The Apple Watch Ultra 4 arrives as Apple's biggest and beefiest smartwatch, now in its fourth year, with a spec upgrade that many users will appreciate: longer battery life. However, several key features announced for the 2026 lineup are not yet enabled, awaiting software updates later this year. That leaves the Ultra 4 as the top dog, but essentially the same as last year's model in terms of design and core functionality.
Design and Display: Familiar Territory
The Ultra 4's body, screen, colors, and design are identical to previous versions. It weighs about 1g more, but the bigger changes are on the back and inside. The upgraded sensors on the back take heart rate readings every five seconds during the day, up from every five minutes on previous generation Apple Watches. They also enable the measurement of heart rate variability (HRV) during the day, not only at night, which feeds into new recovery metrics.
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Performance and Battery Life
The Ultra 4 is the first Apple Watch in several generations to get a meaningfully faster chip with the new S11. In testing, the battery life for general use stretched to 79 hours, meaning the watch lasted well into its third day between charges. Most users will be able to charge it every third morning, or less if using low power modes. However, that is far behind the week-plus stamina of top adventure watches.
New Features and Missing Updates
Several features announced as part of Apple's new smartwatch lineup for 2026 have yet to be enabled. These include advanced health monitoring capabilities and new workout metrics that will arrive via software updates towards the end of the year. This means early adopters won't immediately benefit from all the promised functionality.
Key Takeaways
- Battery life now stretches to 79 hours in general use, lasting well into the third day.
- New S11 chip offers meaningfully faster performance.
- Upgraded heart sensors take readings every five seconds and enable daytime HRV measurement.
- Design and display remain identical to previous generations.
- Several announced features await software updates later in 2026.
Comparison with Previous Models
| Feature | Apple Watch Ultra 4 | Apple Watch Ultra 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery life (general use) | Up to 79 hours | Up to 36 hours |
| Chip | S11 | S9 |
| Heart rate sensor | Every 5 seconds | Every 5 minutes |
| Daytime HRV | Yes | No |
| Design | Identical to previous | Identical to previous |
Who Should Buy It?
The Ultra 4 is best suited for users who need the longest battery life and fastest performance in an Apple Watch. If you already own an Ultra 3, the upgrade may not be compelling until the new features are enabled. For athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, the improved heart rate tracking and recovery metrics could be valuable, but the lack of immediate new features might be a deterrent. The background to this story is set out in Moto Watch Ultra Review: A Smartwatch for Gym and Weddings. A related thread runs through Huawei presents Watch GT 6 and Ultimate 2: With durability, accuracy and 21-day battery life.
What to Watch Next
Apple is expected to roll out the missing features via software updates later this year. These updates could significantly enhance the watch's capabilities, making it more competitive with dedicated adventure watches. Potential buyers should keep an eye on announcements regarding these updates. Earlier coverage in ASUS Zenbook 14: Premium Power and Battery Life at a Budget Price shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in Huawei Watch 6 Pro Review: A Premium Smartwatch With a Rival at Home.
For those interested in Apple's other recent product updates, the new AirTag from Apple with longer range and louder speaker offers improved tracking capabilities. If you're looking for more tech reviews and news, explore our AirTag coverage for insights on how Apple is enhancing its ecosystem. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Emma Finucane Wins Historic Fourth Commonwealth Gold in Keirin. The same theme surfaces in The Secret to Double Your iPhone Battery Life, which takes a different angle.
FAQ
How long does the Apple Watch Ultra 4 battery last?
In testing, the battery lasted 79 hours in general use, lasting well into the third day between charges. Using low power modes can extend it further, but it still lags behind some adventure watches that last a week or more.
What new features are missing from the Ultra 4 at launch?
Several features announced for the 2026 lineup, such as advanced health monitoring and new workout metrics, are not yet enabled. They will arrive via software updates towards the end of the year.
Is the Apple Watch Ultra 4 worth upgrading from Ultra 3?
If you value longer battery life and faster performance, the Ultra 4 is a solid upgrade. However, since the design is identical and many new features are pending, Ultra 3 owners may want to wait until the updates are available.
What improvements does the S11 chip bring?
The S11 chip is meaningfully faster than previous generations, enabling smoother performance and supporting new sensor capabilities like more frequent heart rate readings.
As Apple continues to refine its wearable lineup, the Ultra 4 represents an incremental update focused on battery and performance. For a broader look at Apple's recent innovations, check out our detailed AirTag review. Staying informed about these updates will help you decide when to invest in the latest technology.
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