Apple unveiled the Apple Watch Series 10, showcasing a wide-angle OLED display that surpasses even the Apple Watch Ultra in size. Apple described it as having the “biggest display and thinnest design ever” for an Apple Watch. The watches are available for preorder today and for purchase September 20th.
Size, Weight, and Design
The Series 10 is 9.7mm thick, making it almost 10% thinner than the Series 9. It also weighs 20% less than the Stainless Steel Series 9. For the first time, Apple is also offering an even lighter titanium finish, replacing the previous stainless steel finish.These upgrades contribute to an overall sleeker design that makes the Series 10 the thinnest Apple Watch yet.
Battery and Faster Charging
As with every model since the original apple watch, the battery life remains unchanged and lasts for about a day. The Series 10 does however come with faster charging with the ability to charge 80% in just 30 minutes.
Enhanced Features
Apple has improved the microphone and speaker on the watch which is now designed to reduce background noise when making calls via the watch. For the first time, the Apple Watch can now play music and podcasts directly through its built-in speaker.
Additionally, the Series 10 adopts depth gauge sensor (good to 20 feet) and water temperature monitoring for both pool and open-water swimming. However, it’s important to note that the sensor is designed for general swimming and not diving.
Sleep Apnea Detection
The Apple Watch Series 10 introduces new sleep apnea detection technology, which uses machine learning algorithms to track sleep and detect breathing interruptions during the night.
Apple Watch Ultra
In contrast, the Apple Watch Ultra received no major updates at this event aside from the introduction of a new black finish and adopting the Sleep Apnea detection which is a software enhancement.
By increasing the size of the Apple Watch Series 10 and adding more advanced features like the depth sensor (though not designed for diving), Apple has reduced the gap between the Series 10 and the Ultra. However the improved battery life, included diving features, and more rugged design does allow the Apple Watch Ultra 2 to stand out against the Apple Watch 10.
Colors and Pricing
The Aluminum Series 10 comes in Silver, Jet Black and Rose Gold and starts at $399 with cellular models priced at $499. The titanium version comes Natural, Gold, or Slate and defaults with cellular for $699. The Apple Watch Ultra comes in Natural or Black and pricing remains unchanged at $799. It is worth noting that the high end Apple Watch Ultra is $200-$300 less expensive than the Fenix 8 lineup, despite possessing many of the same features. Preorder today and purchase on September 20th.
