Overview
- Testing found the Ultra 3’s direct satellite emergency calling connects reliably, including in dense urban settings and Silicon Valley demos.
- All cellular versions of the new lineup now support 5G, boosting future-proofing even though speed gains on a smartwatch are limited.
- Battery targets held up in reviews, with Ultra 3 rated up to 42 hours, Series 11 around 24, and SE 3 about 18, alongside faster top-ups.
- SE 3 delivers the biggest step forward for the price, adding an always-on display, a wrist temperature sensor, quicker performance and a strong value verdict.
- WatchOS 26 brings a new sleep index and will warn of sustained blood-pressure rises on eligible models after weeks of data collection once approved, and satellite texting availability differs by country.