Apple Watch Ultra 2 debuts in stylish black titanium finish

Apple has introduced the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in a new black titanium finish, alongside the watchOS 11 operating system. The release also includes additional features such as sleep apnoea notifications and a new Titanium Milanese Loop band.

Jeff Williams, Apple's chief operating officer, commented, "Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the ultimate sports watch, with features that support athletes at every level of their training and performance — and throughout their day and night. The breakthrough insights in watchOS 11 make Apple Watch Ultra 2 even more powerful, and it's now available in a stunning satin-black titanium finish users will love for its striking look and durability."

The black titanium finish is the result of a custom blasting process. The diamond-like carbon physical vapour deposition coating enhances its scratch resistance and durability. The back crystal is made from dark zirconia to match the new design.

The new Titanium Milanese Loop band, also woven from aerospace-grade titanium, has been specifically designed for water activities while maintaining a lightweight and elegant appearance. This band is the first metal band for the Apple Watch Ultra and will be available in both natural and black titanium finishes.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 boasts the brightest display Apple has designed to date, at 3000 nits. It features dual-frequency GPS technology that provides precise data for outdoor activities. The precision is achieved through advanced satellite and signal models, custom positioning algorithms, and Apple Maps data.

watchOS 11 introduces several new functionalities, including the Vitals app to monitor overnight health metrics and the Training Load feature that analyses how workouts impact the user's body over time. Other new features include customisable options for the Action button and a Tides app designed for water activities.

The newly developed sleep apnoea notification system employs the accelerometer to detect interruptions in respiratory patterns during sleep. It notifies users if it identifies signs of sleep apnoea and offers educational resources and a PDF of three months of breathing disturbance data to assist in consultations with healthcare providers. This feature is expected to receive marketing authorisation from the FDA and other global health authorities and will be available in more than 150 countries and regions this month.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 provides extensive features for various sports, including running, cycling, swimming, hiking, diving, and golfing. Runners can benefit from advanced metrics and a battery life that can last up to 35 hours with low-power settings. Cyclists can use Bluetooth-enabled cycling accessories for additional metrics, and swimmers can access automatic stroke detection and lap count features. Hikers can utilise offline maps and GPS data in the Compass app, while divers have the Oceanic+ app which now includes features for snorkelers.

The watchOS 11 update also allows for audio playback through the built-in speakers of the Apple Watch Ultra 2, compatible with apps such as Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, and Apple Books.

Other enhancements with watchOS 11 include customised activity rings, more intelligent Smart Stacks, and several new workout types that enhance GPS positioning. The update also introduces a new Photos watch face and various tools for apps like Translate and Check-In.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the new bands, including the Titanium Milanese Loop, are available for pre-order now and will be in stores from 20 September. watchOS 11 is set for release on 16 September for Apple Watch Series 6 or later and requires iPhone Xs or later running iOS 18.