The Apple Watch Ultra 2 builds on Apple’s most rugged smartwatch design with some notable improvements. With its titanium case and bright display, it’s made for outdoor enthusiasts who need a watch that can handle tough conditions. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers impressive battery life, enhanced durability, and advanced fitness tracking features that make it worth considering for active users who want a premium smartwatch experience.
Available in a new black titanium finish, the Ultra 2 packs Apple’s latest S9 chip for faster performance and a display that reaches up to 3,000 nits of brightness. While it keeps the same basic design as the first Ultra model, it adds refinements that outdoor adventurers will appreciate, including better water resistance and more accurate GPS tracking.
Apple Watch Ultra 2 Review
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 builds on the foundation of its predecessor, delivering an upgraded experience for adventurers, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts. Originally released in September 2023 and refreshed in September 2024 with a black titanium finish, this watch represents Apple’s most rugged, capable, and versatile wearable to date. From the brightest display in Apple Watch history to advanced diving capabilities, Ultra 2 is built to push limits.
Design and Build Quality
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 features a single 49mm case size crafted from aerospace-grade titanium, offering a balance of durability and lightness. The introduction of a black titanium finish in 2024 provides more style choices for users who want a stealthier look. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters and certified for recreational diving up to 40 meters, making it ideal for serious aquatic activities. The large case may feel oversized for smaller wrists, but it adds to the rugged appeal and robust functionality of the device.
Rating: 5/5
Display
Apple significantly upgraded the display on the Ultra 2. It features an always-on Retina display capable of reaching 3,000 nits of brightness—double the brightness of the Series 9 and the original Ultra. This ensures excellent visibility even in bright sunlight. At the other end of the spectrum, it can dim to 1 nit in low-light conditions, a critical feature for nighttime or stealth operations. The automatic Night Mode activation enhances usability in dark environments without the need to manually adjust settings.
Rating: 5/5
Outdoor and Adventure Features
The Ultra 2 shines in outdoor and adventure scenarios. It includes dual-frequency GPS (L1 and L5), providing superior accuracy for tracking your route even in dense urban environments or remote locations. Features like the Wayfinder watch face with real-time elevation data, Backtrack for retracing steps, and the customizable Action Button make it an invaluable tool for hikers, climbers, and explorers. The built-in 86-decibel siren is a thoughtful addition for emergencies, capable of being heard from up to 600 feet away.
Rating: 5/5
Health and Fitness Tracking
Ultra 2 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of health sensors, including ECG, blood oxygen monitoring, heart rate tracking, temperature sensing, and sleep tracking. It offers advanced fitness features for endurance athletes and divers, such as precision dive data and a depth gauge with water temperature sensors. Apple’s integration of crash detection and fall detection adds additional safety for those engaging in high-risk activities.
Rating: 4.5/5
Performance and User Interface
Powered by Apple’s S9 SiP (System in Package), the Ultra 2 boasts a 60% increase in transistors and a 30% faster GPU compared to earlier models. The 4-core Neural Engine accelerates machine learning tasks, allowing for features like the Double Tap gesture to control the watch with minimal physical interaction. The interface remains smooth and intuitive, and Precision Finding for iPhone 15 enhances device tracking capabilities.
Rating: 5/5
Battery Life
Battery life on the Ultra 2 remains impressive, with up to 36 hours of normal use and 72 hours in Low Power Mode. While it doesn’t reach multi-week endurance seen in some dedicated sports watches, it’s more than sufficient for most outdoor adventures and training regimens. Apple’s efficient battery management allows for extended use without frequent charging.
Rating: 4/5
Environmental Impact
Apple emphasizes sustainability with the Ultra 2 by offering carbon-neutral options when paired with bands like the Alpine Loop and Trail Loop. The titanium casing is highly recyclable, and the device meets Apple’s growing commitment to environmental responsibility.
Rating: 4.5/5
Price and Value
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 starts at $799, a premium price point that includes cellular connectivity by default. While it’s expensive, it delivers a comprehensive set of features for serious athletes, adventurers, and tech enthusiasts who demand the best. However, those who do not require rugged features may find better value in the Series 10 or SE models.
Rating: 4/5
Apple Watch Ultra 2 Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Final Thoughts
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is an exceptional smartwatch that combines rugged durability with top-tier health and fitness tracking, making it the ultimate companion for adventurers and athletes. The brighter display, precision GPS, diving capabilities, and advanced sensors make it stand out in the wearables market. While the price tag is high and the size may not suit everyone, it’s hard to find a more capable smartwatch for extreme conditions and active lifestyles.
Key Takeaways
- The Apple Watch Ultra 2 combines rugged durability with premium smartwatch features in a titanium case with up to 100m water resistance.
- Battery life remains a strong point, with users not needing to worry about daily charging even with heavy use.
- The Ultra 2 excels as a city GPS smartwatch with great usability for everyday activities while still handling outdoor adventures.
Design and Build Quality
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 stands out with its rugged construction and premium materials. It balances durability with elegance in a way that appeals to both outdoor enthusiasts and everyday users.
Material and Durability
The Ultra 2 features a robust titanium case that provides exceptional strength while keeping the weight manageable. This aerospace-grade material resists scratches better than aluminum models and gives the watch a premium feel.
Water resistance reaches an impressive 100 meters, making it suitable for scuba diving and other water activities. The Ultra 2 meets EN13319 certification standards for dive computers and equipment.
Apple has improved the eco-friendliness of the Ultra 2. It uses recycled materials in several components and has a carbon neutral option when paired with specific bands.
The watch can handle extreme temperatures ranging from -4°F to 131°F (-20°C to 55°C), making it perfect for adventures in varied climates.
Display Features
The Ultra 2 boasts an exceptionally bright display that can reach up to 3,000 nits. This brightness means the screen remains visible even in direct sunlight – a crucial feature for outdoor use.
The always-on Retina display measures 49mm, providing more screen real estate than standard Apple Watch models. This larger size improves readability of maps, workout metrics, and notifications.
An ambient light sensor automatically adjusts brightness based on conditions, saving battery and improving visibility. The display glass uses sapphire crystal for superior scratch resistance.
The night mode with red text reduces eye strain in low-light conditions, a thoughtful feature for camping or night activities.
Physical Buttons and Customization
The Ultra 2 features three physical controls that are easy to use even with gloves. The Digital Crown has a larger, more textured design for better grip during activities.
The distinctive Action Button (in bright orange) can be customized to launch specific workouts, the built-in dive computer, or other functions. This quick-access feature proves invaluable during activities.
The side button sits slightly raised from the case for easier access. Next to it is the emergency siren that can be activated to emit an 86-decibel alert sound audible up to 600 feet away.
Many users praise the timeless design that balances ruggedness with elegance. The button layout feels intuitive even during first use.
Technical Specifications
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 comes packed with impressive hardware that sets it apart from other smartwatches. Its rugged design houses cutting-edge technology that powers its advanced features and extended capabilities.
Chip and Performance
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 features the powerful S9 SiP (System in Package) chip, which delivers faster performance than previous models. This new processor enables quicker app launches and smoother overall operation. It also powers the watch’s on-device Siri functionality, allowing for faster voice commands even without an internet connection.
The Ultra 2 includes 64GB of storage space for apps, music, and photos. This is plenty of room for most users to store workout playlists and frequently used apps.
The display is a standout feature, measuring 49mm with 1.9 inches of screen space. The OLED display reaches an impressive 3,000 nits of brightness, making it easy to read even in direct sunlight during outdoor activities.
The watch runs on watchOS, which provides access to thousands of apps and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.
Battery Performance
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 shines in battery life, offering up to 36 hours of normal use on a single charge. This is double the battery life of standard Apple Watch models, which typically last about 18 hours.
When using the power-saving mode, battery life can extend to an impressive 72 hours. This makes it suitable for multi-day adventures without needing to recharge.
The watch includes a fast-charging feature that can take the battery from 0% to 80% in just 45 minutes. A full charge takes approximately 60-75 minutes.
Battery performance is particularly strong during GPS tracking activities. The watch can track a marathon or long hike without running out of power, making it ideal for endurance athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.
Health and Fitness Sensors
The Ultra 2 comes equipped with an advanced optical heart rate sensor that provides continuous monitoring and alerts for irregular rhythms. Its accuracy rivals chest straps in most exercise conditions.
The watch includes a blood oxygen (SpO2) sensor to measure oxygen saturation levels. This is particularly useful for high-altitude activities and sleep tracking.
Additional sensors include:
- Temperature sensor for cycle tracking and sleep insights
- Accelerometer and gyroscope for fall detection and workout tracking
- Depth gauge for water activities
- Compass with backtrack functionality
The Ultra 2 offers specialized workout metrics for diving, running, swimming, cycling, and hiking. It automatically detects workouts and provides detailed analysis of performance data.
Connectivity and GPS Features
The Ultra 2 excels in location tracking with its dual-frequency GPS system. This technology uses both L1 and L5 GPS bands to provide extremely accurate location data, even in challenging environments like dense forests or urban canyons.
Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi for fast data transfer and streaming. The cellular model supports 4G LTE, allowing for calls, texts, and data usage without a connected iPhone.
The watch features three built-in microphones with advanced noise-reduction technology for clear calls even in windy conditions. Its powerful speakers are 40% louder than regular Apple Watch models, including an emergency siren that can be heard up to 600 feet away.
The Ultra 2 includes an emergency SOS feature that can contact emergency services and share your location with them. It also offers crash detection to automatically call for help if you’re in a severe car accident.
Operating System and Software
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 runs on Apple’s latest watchOS version with significant improvements in both interface and functionality. The device offers enhanced health tracking capabilities and robust built-in software that takes full advantage of the Ultra 2’s powerful hardware.
WatchOS Version
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 comes with watchOS 11, the newest version of Apple’s smartwatch operating system. This update brings several exclusive features to the Ultra 2 that aren’t available on the original Ultra model.
WatchOS 11 introduces fresh watch faces like Flux and Reflections that take advantage of the Ultra 2’s brighter display. The interface runs smoothly thanks to the improved processing power of the new S9 chip.
Smart Stack is one of the most useful additions, providing quick access to relevant information based on time, location, and user habits. It shows important widgets with a simple twist of the Digital Crown.
Siri has become more responsive and capable on the Ultra 2, with faster on-device processing for common requests and better understanding of health-related questions.
Health and Activity Apps
The Ultra 2 excels in health monitoring with several upgraded features. Perhaps most notably, sleep apnea detection is now available on the Ultra 2 through watchOS 11, a feature not found on the original Ultra.
Sleep tracking has been refined to provide more detailed information about sleep stages and breathing patterns. The watch monitors blood oxygen levels during sleep and can alert users to potential breathing issues.
The Workout app offers specialized metrics for different activities:
- Running: Shows stride length, ground contact time, and vertical oscillation
- Swimming: Tracks stroke efficiency and SWOLF scores
- Cycling: Measures power output and cadence
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Compass app includes backtrack functionality to help navigate back to starting points, while the Depth app automatically activates when submerged in water.
Built-In Software Capabilities
The Ultra 2 shines with purpose-built apps that leverage its premium hardware. The Oceanic+ app transforms the watch into a capable dive computer, displaying depth, water temperature, and dive time with exceptional clarity on the bright display.
The Depth app activates automatically when the Ultra 2 detects submersion, providing real-time data on current depth and water temperature. It works reliably to depths of 40 meters, making it useful for recreational diving and snorkeling.
AssistiveTouch improves accessibility by allowing users to control the watch through hand gestures. Simple pinches and clenches can navigate the interface without touching the screen.
The Ultra 2’s built-in apps take advantage of its improved brightness (now 50% brighter than the original Ultra). This makes outdoor readability exceptional, even in direct sunlight.
The watch also features dual-frequency GPS for more accurate location tracking in challenging environments like dense urban areas or thick forests.
Special Features and Innovations
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 brings several unique features that set it apart from standard smartwatches. Its rugged design combines with specialized functions to create a powerful tool for adventurers, athletes, and everyday users who demand more from their wearable technology.
Action Button and Its Uses
The customizable Action Button is one of the Ultra 2’s standout features. This bright orange button lets users quickly access their most-used functions with a single press. You can set it to start workouts, turn on the flashlight, or access other frequently used features.
The button works with different apps and can be programmed for specific activities. For hikers, it might launch compass functions, while divers might set it to activate depth readings.
The new Double Tap gesture adds another layer of control. This hands-free feature lets you:
- Answer calls
- Start or stop timers
- Control music
- Dismiss notifications
Simply tap your thumb and index finger together twice to activate it—perfect when your hands are busy or dirty.
Emergency Features
The Ultra 2 includes powerful safety tools for outdoor adventures. Its emergency siren can be heard up to 600 feet away, helping rescuers locate you in emergencies.
The watch includes enhanced GPS capabilities with better accuracy in challenging environments like dense forests or urban canyons. This precision is crucial for search and rescue operations.
Cellular connectivity allows you to make emergency calls even without your phone nearby. The watch also features:
- Fall detection
- Crash detection
- Emergency SOS calling
- Compass backtracking to help you find your way back
These features make the Ultra 2 more than just a fitness tracker—it’s a potential lifesaver for hikers, climbers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who venture into remote areas.
Night Mode and Visibility
The brighter display on the Ultra 2 reaches an impressive 3,000 nits, making it easily readable even in direct sunlight. This is a major upgrade for outdoor use where visibility is often challenging.
Night Mode transforms the display to a red color scheme that preserves night vision—essential for stargazers, campers, and early morning runners. This mode activates automatically when using the flashlight at night.
The larger screen size (49mm) provides more room for data displays during workouts. Key metrics are easier to read at a glance, even when moving quickly.
The Ultra 2’s always-on display has been optimized for better battery efficiency. This means you can keep important information visible without constantly raising your wrist or tapping the screen.
Wearability and Accessories
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 combines durability with comfort for extended wear in various conditions. Its specialized bands and navigation features make it highly adaptable for different activities and environments.
Strap Options and Comfort
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers several band options designed for specific activities. The Ocean Band stands out for water activities with its flexible fluoroelastomer material that fits comfortably over wetsuits while remaining secure during dives.
The Trail Band provides a lightweight option for runners and hikers. Its velcro-like closure allows quick adjustments during activities, preventing the watch from sliding around.
Many users find the Ultra 2 comfortable despite its 49mm case size, which is larger than standard Apple Watches. The titanium case keeps the weight manageable for all-day wear.
Some users with smaller wrists report the watch feels bulky at first, but most adjust to the size after a few days of wear. The flat display design helps prevent accidental bumps and scratches.
Navigational Accessories
The Ultra 2 includes built-in navigational tools that enhance outdoor experiences. The compass app works with the physical Action Button for quick access during hikes or runs.
The watch’s precision dual-frequency GPS works without a phone connection. This feature proves valuable for tracking routes in remote areas where cellular signals are weak.
Users can load topographic maps directly to the watch. This function helps hikers stay on trail even when exploring new territory.
The bright display (up to 3,000 nits) ensures good visibility in direct sunlight. This brightness level makes checking maps and directions easy even in harsh lighting conditions.
Night mode with red display helps preserve night vision during evening activities. Many outdoor enthusiasts appreciate this feature for stargazing or camping trips.
Comparison with Previous Models
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 marks significant advancements over earlier Apple Watch models, with notable changes in design, battery life, and functionality that set it apart from both its predecessor and other Apple Watch offerings.
Apple Watch Ultra vs Series 10
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 10 differ mainly in their design philosophy and target audience. The Ultra 2 features a more rugged build with a titanium case designed for extreme conditions, while the Series 10 maintains a sleeker profile more suitable for everyday use.
Battery life remains a key advantage for the Ultra 2. It offers up to 36 hours of normal use and up to 72 hours in low-power mode, making it ideal for extended outdoor activities.
The Ultra 2 includes an additional Action Button not found on the Series 10. This customizable button provides quick access to workout tracking, compass waypoints, and other features helpful during outdoor adventures.
Display brightness is another area where the Ultra 2 shines with a maximum brightness of 3000 nits compared to the Series 10’s 2000 nits, making it more readable in direct sunlight.
The Ultra 2 also includes dual-frequency GPS for more accurate location tracking in challenging environments where standard GPS might struggle.
Improvements from Series 7 and Series 9
The Ultra 2 represents a significant leap forward from the Series 7 and 9 models. The most obvious improvement is processor power – the Ultra 2’s S9 chip delivers faster performance and enables new features like on-device Siri processing.
Screen size has increased dramatically since the Series 7. The Ultra 2 features a 49mm display with slimmer bezels, providing more screen real estate for apps and information at a glance.
Battery technology has seen major improvements. While Series 7 offered around 18 hours of battery life, the Ultra 2 more than doubles this with its larger battery capacity.
New health features have been added, including improved heart rate monitoring and more accurate workout metrics. The Ultra 2 also includes a body temperature sensor not available in Series 7.
Water resistance has improved significantly, with the Ultra 2 rated for depths up to 100 meters compared to 50 meters on earlier models, making it much more suitable for diving activities.
Usage Scenarios and Target Audience
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 serves diverse users with its robust features and enhanced capabilities. It excels in both extreme outdoor conditions and daily use scenarios, offering specialized tools for athletes while remaining accessible for casual users.
Sport and Adventure
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 shines brightest for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. Its rugged design handles tough conditions while delivering precise metrics for serious training.
Runners benefit from the Precision Start feature, which instantly begins workout tracking with a simple button press. This eliminates the countdown delay found on standard models, letting athletes start recording immediately.
Swimmers and divers will appreciate the impressive Depth Gauge that functions to 40 meters underwater. It automatically activates when submerged, displaying current depth, water temperature, and duration.
For hikers and explorers, the Ultra 2 provides enhanced GPS Tracking that works even in remote areas. The Emergency Siren is a standout safety feature, audible up to 600 feet away when help is needed.
The watch tracks over 40 different activities with detailed metrics for each. Mountain climbers, cyclists, and triathletes get specialized data points that standard fitness trackers often miss.
Everyday Users and Accessibility
Despite its adventure focus, the Ultra 2 works well for daily wear. The 50% brighter display improves readability in bright sunlight, benefiting all users regardless of activity level.
Battery life sets it apart from standard Apple Watches. Users report 1.5-2.5 days between charges, making it ideal for sleep tracking without nightly charging.
The larger screen helps those with vision limitations, displaying more information at once. The physical Action Button can be customized to launch favorite apps or features with one press.
Office workers benefit from its professional appearance while maintaining access to fitness tools. The Ultra 2 transitions smoothly from workday to weekend adventures without looking out of place.
Many weekend warriors find it bridges the gap between dedicated sports watches and everyday smartwatches. It handles both roles effectively, though hardcore athletes might still prefer specialized devices.
Pricing and Availability
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 maintains the same price point as its predecessor at $799. This places it at a significant premium compared to the Apple Watch Series 10, which starts at $399.
For those weighing options between models, the price difference might seem steep at first glance. However, when comparing specific configurations, the gap narrows considerably.
If you’re planning to get the cellular version of a regular Apple Watch in the larger size, the price difference shrinks to about $150. The comparison becomes even closer when looking at the stainless steel Apple Watch models, where the gap drops to roughly $50.
The Ultra 2 comes in a sleek black titanium case and is widely available through:
- Apple Stores
- Apple’s website
- Authorized retailers
- Major electronics stores
Unlike some limited edition products, stock of the Ultra 2 has been consistently available since its launch. Apple occasionally offers trade-in deals that can reduce the effective price for customers upgrading from older models.
The Ultra 2 ships with a standard band, but additional bands can be purchased separately to customize the look. These extra bands range from $49 to $99 depending on the style and material.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 brings several improvements in features, battery life, and performance over the original Ultra model. Many users have specific questions about what makes this newer model stand out.
What are the new features introduced in the latest Apple Watch Ultra?
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 comes with the new S9 chip that powers several unique features. The most notable addition is the double-tap gesture which lets users control functions by tapping their thumb and index finger together.
The Ultra 2 also features a brighter display that can reach up to 3,000 nits, making it easier to read in direct sunlight. This is particularly helpful for outdoor activities.
For cyclists, the Ultra 2 includes new cycling features that improve tracking and metrics during rides.
How does the battery life of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 compare to its predecessor?
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 maintains the impressive battery specs of the original Ultra. It offers up to 36 hours of normal use and up to 72 hours in low power mode.
This battery life is twice as long as standard Apple Watch models, which typically offer around 18 hours. The extended battery makes it much more suitable for multi-day adventures.
Real-world tests show that the Ultra 2 can easily last through a full day of heavy use including workouts, GPS tracking, and regular notifications.
What are the improvements in performance and durability in this iteration of Apple Watch Ultra?
The Ultra 2 is powered by Apple’s S9 chip, which provides smoother performance for apps and system functions. While some reviewers note they can’t tell a huge difference in day-to-day tasks, the overall responsiveness has improved.
For durability, the Ultra 2 continues to be an absolute beast. The titanium case, sapphire crystal, and rugged design allow it to handle extreme conditions and elements.
The water resistance remains at 100 meters, making it suitable for recreational diving and water sports.
Is the Apple Watch Ultra 2 considered a good value for its price point?
At $799, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 sits at the premium end of smartwatches. For active users who need extended battery life and rugged durability, many reviewers consider it worth the investment.
Those upgrading from the original Ultra might find less value in the update unless specific new features like double-tap or the brighter display are important to them.
Compared to specialized devices for specific sports, the Ultra 2 offers versatility that can replace multiple devices, potentially offering better overall value.
How do professional reviewers rate the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in terms of user experience?
Professional reviewers generally praise the Ultra 2’s user experience while noting some limitations. WIRED notes that while the Ultra 2 has helpful enhancements, it can be a bit quirky to use.
Reviewers consistently mention the bright, clear display as a highlight of the user experience. The action button continues to be popular for quick access to frequent functions.
Some reviewers point out that the watch remains too dependent on the iPhone for certain features, which may limit its appeal to some users.
What enhancements in health and fitness tracking does the Apple Watch Ultra 2 offer?
The Ultra 2 includes all standard Apple Watch health features plus specialized metrics for endurance athletes. The updated sensors provide more accurate heart rate monitoring and blood oxygen readings.
Advanced running metrics include stride length, ground contact time, and vertical oscillation to help serious runners improve their form. These metrics are presented in an easy-to-understand format.
For hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, the Ultra 2 offers improved GPS accuracy with dual-frequency GPS. This helps track location more precisely in challenging environments like dense forests or urban canyons.
