running and other sweaty workouts. The Trail Loop can suffice for workouts and daily wear. Alpine is strictly for casual wear.

I think all three bands are great with their own caveats.

I got my band from Verizon yesterday too, and I agree with the entirety of your post. I have one of each band type and it’s perfect. Ocean band will be used in the ocean! Trail and Alpine for outdoor, land-based activities and every day use

 

[kmingis]

View attachment 2104604

I ordered the black/gray trail loop from Verizon on Wednesday and it arrived last night. Now having all Ultra bands that are available here’s my opinion on how they stack up to each other.

Alpine - The design of the alpine loop far proceeds its reputation and look better than the ocean and trail loops (especially in orange). The hook to secure the band is beautiful. Great as a daily driver, but I wouldn’t wear it for a sweaty workout. As expected it gets dirty quickly, so frequent washing depending on your lifestyle.

Trail - The trail loop seems like the Sport Loop/Nike Sport Loop 2.0. It’s unbelievably soft and thin. Great for workouts as well or even a daily driver. Doesn’t retain as much sweat with the thinner build but will need to be hand washed occasionally. Velcro is very secure and has the adjustability out of all the Ultra bands.

Ocean - True workhorse. An incredible improvement over the original silicone band that comes with the original Apple Watch. Material is super malleable and softer than it looks. Whether during workouts, outside tasks or a daily driver the ocean band does not disappoint. Most dirt/debris can be wiped away; be weary of the holes that may need occasional cleaning too.

For my use case, the Ocean Band fits the bill for running and other sweaty workouts. The Trail Loop can suffice for workouts and daily wear. Alpine is strictly for casual wear.

I think all three bands are great with their own caveats.

What a great comparison! I have two Alpines (Starlight and Orange) and the Midnight Ocean and agree with your take on them. (Trail loop on order for delivery mid-November.)

 

[HekkeySE]

Just got my leather link. Love it!