Where to preorder the new Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4

2026-09-10 | original

read original get Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm, GPS) → more articles

Why This Matters

Apple's new Series 12 and Ultra 4 keep familiar designs but add a new S11 chip enabling Audio Intelligence features plus upgraded sensors and tracking, signaling that smartwatch competition is now about silicon and health capabilities rather than looks. Pricing stays consistent ($399 and $799), with a premium ceramic option returning for the first time since Series 5. Preorders are open now ahead of a September 18th launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models.

Key Takeaways

Series 12 starts at $399 (42mm; $50 more for 46mm), Ultra 4 at $799 with GPS and 5G.
The S11 chip powers new Audio Intelligence features, plus improved sensors and tracking.
Ceramic case option returns starting at $899; both watches launch September 18th.

Worth a Look

Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm, GPS) — If you're eyeing the new Series 12 preorder, the current Apple Watch Series 11 is the readily available way to get the same familiar design, fitness tracking and always-on display today. It pairs seamlessly with iPhone for notifications, workouts and sleep tracking, and works with the same huge ecosystem of bands.

See Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm, GPS) 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.

While both new watches look similar to their predecessors, there are a number of updates under the hood that might intrigue some people enough to warrant a preorder. My colleague Victoria Song got hands-on with both smartwatches , and runs down the biggest changes, from the Audio Intelligence features made possible by the S11 chip (included in the Series 12 and Ultra 4), plus the possible impact of its improved sensors and tracking capabilities.

If you don’t want to wait for reviews to hit before you make the purchase, the Series 12 starts at $399 at Amazon, Best Buy, and Apple itself for the 42mm size ($50 more for the 46mm). High rollers can configure one with a ceramic case (the first time ceramic has been on the menu since the Series 5) starting at $899. Like usual, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 starts at $799 from Amazon and Best Buy and comes in one size, which features GPS and 5G support. Launches will occur on September 18th, the same day as the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max.

Explore topics: apple watch series 12 apple watch ultra 4 s11 chip iphone 18 pro preorder