The new Apple Watch Series 8 and Apple Watch SE also update two of the models most sought after by users: it is a linear progression of the product where in this generation there are also interesting changes than the temperature sensor or the detection of serious car accidents, although the design is maintained.
Apple Watch Series 8 and Apple Watch SE, first contact
The design of these new models is identical to those we already know from previous generations. The colors of the case of the Apple Watch Series 8 are very classic but are easily comb ined in the clothes or the style of our daily life. The 8 Series has an 18-saving battery life – which gets better with the new Low Power Mode.
The new temperature sensor activates in the background to alert you to unusual measurements, as well as crash detection – with dedicated accelerometers and a surprising G-force sensing engine for such a well-known design.
The myriad of color, material, and strap combinations make the new Series 8 just about any design you want. Personally, I wish that at least the charging method had changed to the Qi standard that the rest of the products already have.
The Apple Watch SE also arrives as the brand’s “cheap” watch, but it’s updated with a new redesigned back like the Apple Watch already wore from the Apple Watch Series 6.
Apple Watch Ultra, first contact
The Apple Watch Ultra thing, despite expecting the “Pro” surname, was one of the big surprises of the afternoon. Now we know that the renders that leaked last year were not for a new Series 7 or Series 8, but for this model designed for sports and extreme activities.
Everything about this model goes beyond – as the title of this Apple event – a 49mm titanium case and sapphire crystal. A giant screen that’s also one of the brightest an Apple Watch has ever had.
In person, the watch on the wrist isn’t as huge as you might think: it’s big, but not as big as more professional watches from other brands, and the design helps pack it down, especially around the edges. .
It doesn’t feel heavy, at least in the minutes I got to try it on – something that surprised me due to its size. The case is designed to protect the Retina display – which goes up to 2000 nits – and the action button stands out but doesn’t get in the way of use.
The interaction of this action button is very well resolved on the Apple Watch Ultra, which even seems to enter the screen when pressed so that the user can see that it has been activated. This will help a lot in complicated usage situations, such as diving.
It also has nothing more and nothing less than three built-in microphones, dramatically improving call quality. There’s a new algorithm that uses mics to capture voice and reduce background noise – and that’ll come in handy when you’re running up a windy mountain, for example, and want to make a call.
The suspenders also attract a lot of attention and are also “ultra”, made to withstand extreme situations, very very light (it is noticeable very well in the hand) and with a fabric that is much softer and a little more breathable than the usual. In addition, it closes securely thanks to a double anchor.
There are straps specifically designed for water sports, with a titanium buckle that ensures a secure fit. There is also an extra long version to wear over the suit, which will be appreciated during wetsuit dives.
It’s yet to be thoroughly tested, but the new Ultra promises things we never thought we’d see on an Apple Watch – with watchOS tweaks that many have been asking the brand to bring closer to the big kings of these sports. How it works in detail, very soon in the reviews.