GoKawiilApple Watch Ultra 4 barely differs from Series 12 despite $400 price gap
WIRED's testing of the Apple Watch Ultra 4 found it shares nearly all core health and safety features with the new Series 12, thanks to the same Health Sensing System and S11 chip powering both devices. The Ultra 4 retains its multiday battery, Action button, and satellite messaging as its main distinctions, but pricing stays at $799 with no new case finishes this generation.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
As Apple narrows the feature gap between its flagship rugged watch and standard model, the Ultra line becomes a niche product for outdoor adventurers rather than a mainstream upgrade. This raises questions about whether Apple can justify the Ultra's premium price if the Series watch keeps absorbing its signature capabilities year after year.
- Ultra 4 and Series 12 now share the same Health Sensing System and S11 chip.
- Ultra 4's main advantages are multiday battery life, satellite messaging, and the Action button.
- Price remains $799 with no new finishes, making it a tougher sell against the cheaper Series 12.
Apple Watch Ultra 4 — If you're the kind of person who actually ventures off-grid—trail running, diving, or backcountry trips—the Ultra 4 offers a multiday battery, dedicated Action button, and satellite messaging that make it a genuinely useful safety tool. It's titanium-clad and built to handle rugged conditions better than the standard Series lineup. For adventurers, it's a smartwatch that goes beyond fitness tracking into real emergency preparedness.
See Apple Watch Ultra 4 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: wired.com — Boutayna Chokrane, 2026-09-18
Published there as: “Apple Watch Ultra 4 Review: The Series 12 Is Closing the Gap”
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