The Apple Watch Ultra 2, priced at $799, closely resembles its predecessor, the first-generation Ultra, when worn on someone’s wrist. It shares the same 49mm size and titanium casing. However, the Ultra 2 stands out with its screen, which boasts a brightness of 3,000 nits, the brightest among all Apple Watches. Unveiled alongside the Apple Watch Series 9, the Ultra 2 targets outdoor enthusiasts and will be available starting September 22.
When I had the opportunity to try out the Ultra 2 at Apple Park, I was particularly impressed by its screen and innovative features like Double Tap, which allows for easy navigation using hand gestures. The Ultra 2 includes additional gaming features, but they do not provide an upgrade from the first-generation Ultra.
The original Apple Watch Ultra, also priced at $799, was Apple’s answer to travel watches from competitors like Garmin. It was designed for sports enthusiasts, with special features for divers and hikers, among others. However, the Ultra also appealed to users looking for a larger screen and longer battery life, which is still the case with the Ultra 2.
Bright Display and New Modular Ultra Watch Face
The Ultra 2 boasts a maximum screen brightness of 3,000 nits, a significant improvement compared to the original Ultra’s 2,000-nit display. This enhancement ensures better visibility in bright outdoor settings, such as snowy or sunny conditions. To demonstrate the difference, I used the Control Center to check the brightness and turn on the flashlight on both versions of the Ultra.
Check this out: The Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers the highest quality display and supports the S9.
Double Tap and Siri Update
One notable feature shared with the Series 9 is Double Tap, a nifty system that allows users to control the watch. For instance, you can answer calls by simply touching your thumb and forefinger together. This functionality relies on the accelerometer, gyroscope, and heart rate sensor. Double Tap builds upon Apple’s AssistiveTouch feature, which enables accessibility through gestures, although they have distinct purposes.
Double Tap’s behavior varies depending on the situation. For example, I could raise my wrist to view the time, double-tap to access the smart stack or widgets in WatchOS 10, and double-tap again to scroll through different categories. Opening the timer app allowed me to start or stop the timer with a double click. You can even answer calls using this gesture.
This feature is also supported by the new S9 device, similar to the Series 9. Additionally, it powers Siri, providing precise control. You can ask Siri for updates on your health habits, such as sleep duration.
Enhanced Cycling Features and Extended Range
With the new WatchOS 10 software, the Ultra 2 offers enhanced features for cyclists, including connectivity to Bluetooth devices like pedal power meters. You can also view your cycling progress on the iPhone screen through Live Activities. As a cyclist myself, I found this feature very useful during my testing with the original Ultra in the public beta of WatchOS 10.
The Ultra 2 also boasts an extended range, with a water resistance of up to 500 meters and a height resistance of up to 9,000 meters. Updates to the Depth app now allow logging of your sessions for review on the watch or iPhone, and the Oceanic Plus app from Huish Outdoors provides improved user-friendliness.
Apple has also made eco-friendly improvements to the casing by using 95% recycled titanium for the Ultra 2, compared to the all-virgin titanium of the first-generation Ultra. Despite these enhancements, the battery life remains the same as the original Ultra, rated for 36 hours with constant use and up to 72 hours in low power mode.
Apple now offers three watches in its lineup:
- The second-generation Apple Watch SE, priced at $249 (£219, AU$399), released in 2022
- The Apple Watch Series 9, priced at $399 (£399, AU$649)
- The second-generation Apple Watch Ultra, priced at $799 (£799, AU$1,399)
