Apple Watch Ultra 4: Worth the Wait or Just Another Incremental Upgrade?

I’ve been following Apple Watch Ultra since its first version, and honestly, the hardware has always impressed me more than the yearly upgrades. The battery life, rugged build, and outdoor focus are solid, but after seeing three generations with almost the same look, it does start to feel repetitive. That’s why Apple Watch Ultra 4 leaks caught my attention—not because of flashy features, but because Apple finally seems ready to change something meaningful.

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Apple Watch Ultra 4 Expected Release Date

If Apple sticks to its usual pattern, Apple Watch Ultra 4 is expected to launch in September 2026, alongside the iPhone 18 lineup. Apple has been extremely consistent with September announcements, especially for flagship products.

There’s also an internal Apple codename floating around—N240—which industry watchers believe points to a 2026-generation Apple Watch. Still, this is more than a year away, so timelines could shift if development or supply chain issues pop up.

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Apple Watch Ultra 4 Price Expectations

Here’s the surprising part: don’t expect a price hike.

• Apple Watch Ultra 3 launched at $799
• No reliable leaks suggest Apple Watch Ultra 4 will cost more

Considering Apple added satellite SOS and 5G connectivity in Ultra 3 without increasing the price, Apple seems serious about keeping the Ultra competitive against Garmin and other hardcore outdoor watches.

Expected price: $799 (US)

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Design Changes: Finally Something New

This is where Apple Watch Ultra 4 gets interesting.

What’s Likely Changing

• Slightly thinner body (one of the biggest complaints about current Ultra models)
• Marginally larger display
• Redesigned sensor layout on the back

What’s Staying

• Titanium case
• Flat display (great for sunlight visibility)
• Action Button and Digital Crown
• Same rugged, adventure-first vibe

Apple isn’t reinventing the Ultra’s identity—just refining it.

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New Sensor Layout: Big Hint, No Clarity

Leaks suggest up to eight sensor elements on the back of Apple Watch Ultra 4. That’s a noticeable jump from current models.

What do they do?

• No confirmed details
• Likely future-focused health or biometric features
• Possibly groundwork for features Apple isn’t ready to launch yet

This feels more like long-term planning than an immediate benefit.

AirTags 1 vs AirTags 2

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Touch ID on Apple Watch Ultra 4?

One interesting rumor suggests Touch ID may be integrated into the Action Button, not under the display.

If true, it actually makes sense:

• Easier authentication during workouts or outdoor use
• No need to look at the screen
• Gloves-friendly possibility

Still, this is far from confirmed, so expectations should stay realistic.

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Display Expectations: Don’t Expect a Big Leap

No major display leaks usually mean no major display upgrades.

Most likely:

• Similar panel to Ultra 3
• Slight size increase
• Minor brightness improvements

Apple tends to prioritize battery life over flashy screens, especially for outdoor-focused devices.

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Battery Life: Already Good, Slightly Better

Apple Watch Ultra 3 already delivers:

• ~42 hours normal use
• Up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode

Ultra 4 probably won’t increase battery size, but a newer chip could improve efficiency slightly. Even small gains would be welcome, though nothing revolutionary is expected.

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watchOS 27 & Features

Apple Watch Ultra 4 will ship with watchOS 27.

Expected features:

• Advanced workout tracking
• Satellite SOS
• Dive and navigation tools
• ECG, blood oxygen, wrist temperature
• Sleep tracking
• Hypertension notifications (likely refined)

No leaks suggest any Ultra 4–exclusive killer feature so far.

Apple Watch Ultra 4
byu/_86dc inapplewatchultra

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Blood Glucose Monitoring: Not Happening Yet

This needs to be said clearly.

Despite years of rumors:

• Apple has prototypes
• Accuracy still isn’t good enough
• Apple Watch Ultra 4 will NOT have blood glucose monitoring

This remains a long-term project, probably years away from consumer launch.

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Expected Apple Watch Ultra 4 Specs (Based on Trends)

Feature	Expected
Processor	New S-series chip
Connectivity	5G, Satellite SOS
Storage	64GB
Material	Titanium
Sizes	One Ultra size
Sensors	Expanded array (up to 8)

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Should You Wait for Apple Watch Ultra 4?

You should wait if:

• You want a thinner Ultra
• Comfort matters more than immediate upgrades
• You’re not in a rush

You shouldn’t wait if:

• You need a rugged smartwatch right now
• Ultra 3 already meets your needs
• You don’t care much about minor design refinements

Based on current leaks, Apple Watch Ultra 4 doesn’t look like a major leap—more like a careful polish.

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Final Verdict

Apple Watch Ultra 4 sounds promising, but not game-changing. A slimmer design and expanded sensors are nice, but if you’re expecting a dramatic upgrade, the leaks don’t support that—at least not yet.

If you already own an Ultra 2 or Ultra 3, waiting makes sense.
If you don’t own one at all, Ultra 3 is still a very safe buy.

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What’s Your Take?

Are you waiting for Apple Watch Ultra 4, or grabbing the Ultra 3 while prices are stable?
Drop your honest thoughts—no fanboy logic, just real opinions.

(AutoAkhbar.com)

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