The subtle strength of Apple’s new watches: Series 9 & Ultra 2

The annual Apple Launch event, a calendar highlight for tech connoisseurs, has once again seized the global spotlight. As the event unfolded at the Steve Jobs Theater, the atmosphere was charged with expectation. While iPhones usually steal the show, this year, it’s the new Apple watches that are drawing keen interest. These timepieces are more than mere accessories; they’re a critical component of Apple’s broader ecosystem and strategy.

For seasoned experts in the field, the launch serves as a critical moment to evaluate Apple’s ongoing influence in the wearable tech sector. The new Apple watches are not just incremental updates; they are a statement of intent and a gauge of the company’s innovative capabilities. As you delve into the intricacies of these devices, you’re not just reviewing a product; you’re assessing the future trajectory of wearable technology.

View on Amazon (Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Ultra 2)

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What’s new?
The pricing strategy, availability
Technical specs comparison

Apple Watch Series 9 & Watch Ultra 2: What’s new?

Under the hood: the S9 SIP

The Series 9 features a new S9 SIP (System in Package), boasting a staggering 5.6 billion transistors, a 60% increase over the Series 8. This new chip doesn’t just offer a performance boost; it opens the door for new capabilities. The 4-core neural engine allows for on-device processing of Siri requests and health data, making the device less dependent on Wi-Fi or cellular connection. It adds the ability to process data out of the cloud.

This is a subtle yet significant shift towards making the Apple Watch a more standalone device. It could be a precursor to more advanced capabilities.

Name drop and ultra-wide chip: redefining connectivity

The Name Drop feature is more than a convenient way to share contact information. It’s a step towards creating a more interconnected Apple ecosystem. Imagine walking into a business meeting and instantly sharing your digital business card with all attendees wearing an Apple Watch. The second-generation ultra-wide chip not only helps you find your iPhone (shows both the distance and direction), but could potentially be used for more advanced location-based services in the future.

The display: more than meets the eye

The edge-to-edge Retina display on the Series 9 is not just about visual appeal; it’s about functionality. The brightness level, adjustable up to 2000 nits, makes the watch more versatile in different lighting conditions. This could be particularly useful for outdoor activities where glare can be an issue. The ability to go down to 1 nit also suggests potential applications in low-light scenarios, such as astronomy or night-time outdoor adventures. And it could have implications for sleep tracking.

The fine line of gesture control

Gesture control in Series 9 is not merely a gimmick; it’s a fundamental shift in how we interact with wearable devices. This gesture takes over the main button control for every app and feature on the device. By tapping their thumb and forefinger together, users can perform a variety of tasks, from taking or canceling calls to pausing workouts. This feature utilizes machine learning to analyze heart rate, blood flow, and gyroscope data to detect the gesture accurately.

The simplicity of the double-tap gesture could mark a turning point in bringing gesture control to mainstream wearables. It’s a feature that could be particularly useful for people with disabilities or those who need to operate their device when their hands are otherwise occupied.

Sustainability: more than a buzzword

Apple’s commitment to becoming carbon neutral by 2030 is not merely a lofty goal; it’s an integral part of the company’s business strategy. The Series 9 watch serves as a milestone in this journey, being Apple’s first carbon-neutral product. The manufacturing process for this device is powered entirely by clean electricity, underscoring Apple’s dedication to environmental responsibility.

The Series 9 watch sets a new benchmark for the use of recycled materials in Apple products. It contains a higher percentage of recycled content than any previous generation, aligning with the company’s broader initiative to maximize the use of sustainable materials. This is a crucial step towards achieving Apple’s carbon-neutral target, as it reduces the carbon footprint associated with raw material extraction and processing.

In a significant shift, Apple has decided to eliminate leather from its entire product range. This decision is replaced by the introduction of FineWoven, a new textile composed of 60% recycled content. The material not only aligns with Apple’s sustainability goals but also offers a high-quality alternative to traditional leather.

Apple’s sustainability efforts extend beyond its own products. The company has collaborated with luxury brand Hermes to introduce four new watch bands, all adhering to Apple’s new sustainability standards. Similarly, a partnership with Nike has resulted in new bands made from recycled materials.

The Ultra 2: not just a luxury item

The Ultra 2, with its 3000-nits display and Bluetooth accessory connectivity, positions itself as a premium device for specific use-cases. The brightness level makes it ideal for outdoor sports enthusiasts, while the Bluetooth external device connectivity could be a boon for cyclists or runners who use specialized equipment. However, the unchanged 36 hour battery life could be a limiting factor for those who require extended usage.

Finally worth a mention is that both the Ultra 2 and Series 9 watches are able to detect the presence of a HomePod. This feature allows the watch to present music suggestions or control what’s currently playing, adding another layer of integration within the Apple ecosystem.

The pricing strategy, availability

The pricing of the Series 9 and Ultra 2 is strategic. By offering the Series 9 at a starting price of $399 (GPS) and $499 (GPS + Cellular), Apple aims to attract a broader consumer base. The Ultra 2, priced at $799, targets the premium market. This dual-pricing strategy allows Apple to cater to different segments, from the budget-conscious to the high-end consumer. Pre-orders start now, with shipping set to begin on September 22nd.

And while we are at it, let’s not forget changes that are being introduced by watchOS 10. The next generation of the operating system will be available for public consumption starting Monday, September 18. This is an important detail for users who own older Apple Watch models and are considering an upgrade.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

While the updates to the Series 9 and Ultra 2 may seem incremental, they are part of a larger, more calculated strategy. Apple is not just updating a product; it’s refining an ecosystem and setting the stage for future innovations.

Techs specs comparison

Here’s a tech specs comparison table for the Apple Watch Ultra 2, Series 9, and SE. More details can be found on this page.

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