When Apple released the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in September, it immediately became clear that it was nearly identical to its predecessor. This suggests that Apple has significant changes planned for the wearable device in 2024 with the Apple Watch Ultra 3. However, this assumption may be wrong. There may not be a new version of the Apple Watch Ultra until 2024, after all.
According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, no work is currently being done on the next Apple Watch Ultra, which is unusual given the traditional product development timeline. However, there may be some solid reasons for this.
Kuo says Apple may delay the release of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 to focus on developing cutting-edge health-management features and ensuring the manufacturability of those features. The company may also spend time solving challenges associated with microLED production. The new Apple Watches are rumored to switch from OLED to MicroLED technology.
The analyst says that if Apple does not release a new model of Apple Watch Ultra next year, sales of this particular model may decline by 20% to 30% compared to last year. Apple Watch shipments may also fall 10% to about 35 million units.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the first Apple Watch Ultra, launching in September 2022, are surprisingly similar. In fact, outwardly they are alike. Inside, the new models include the all-new S9 chipset, which is also present in this year’s Apple Watch Series 9.
The new S9 chip enables faster Siri capabilities while providing onboard access to health data. Additionally, the always-on LTPO OLED display now offers a peak brightness of up to 3,000 nits. The previous version offered a peak brightness of up to 2,000 nits. In low light conditions, this now reduces to 1 nit.
The new model also offers twice the onboard storage (64GB), a 72-hour low-power mode, and a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip. Apple Watch Ultra 2 users can also use the new Double Tap feature.
All that is to say, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 should be a more capable smartwatch for years to come. Despite this, it would be strange to see two consecutive Apple Watch Ultra releases for two years and then nothing in 2024. Only time will tell what exactly happens, but it’s definitely something to keep an eye on.
