Apple keynote: Apple Watch Series 8, SE 2 and Ultra unveiled

Apple once again presented some technical highlights during its annual September keynote. Although the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro were in the spotlight, there was also news from Cupertino regarding smartwatches. The U.S. tech company has presented three new models, the Apple Watch Series 8, SE 2 and Ultra.

Apple Watch Series 8 wants to provide for baby happiness

At first glance, the latest version of the Apple Watch does not show any differences from its predecessor. However, this is nothing new. After all, Apple is not exactly known for revolutionary design leaps with its smartwatch. Instead, they always focus on changes in the inner workings. This is also the case with the Apple Watch Series 8, which now features a new sensor that is supposed to be able to determine the body temperature. We know this from the Huawei Watch D presented at IFA 2022, among others. However, while we still asked ourselves the question why a temperature sensor is needed with the smartwatch from the Chinese tech company, Apple provides us with the suitable answer.

Thus, this is to be aimed specifically at women and their health. In particular, the tracking of one’s period is in the foreground. Apple even goes so far as to implement an algorithm that indicates previous ovulation. Thus, the Apple Watch Series 8 could help couples to have offspring. In practice, the measurement works as follows. According to the manufacturer, it automatically measures the wearer’s body temperature every five seconds. But that’s about it for the new features. Indeed, the other sensors were already used in the Apple Watch of the last generation.

Apple Watch Series 8 becomes a first responder in traffic accidents

As with the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro, a new motion sensor is also used in the Apple Watch Series 8. According to Apple, this should be able to detect different accidents. Should the accelerometer measure conspicuous values that indicate an accident, emergency contacts are informed on request, for example. The watch is also supposed to be able to send an emergency call including GPS. Apple thus succeeds in consistently expanding the proven fall detection, which has already been working in the Apple Watch. By the way, the new accident detection is supposed to get better and better over time. Machine learning makes this possible. Those who do not think much of the function and fear false alarms, can of course also deactivate it.

Apple Watch SE 2 is the new entry-level smartwatch

Those who do not want to spend too much money on a smartwatch, but by no means want to stay away from the Apple cosmos, are offered the second generation of the entry-level smartwatch with the Apple Watch SE 2. Visually, you can hardly distinguish it from the first generation. Once again, you can choose between two different sizes – 40 mm or 44 mm. Apple relies on lightweight and resistant aluminum for the case.

Although you can hardly distinguish the Apple Watch SE 2 visually from its predecessor, there are said to have been some changes under the hood. Apple promises a fifth more performance than its predecessor. Like the Apple Watch Series 8, the affordable SE 2 should also be able to offer the new accident detection. Consequently, the same new sensors are used. Other sensors are missing, which also justifies the lower price. For example, no ECG can also be measured with the new Apple Watch SE 2.

Apple Watch Ultra is the new flagship

The tech company from California is particularly proud of its new Apple Watch Ultra. Here name seems to be program. Thus, the smartwatch not only sets itself apart from the other two newcomers with its gigantic size of 49 mm. There are also clear differences in the design, which does without rounded corners and has the courage to use edges like the iPhone. Due to the angular case, the display glass is flat and no longer rounded. The choice of materials also emphasizes the flagship aspect. The case is supposed to be made of high-quality titanium.

The size also results in greater ease of use. For instance, Apple was able to unceremoniously enlarge the iconic crown, which is the centerpiece when it comes to controls. Furthermore, Apple brings the Ultra smartwatch exclusively as a Cellular version and does not offer a GPS variant. Improved speakers, a revised microphone and an integrated siren round off the features. On top of that, there is of course a bigger battery. Apple promises a battery life of 36 hours. That would put the other models in the shade.

Otherwise, of course, it also offers the new sensors of the Apple Watch Series 8. The fact that you can wear an Apple Watch while swimming is not new. But the Apple Watch Ultra goes one step further. You should be able to use it up to a water depth of 40 meters without any problems. This makes it probably the optimal smartwatch for divers. Apple has therefore had its latest flagship certified as a dive computer. The appropriate app for diving trips is to be directly on board.

Prices and availability

Apple Watch Series 8 and Apple Watch SE 2 will go on sale on September 16. The new Apple Watch Ultra, in turn, is scheduled to launch on September 23. For the Series 8, Apple is asking from 499 euros (GPS) or 619 euros (LTE + GPS). The price for the SE 2 is again said to be 299 euros for 40 mm or. 339 euros for 44 mm will start. For the Apple Watch Ultra, the manufacturer wants to charge a whopping 999 euros.