GoKawiilApple Watch Series 12 keeps $399 price, adds S11 chip and Siri AI
Apple introduced the Watch Series 12 at its September event, retaining last year's design but overhauling internals with a new S11 chip and upgraded health sensors. The device gains features like more accurate heart rate tracking, deeper recovery data, and an AI-powered Audio Intelligence tool that can record, transcribe and save conversations. Despite these upgrades and new colors, Apple held the starting price at $399, while the Watch Ultra 4 starts at $799.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Holding the price steady while boosting internals signals Apple is prioritizing feature parity and AI capability over margin expansion for wearables, even as iPhone prices rise. The addition of a more capable Siri AI on-wrist, powered by the new S11 chip, suggests Apple is positioning the Watch as a testbed for smarter, more contextual assistant experiences ahead of wider rollout.
- Series 12 keeps the same design but adds a new S11 chip and improved health sensors.
- New Audio Intelligence feature can record, transcribe and save conversations using AI.
- Pricing stays at $399 for Series 12 and $799 for Ultra 4 despite the upgrades.
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) — If you want Apple's flagship watch experience right now, the Series 11 delivers the same familiar design the article notes Apple keeps year after year, with health tracking, workout metrics and deep iPhone integration. It's a great pick whether you're upgrading early or waiting to see what the next generation brings.
See Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: cnet.com — Vanessa Hand Orellana, 2026-09-09
Published there as: “Apple Watch Series 12: Familiar Design, Different Everywhere Else”
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