GoKawiilApple Watch Series 12 review: refined hardware, but Android rivals close the gap
Android Authority's review of the Apple Watch Series 12 finds the device largely unchanged in size and design from the Series 10 and 11, with incremental upgrades to battery charging, sensors, and health features. The 46mm aluminum model starts at $449, with a 42mm version from $399, and the watch remains iPhone-exclusive. The reviewer concludes software, performance, and display quality remain strong, but says competing smartwatches have now matched or exceeded some of Apple's capabilities.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The review suggests Apple's long-standing lead in smartwatch design and features is narrowing as rival manufacturers improve their own hardware and software, which could pressure Apple to accelerate innovation in future models. For consumers, this indicates that the choice of smartwatch may increasingly hinge on phone ecosystem lock-in rather than a clear performance gap. The reviewer's personal preference for the Apple Watch despite testing many alternatives highlights how ecosystem familiarity can outweigh incremental feature differences.
- Apple Watch Series 12 keeps the same design and dimensions as Series 10 and 11, with upgrades to charging, sensors, and health tracking.
- Pricing starts at $399 for the 42mm model and $449 for the 46mm aluminum version; it works only with iPhones.
- The reviewer says competing Android-compatible smartwatches have caught up to, and in some areas surpassed, the Apple Watch's capabilities.
Apple Watch Series 10 — If the Series 12's blend of polish, health tracking, and seamless iPhone integration appeals to you, the Apple Watch lineup remains the gold standard for Apple users. It pairs beautifully with your iPhone for notifications, fitness tracking, and everyday convenience. A great pick for anyone deep in the Apple ecosystem looking to upgrade their wrist tech.
See Apple Watch Series 10 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: androidauthority.com, 2026-11-06
Published there as: “The Apple Watch Series 12 is still superb, but Google has caught up”
Read the original report → The summary and analysis above are GoKawiil's own, written from reporting by the source above. Facts and quotes belong to the original publisher.