Apple released their latest watches yesterday, with a new "pro" Apple Watch, called the Apple Watch Ultra, also announced. This is a version of the Apple Watch that is more rugged and built for extreme conditions. The watch is jam-packed with new sensors and features that cater to serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, from pro-running metrics to support for scuba-diving.
The list of new features and sensors for the Apple Watch Ultra are:
- Temperature Sensor
- Car crash detection using 2 new high g-force accelerometers and a new gyroscope
- Multi-band GPS using additional L5 frequency
- New depth gauge sensor, an underwater-based diving app called Oceanic+, and improved water resistance. WR100 and EN13319 (diving standards) are also certified for the Apple Watch Ultra.
- Afib/ECG history
- Sleep stages app
- Multisport workouts
- Improved cycle tracking
- Detailed running metrics
- New titanium case with sapphire glass display
- Increased water resistance to WR100 (100m) for dive usage
Apple's new temperature sensor, geared towards women's health, tracks changes up to 0.1 degrees Celsius. This is achieved by the use of two new temperature sensors, one under the display and the other in contact with the user's wrist. By comparing heart rate and temperature trends throughout an individual's menstrual cycle, Apple says they can estimate your menstrual and ovulation cycle, notifying you of potential changes based on these metrics.
The multi-band GPS is achieved using dual-frequency modes using the original L1 frequency for GPS and the new L5 frequency standard. This allows Apple to track your pace and running routes more precisely than ever before. The multi-band GPS and new positioning algorithms are used to automatically detect when you show up to compete at track events. Apple also showcased a backtrack feature that allows you to retrace your steps, in case you get lost on your next hike. New running metrics are also now calculated such as Stride Length, Ground Contact Time, Running Power, and more. Heart rate zone training is also incorporated in WatchOS 9.
Apple increased the battery life on the Apple Watch Ultra, now lasting 36 hours on one charge. Apple claims you can perform a full triathlon on a single charge. While that doesn't compete with other wearables such as Garmin's 16 day battery life, it's a welcome improvement. Apple states that a low power mode could also extend battery life for the Apple Watch Ultra to 60 hours. The microphone quality was also improved along with implementing wind-noise reduction for calls. These additions further showcase how Apple is catering to serious outdoor enthusiasts and athletes with their latest "pro" wearable.
