Apple Watch Ultra 3 rumors: What should you believe?

In this day and age, it’s easy to get bogged down with all the fake information floating around, especially when it comes to new tech releases. But have no fear; that’s why we’ve come together to talk about the Apple Watch Ultra 3 rumors, which ones seem to be legit, and which ones you can overlook.  

At Back Market, we pride ourselves on giving you the best information possible, so you can make the right buying decision for yourself. 

✨ Upgrades coming after a long wait

After a long two-year wait, the rumor mill is starting to churn with hints at a release of the Apple Watch Ultra 3, and in short, the Ultra 3 will catch up to the Series 10 and 11 features that the Ultra 2 missed out on, adding 5G, satellite, and health upgrades, while sticking to the Ultra’s rugged design. And, it could all be happening in the next few months.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 key rumored features 

Analysts from around the world report a host of new capabilities set to debut on the Ultra 3. Let’s cover some of the major rumored upgrades.  

When we think about these rumored features all together, it looks like the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is getting most of its upgrades done under the hood, while the look and feel of the watch will stay similar to previous models. 

Advanced health tracking 

Apple may finally add blood pressure (hypertension) detection to the update. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 could alert users to rising blood pressure trends, without giving exact readings. This is a feature that’s been in development for years.  

✨ Key takeaway: Health tracking might be getting an update with real-time blood pressure tracking. 

Improved connectivity 

The Ultra 3 is expected to get satellite messaging (independent of an iPhone) for off-grid texting, plus 5G cellular connectivity. Current Apple Watch Ultras are LTE only. The new model will use a MediaTek 5G modem to enable RedCap speeds without a heavy battery penalty. 

✨ Key takeaway: 5G and off-grid texting might be just around the corner. 

New chip & display

After two years of the S9 chip, the Ultra 3 will use Apple’s latest watch silicon, possibly S10 or S11, for better efficiency and performance. Rumors say Apple will match the Series 10’s LTPO3 OLED panel, which is brighter at angles with a faster always-on refresh rate. Some analysts even speculated about an Ultra 3 microLED screen for higher brightness and efficiency, though 2024 reports suggest Apple may have delayed that plan.  

✨ Key takeaway: Rumors suggest that the Ultra 3 may be getting a chip and display upgrade for higher brightness and better efficiency. 

Faster charging and more durability

The Ultra 3 is likely to adopt the Series 10’s all-metal rear casing, ditching the current ceramic back. This would allow for a larger charging coil and faster charging speeds. The Series 10 charges to 80% in 30 minutes over Ultra 2’s 60 minutes to 80%.  

✨ Key takeaway: Longer-lasting quality and faster charging speeds are around the corner with the Apple Watch Ultra 3 rumored release. 

Potential differences between the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Ultra 3 

The current Ultra 2 is the most advanced Apple Watch available, but the Ultra 3 is expected to add several key improvements, with the Ultra 2’s ceramic-and-sapphire rear and S9 chip being replaced by a metal back and a faster processor. Below are the main biggest rumored changes compared to 2023’s Ultra 2 model.  

Chipset: The Ultra 2 uses the S9 chip, while Ultra 3 should get Apple’s next chip, the S10 or S11, freeing up some space for extra components.  

Display: The Ultra 2 has an LTPO2 OLED display. The Ultra 3 is likely to adopt LTPO3 technology from Series 10 for a live second hand in Always-On mode and 40% wider viewing angles. The microLED display whispers are still just rumors. The Ultra 3 might eventually get one, but recent reports suggest Apple may hold off.  

Connectivity: Current Apple Watch Ultra models are 4G/LTE only. The Ultra 3 is expected to add 5G RedCap for cellular connections. It could also gain standalone satellite texting, like SOS via Satellite, so the watch can send off-grid messages without an iPhone.  

Back and charging: The Ultra 2’s ceramic back is likely to be replaced by a metal back in the Ultra 3. This metal design allows faster Qi charging.  

Health sensors: The Ultra 2 lacks true blood pressure monitoring. The Ultra 3 is rumored to add a hypertension alert. Both will still include ECG, heart rate, and blood oxygen hardware (the latter remains off in US models due to a patent dispute).    ✨ Key takeaway: The Ultra 2 is the most advanced Apple Watch available, but the Ultra 3 is expected to add several key improvements. 

Quick glance 

Is the Ultra 3 worth the wait?

At the end of the day, the current Apple Watch Ultra 2 is an absolute powerhouse of a smartwatch, and will give you everything you're looking for. We have some excellent Apple Ultra choices on Back Market. But, if patience is one of your virtues, the Ultra 3 might just repay you in kind, if the rumors are to be believed.   

You'll get a brighter, larger display with a newer chip, satellite messaging, and potential blood-pressure sensing, which offers real upgrades for everyone from explorers to athletes. If you want the latest in cutting-edge performance and advanced health tools, then wait. If you're getting everything you need from the Ultra 2, or it offers what you're looking for, grab a deal today.