The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is set to launch later this year, bringing with it features like satellite connectivity, 5G cellular capabilities, and the ability to detect high blood pressure. However, the allure that may sway my decision isn’t about new hardware, but rather something that isn’t new at all.
Exclusive watch faces are a major attraction
Last year, Apple introduced the Apple Watch Series 10, which features a display that matches the size of the Ultra but is priced nearly half as much.
I purchased the Series 10 and have enjoyed wearing it daily since then.
Nonetheless, it has one significant drawback: a limited selection of watch faces that utilize its spacious display effectively.
The Apple Watch Ultra comes with two unique watch faces:
The first face particularly intrigues me.
The Modular Ultra face allows you to configure up to seven complications, six customizable time display options, and includes an area around the edges for additional data.
This is the face I wish I could have on my Series 10, but it’s simply unavailable.
It might just be the factor that prompts my switch to the Apple Watch Ultra 3 this year.
Before making that leap, however, I want to outline my initial thought process that led to my Series 10 decision.
Apple Watch Series 10 generated excitement
When Apple revealed its latest Watch lineup in September, the absence of the rumored Apple Watch Ultra 3 was notable.
Rather than introducing a new Ultra variant, Apple opted to release a black color option for the existing Ultra 2.
While the black Ultra 2 is certainly stunning, I was looking for a new Watch, and investing in an older model didn’t fit my plans.
If the Apple Watch Series 10 had been a minor revision, I might have been lured towards the Ultra 2. Instead, the Series 10 offered:
- a sleeker design
- expanded screen sizes
- the S10 chip
- enhanced charging capabilities
- more frequent always-on refresh rates
- and a wide-angle OLED display
What did the Apple Watch Ultra gain?
Just a new color.
It’s clear why I chose the Series 10 so quickly.
Considering a switch to Apple Watch Ultra 3 for one coveted feature
Although I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my Apple Watch Series 10, the absence of optimized watch faces for the expansive screen continues to frustrate me.
It’s prompting serious thoughts about switching to the Ultra 3 this upcoming year.
Specifications for the Ultra 3 seem compelling. More details are likely to emerge as we approach September, with expectations for a new chip and potentially improved battery life.
However, the main allure for me will inevitably be the Modular Ultra face.
Watch faces constitute the essence of watchOS. The importance of your watch face surpasses that of your iPhone’s Home Screen.
In general, most interactions on the Watch revolve around the watch face.
Checking the time, viewing widgets, launching applications—these actions typically begin at the watch face.
For this reason, having the finest possible face capable of utilizing a large display is crucial—particularly for someone like me.
I’m eager to hear if Apple plans to introduce new watch faces with watchOS 12 that enhance the capabilities of the Series 10 model. If such updates are made, I may decide to stay with my current Watch.
But if nothing materializes, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and its exclusive watch faces will certainly beckon me come September.
What factors guide your decisions when purchasing an Apple Watch? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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