Ultra 4 in Sept 2026?

[BigMcGuire]

My thoughts exactly. Especially in EU even software updates are mostly something we don't get, so biggest updates are just hardware related. I mean I can't really much tell the difference between WatchOS 8 and watchOS 26, only some added health or hardware related features but mostly other functions are 1:1 and the same goes with IOS and MacOS. Mostly noticeable things are new wallpapers and watch faces here.

Yeah it has really not gone anywhere. You look at someone with a Series 3 and it's ... (my own opinion here) 90% the same. lol.

I appreciate it for what it is. There's millions of people using AW - tho I think the market is saturated and they've lost users in the last few years.

Surprised they haven't done a fitness tracker or other things. But I guess for most people it does what they want. I know it does what we want (my wife and I).

 

[1rottenapple]

Yeah it has really not gone anywhere. You look at someone with a Series 3 and it's ... (my own opinion here) 90% the same. lol.

I appreciate it for what it is. There's millions of people using AW - tho I think the market is saturated and they've lost users in the last few years.

Surprised they haven't done a fitness tracker or other things. But I guess for most people it does what they want. I know it does what we want (my wife and I).

Hmmm maybe that's why MR front page has non apple news. I know its been rehash in another thread but there's only so much rumors you can post when they all the same or slight variation from last year. I know I've been guilty of posting sarcastic comments lol

 

[JPack]

Then why we have already seen several videos showing iPhone fold and iPhone 18 series dummy units for case makers? Why all the sudden AWU dummy is well kept secret by them if they keep showing the iPhone dummies. Does not make any sense to me.

IMHO, based on no CAD files or dummy units of AWU, there will be no design changes in casing.

Because iPhone Ultra draws far more clicks and is more popular than Watch Ultra. This means leakers can charge more. Men, women, and children know what an iPhone is. Most women could not care less about wearing a clock on their wrist.

This has always been the case. There were no public dummy units or CAD files for MacBook Neo even though the device was well into production by December 2025. Most leaks are more valuable to case makers.

 

[jz0309]

Because iPhone Ultra draws far more clicks and is more popular than Watch Ultra. This means leakers can charge more. Men, women, and children know what an iPhone is. Most women could not care less about wearing a clock on their wrist.

This has always been the case. There were no public dummy units or CAD files for MacBook Neo even though the device was well into production by December 2025. Most leaks are more valuable to case makers.

This.
And, in the last 10 years rumors/leaks on AW have been sparse, and then most were plain wrong.
I'll wait to see what Apple announces in Sep and then make decisions based on that.

 

[sdante]

Because iPhone Ultra draws far more clicks and is more popular than Watch Ultra. This means leakers can charge more.

Could be but still if rumored big redesign is happening this year it would make sense there would be some hard evidence (=leaked dummy photos or cad files) already. Both watch and iPhone are products where cases and screen protectors are selling a lot unlike MacBooks.

Men, women, and children know what an iPhone is. Most women could not care less about wearing a clock on their wrist.

Actually I see frequently matured women (those who wear smartwatch generally) wear Apple Watch. For example my wife has 3 Apple Watches (two of them in regular use). I have 4 pcs.

Personally I use Apple Watch a lot. For example when I'm at home, I rather use my for AW for phone calls and many other things instead of iPhone.

 

[TSE]

Yes, they are releasing it.

The newest feature is going to be SCREWING CUSTOMERS OVER AFTER 3 YEARS by LOCKING THEM OUT OF UPDATES THEY EARNED by PAYING $800 FOR A FREAKING WATCH!

 

[Macdctr]

Yes, they are releasing it.

The newest feature is going to be SCREWING CUSTOMERS OVER AFTER 3 YEARS by LOCKING THEM OUT OF UPDATES THEY EARNED by PAYING $800 FOR A FREAKING WATCH!

You can pick up an AWU2 from Amazon for $396 (Refurbished Excellent condition) then have iOS support and not complain about something you have absolutely no control over, although based on your recent posts and threads I have a feeling that you will always find something to complain and whine over. You’re a consumer as far as Apple is concerned, remember that. You don’t make policies or provide direct input into ANY of the decision making processes that goes on within Apple. I don’t like seeing this any more than you do when spending upwards of $800 for a digital “smart” watch but it is what it is.

You can either erase your current AWU1 then sell it for as much as you can get for it and apply that money towards a newer version of the AWU or you can pass down your current watch to a family member and purchase a new AWU and still hate Apple’s policies. Heck, I don’t agree how Apple disregards older tech when it can still support the new software but we don’t make the decisions Apple executives make regarding which devices they will support going forward.

Below is a link for a cheap AWU2 that you can purchase without the sting of having to purchase full Apple pricing for a brand new AWU.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 [GPS + Cellular, 49mm] - Titanium Case with Blue Ocean Band, One Size (Renewed)

Apple Watch Ultra 2 [GPS + Cellular, 49mm] - Titanium Case with Blue Ocean Band, One Size (Renewed)

www.amazon.com

Staying angry at Apple over something you have no control over puts you in the same exact place you’re currently at. Let the anger go . . . staying angry over this won’t change anything. It is not worth blowing a gasket over something you have no control over then making ridiculous threads like this because you’re angry. Please get a grip on your anger and realize this is Apple’s decision whether you like it or not, you’re nothing but a consumer in Apple’s eyes. As I have stated, I’m not a fan of Apple discontinuing support for products that clearly can run the new OS. I saw this from the Macintosh side and have been equally frustrated but never bitched and moaned, like a kid having a temper tantrum, about this on the open forum. I realized doing so does no good in the long run. Just move on, embrace the new technology or get an analog watch or even a Casio watch as others have recommended. At least you still have total control on which products to choose for your use case👍🏽

As I stated earlier, I don’t like this at all but the reality is use your current watch as you still can use it or upgrade to a new or different one.

On iPhones, I have the Air and 17 Pro yet I’m still daily using my 15 Pro with my 13 mini instead because the older iPhones work well. Point being if your AWU1 is still working well for you then keep using it👍🏽 It is still an awesome watch which will still continue getting security updates from Apple.

 

[Spacegray]

You can pick up an AWU2 from Amazon for $396 (Refurbished Excellent condition) then have iOS support and not complain about something you have absolutely no control over, although based on your recent posts and threads I have a feeling that you will always find something to complain and whine over. You’re a consumer as far as Apple is concerned, remember that. You don’t make policies or provide direct input into ANY of the decision making processes that goes on within Apple. I don’t like seeing this any more than you do when spending upwards of $800 for a digital “smart” watch but it is what it is.

You can either erase your current AWU1 then sell it for as much as you can get for it and apply that money towards a newer version of the AWU or you can pass down your current watch to a family member and purchase a new AWU and still hate Apple’s policies. Heck, I don’t agree how Apple disregards older tech when it can still support the new software but we don’t make the decisions Apple executives make regarding which devices they will support going forward.

Below is a link for a cheap AWU2 that you can purchase without the sting of having to purchase full Apple pricing for a brand new AWU.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 [GPS + Cellular, 49mm] - Titanium Case with Blue Ocean Band, One Size (Renewed)

Apple Watch Ultra 2 [GPS + Cellular, 49mm] - Titanium Case with Blue Ocean Band, One Size (Renewed)

www.amazon.com

Staying angry at Apple over something you have no control over puts you in the same exact place you’re currently at. Let the anger go . . . staying angry over this won’t change anything. It is not worth blowing a gasket over something you have no control over then making threads like this because you’re angry. Please get a grip on your anger and realize this is Apple’s decision whether you like it or not, you’re nothing but a consumer in Apple’s eyes. As I have stated, I’m not a fan of Apple discontinuing support for products that clearly can run the new OS. I saw this from the Macintosh side and have been equally frustrated but never bitched and moaned about this on the open forum. I realized doing so does no good in the long run. Just move on, embrace the new technology or get an analog watch or even a Casio watch as others have recommended. At least you still have total control on which products to choose for your use case👍🏽

As I stated earlier, I don’t like this at all but the reality is use your current watch as you still can use it or upgrade to a new or different one.

On iPhones, I have the Air and 17 Pro yet I’m still daily using my 15 Pro with my 13 mini instead because the older iPhones work well. Point being if your AWU1 is still working well for you then keep using it👍🏽 It is still an awesome watch which will still continue getting security updates from Apple.

Or just .... relax and use the watch for what it was made for.

 

[The Game 161]

not making same mistake as last year selling my ultra 2 and getting ultra 3.

my ultra 3 will last another year if there is basically no differences

 

[thecautioners]

Yes, they are releasing it.

The newest feature is going to be SCREWING CUSTOMERS OVER AFTER 3 YEARS by LOCKING THEM OUT OF UPDATES THEY EARNED by PAYING $800 FOR A FREAKING WATCH!

I’m not super stoked about the cessation of updates to my Ultra 1, but I mean, I’ve had a great almost 4 year run with her.

I think I’m an odd one (far) out though because I bought the Ultra solely for the battery life. Did I need the ruggedness, features, remote connectivity of the Ultra? Absolutely not, especially considering I’ve been mostly physically disabled** up until very recently. I’m just an apple fangirl who wanted stellar battery life. But nowadays my 1 gets me about 1.5 days, whereas iirc it got me 3 days on a single charge brand new. IMO, I’m ready for an upgrade.

**crippling chronic pain and morbid obesity. But I’ve lost 66 pounds and counting, and last month I received my first set of steroid injections into my SI joints (lower back), and for the first time since I was 16 years old I am completely pain free. I’ve been SO active in the past few weeks because of it, that I actually slightly injured my knee doing more than my body was ever used to doing 😅 I also got a dog in January as an exercise buddy so I’ve been getting out a ton with him; so maybe it won’t be as wildly overkill for me to own an Ultra moving forward 🤞🏼🤞🏼🤞🏼

 

[tcuprof]

If even some of the rumors are true (more health measures, thinner, etc.), I'll probably upgrade from my U1 this year. About the only thing that would definitely stop me from upgrading would be a change that required new bands.

 

[BillyBurke]

If even some of the rumors are true (more health measures, thinner, etc.), I'll probably upgrade from my U1 this year. About the only thing that would definitely stop me from upgrading would be a change that required new bands.

Same issue with the watch bands. I have titanium band on my Ultra2 that I really like. New band requirement would push me into retaining my U2. Which is really, really all I need (harsh standard...) Anyway.

 

[BigMcGuire]

Same issue with the watch bands. I have titanium band on my Ultra2 that I really like. New band requirement would push me into retaining my U2. Which is really, really all I need (harsh standard...) Anyway.

I just got the Titanium band this year. My favorite band by miles. Ditto with my AWU3.

 

[dansstuff1979]

This is an interesting thread as I'm about to treat myself to an Apple Watch Ultra and wondering whether to go for a new 3 or wait for the 4 to come out.

I'm still using my 15 Pro Max as its literally like new still, absolutely faultless, on 89% battery and it does all I need.

But I've not had an Apple watch for years and I like the Ultra as I think it'll suit my big hands

Amazon UK have the 3 for just over £600 currently brand new. I've got £100 of vouchers on there too, so that price point really appeals

I think the new 4 will be close to £800 if not more, does that sound about right?

 

[jz0309]

This is an interesting thread as I'm about to treat myself to an Apple Watch Ultra and wondering whether to go for a new 3 or wait for the 4 to come out.

I'm still using my 15 Pro Max as its literally like new still, absolutely faultless, on 89% battery and it does all I need.

But I've not had an Apple watch for years and I like the Ultra as I think it'll suit my big hands

Amazon UK have the 3 for just over £600 currently brand new. I've got £100 of vouchers on there too, so that price point really appeals

I think the new 4 will be close to £800 if not more, does that sound about right?

I believe apple sells the U3 in the UK for 799 (I'm in the US so not 100% sure) and I am almost 100% certain that the U4 will be sold at at least the price, whether or not we'll get a price increase with the U4, only Apple knows at this point. after all iPhone and AW were "spared" in the price hike a moth or so ago ...
As far as features/specs for the U4, mostly rumors and the only rumor I do believe is that the SOC will get an update, everything else is guess work.
if you feel that the U3 is going to meet your needs, and you can get it at a discount, go for it.

 

[dansstuff1979]

I believe apple sells the U3 in the UK for 799 (I'm in the US so not 100% sure) and I am almost 100% certain that the U4 will be sold at at least the price, whether or not we'll get a price increase with the U4, only Apple knows at this point. after all iPhone and AW were "spared" in the price hike a moth or so ago ...
As far as features/specs for the U4, mostly rumors and the only rumor I do believe is that the SOC will get an update, everything else is guess work.
if you feel that the U3 is going to meet your needs, and you can get it at a discount, go for it.

Exactly what I'm thinking

I'm not a power user by any means - and I think the price currently is very competitive, more so as I have vouchers to use.

 

[jz0309]

Exactly what I'm thinking

I'm not a power user by any means - and I think the price currently is very competitive, more so as I have vouchers to use.

but the vouchers could be used towards a new U4 too from Amazon, right?
Regardless, there might be better discounts on U3 after the U4 is out, or, there might be discounts on the U4 as we approach xmas time ... depends on how "badly" you want a new AW now. I know this isnt' going to help you but just laying out some other alternatives ...

 

[dansstuff1979]

but the vouchers could be used towards a new U4 too from Amazon, right?
Regardless, there might be better discounts on U3 after the U4 is out, or, there might be discounts on the U4 as we approach xmas time ... depends on how "badly" you want a new AW now. I know this isnt' going to help you but just laying out some other alternatives ...

That I get but I'm currently watchless and it's annoying me haha

It's my birthday in a week's time, so thinking I'll treat myself to the watch then

 

[jz0309]

That I get but I'm currently watchless and it's annoying me haha

It's my birthday in a week's time, so thinking I'll treat myself to the watch then

Happy early birthday, its going to be a nice present/gift!

 

[dansstuff1979]

Happy early birthday, its going to be a nice present/gift!

Cheers. Hoping so...

I think I'll upgrade to the 18 Pro Max when it comes out as well. My 15PM is faultless, but I am using AI a lot more and the larger processing power will help a lot

 

[BigMcGuire]

Cheers. Hoping so...

I think I'll upgrade to the 18 Pro Max when it comes out as well. My 15PM is faultless, but I am using AI a lot more and the larger processing power will help a lot

My Ultra 3 is the best watch I’ve ever owned. I’m very happy with it - might try to keep it 5 years. Who knows. I wear it 24/7 except when showering. Great watch. Early happy birthday! Let us know how it goes. Welcome to MacRumors!

 

[Macdctr]

I have been on my AWU2 since it came out and have been happy with this watch on the most part. That is until the EU law suit which caused Apple to disable blood O2 readings on this watch. I now have this feature restored and with the app O2 Buddy can have my blood O2 readings restored on my Apple Watch display. I have 90% battery health on my Apple watch and am still relatively happy using this watch . . . unless the AWU4 comes out with something better like blood pressure monitoring I may stay with my current watch since it is supported by WatchOS27. I can still use my AWU2 for a few more years with Apple support👍🏽

 

[jz0309]

I have been on my AWU2 since it came out and have been happy with this watch on the most part. That is until the EU law suit which caused Apple to disable blood O2 readings on this watch. I now have this feature restored and with the app O2 Buddy can have my blood O2 readings restored on my Apple Watch display. I have 90% battery health on my Apple watch and am still relatively happy using this watch . . . unless the AWU4 comes out with something better like blood pressure monitoring I may stay with my current watch since it is supported by WatchOS27. I can still use my AWU2 for a few more years with Apple support👍🏽

There is no "EU law" that caused Apple to disable SpO2 on watch, it was a patent lawsuit by Masimo, a US company and it only applied to watches sold in the US.
And if you got the U2 when it came out, SpO2 on the watch never got disabled, it was disabled several months after launch of the u2 on then newly sold watches, and at that time "advertised " not having the feature.

I got my U2 on launch day ...

 

[Macdctr]

There is no "EU law" that caused Apple to disable SpO2 on watch, it was a patent lawsuit by Masimo, a US company and it only applied to watches sold in the US.
And if you got the U2 when it came out, SpO2 on the watch never got disabled, it was disabled several months after launch of the u2 on then newly sold watches, and at that time "advertised " not having the feature.

I got my U2 on launch day ...

You’re right, there were no lawsuit however there was an ITC ban where the U.S. International Trade Commission ruled in favor of Masimo in late 2023, which resulted in Apple disabling their Blood Oxygen app affecting the series 9 and AWU2. In this case affecting me since I had purchased the AWU2.

The workaround was Apple implemented a processing update routing the data analysis through connected iPhones rather than directly on the watch hardware, which cleared customs approval. With that said, I use the O2 Buddy app on both my paired iPhone and AWU2 so I can have my Blood O2 readout on my watch display.

I stand corrected. I too got my AWU2 on launch day.

 

[The Game 161]

latest rumorus of ultra 4 doesn't sound that appealing again.