What’s New on Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3 and SE 3

Introduction

What's New in watchOS 26? 
Before diving into the hardware, it’s worth noting that all three new watches ship with watchOS 26, which introduces major upgrades across the board. Key highlights include:

Sleep Score 

AI-driven coaching that tailors real-time training guidance for running, cycling, and strength exercises.

Apple Watch Series 11 vs Series 10

Key Upgrades

The Apple Watch Series 11 refines Apple’s mainstream watch with meaningful everyday improvements:

• Battery Life: Extended to 24 hours of regular use (up from ~18 hours on Series 10). This makes overnight sleep tracking more reliable without nightly charging.

• Durability: New ceramic-coated Ion-X glass on aluminium models provides twice the scratch resistance compared to Series 10.

• Connectivity: The first Apple Watch to support 5G, offering faster speeds and more reliable streaming or calls without your iPhone.

• Fast Charging: Just 15 minutes on the charger delivers up to 8 hours of use, reducing downtime significantly.

• Health Sensors: Improved wrist temperature accuracy and expanded readings in the Vitals app for a more complete picture of daily health.

• Always-On Retina display with better brightness and wider angles.
• Expanded gesture controls like wrist flick for faster interactions.
• Seamless integration with watchOS 26’s new health features such as Hypertension notifications.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs Ultra 2

Key Upgrades
 
The Ultra line continues to be Apple’s rugged, adventure-ready watch. Compared to the Ultra 2, the Ultra 3 offers:

• Battery Life: Now up to 42 hours of normal use (vs 36 hours on Ultra 2) and 72 hours in Low Power Mode (vs 60 hours).

• Display Efficiency: Retains the 3,000-nit Retina display, but with improved energy efficiency and better viewing angles in harsh sunlight.

• Satellite Messaging: New for Ultra 3, enabling communication when you’re off the grid - an essential safety tool for outdoor explorers.
• Maps & Compass: Expanded offline maps with smarter waypoints and trail guidance.
• Durability: Same lightweight titanium body, but now paired with stronger sapphire crystal for added toughness.

• Action Button has expanded functions - now customizable for torch mode, navigation shortcuts, or health apps.
• Enhanced outdoor metrics such as tide data, altitude performance, and improved GPS accuracy.
• Safety features like crash detection and siren remain, but now enhanced with satellite fallback.

 

Singapore Price
 
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is priced from S$1,199 in Singapore, available only in a 49mm titanium case with GPS + Cellular.

Apple Watch SE 3 vs SE 2
 


Key Upgrades
 
Apple’s entry-level watch has received its biggest jump yet. Compared to SE 2, the SE 3 now includes:

• Processor: Upgraded to the S10 chip, the same chip used in Series 11 and Ultra 3. This delivers smoother animations, faster app launches, and longer software support.
• Display: For the first time, the SE gains an Always-On Retina display, previously reserved for higher-end models.
• Charging: Adds fast charging, reaching 80% in ~45 minutes.
• Sensors: Introduces wrist temperature tracking, retrospective ovulation insights, and more advanced safety monitoring.

• On-device Siri processing, meaning faster responses even without internet.
• watchOS 26 gestures like wrist flick and double tap.
• Stronger Ion-X glass for better crack resistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3 and SE 3
 

1. When will the new Apple Watches be available in Singapore?

All three models: Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3 - were unveiled on 9 September 2025, with official availability in Singapore from 19 September 2025.

2. What are the main differences between Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3?

• Series 11: Balanced choice for most users, with 24-hour battery life, 5G support, and tougher glass.

• Ultra 3: Rugged model for adventurers, with 42-hour battery, satellite messaging, and titanium durability.

• SE 3: Entry-level model with Always-On display and fast charging at the most affordable price.
  
   

3. Is it worth upgrading from Series 10 to Series 11?

Yes, if you value better battery life, stronger durability, and 5G connectivity. If your Series 10 is still in good condition and battery is not an issue, you may wait another cycle.

4. How does the Ultra 3 compare to Ultra 2?

The Ultra 3 adds satellite messaging, longer battery endurance, stronger sapphire glass, and smarter outdoor tools. If you frequently hike, dive, or explore remote areas, the upgrade is worthwhile.

5. What makes SE 3 better than SE 2?

The SE 3 finally gets Always-On display, the faster S10 processor, fast charging, and wrist temperature tracking - big upgrades over SE 2, making it the best value option in the lineup.

6. How much do the new Apple Watches cost in Singapore?

• Apple Watch SE 3: From S$349

• Apple Watch Series 11: From S$599

• Apple Watch Ultra 3: From S$1,199

7. Do all models support watchOS 26 features?

Yes, but availability may vary slightly. For example, hypertension alerts and Sleep Score work best with the newer health sensors found in Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3.

8. Can I use my existing Apple Watch bands with the new models?

Yes. Apple maintains band compatibility across generations, so most bands from older models will fit Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3.

9. How long do these watches take to charge?

• Series 11 and SE 3: About 15 minutes charge for up to 8 hours use, 0–80% in about 45 minutes.

• Ultra 3: Supports similar fast charging, reaching a full day’s use with a short top-up.

10. Which Apple Watch is best for me?

• Choose SE 3 if you want affordability with modern features.

• Choose Series 11 if you want the latest tech, strong health tracking, and all-day battery.

• Choose Ultra 3 if you need rugged durability, satellite connectivity, and multi-day endurance.

Conclusion

The 2025 Apple Watch lineup makes the upgrade path clearer than ever:

• Apple Watch Series 11 is the sweet spot for most people, offering stronger durability, all-day battery life, and 5G connectivity at a reasonable price.

• Apple Watch Ultra 3 is the premium choice for adventurers, with satellite messaging, longer endurance, and rugged build quality - a clear step up from Ultra 2.

• Apple Watch SE 3 delivers exceptional value, gaining flagship performance and features like Always-On display and fast charging while keeping its affordable price tag.

Whether you’re after affordability, all-round versatility, or extreme adventure gear, Apple’s new lineup has a watch tailored to your lifestyle.

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