WIRED names Apple Watch Series 12 top pick in 2026 lineup review
WIRED's wearables reviewer tested Apple's current three-model Watch lineup—Series 12, Ultra 4, and SE 3—and named the Series 12 the best overall choice. The Series 12 introduces a new Health Sensing System with a 32-electrode ECG, more frequent heart-rate and HRV tracking, a new Readiness score, and Audio Intelligence features, alongside faster charging and satellite connectivity that the Series 11 lacked.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The upgrade to more frequent, granular health monitoring suggests Apple is pushing its watches further into daily wellness tracking rather than just fitness and notifications, which could sharpen competition with dedicated health-tracking wearables. Staggered feature rollouts, such as delaying Live Rewind and Siri Recap, indicate Apple may increasingly ship hardware ahead of software capabilities.
- Series 12 features a redesigned Health Sensing System with a 32-electrode ECG and near-continuous heart-rate/HRV tracking.
- A new Readiness score estimates daily physical preparedness based on recent health data.
- Some Audio Intelligence features, including Live Rewind and Siri Recap, won't launch until later this year.
Apple Watch Series 12 — This is the flagship model the article names as the best overall Apple Watch, thanks to its upgraded Health Sensing System with a more accurate ECG and improved heart-rate tracking. It's a great pick if you want the latest health features without jumping to the pricier Ultra 4.
See Apple Watch Series 12 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, 2026-09-28
Published there as: “Best Apple Watch: Series 12, Ultra 4, and SE 3 (2026)”
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