{"id":839047,"date":"2026-08-02T03:36:30","date_gmt":"2026-08-02T03:36:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/839047\/"},"modified":"2026-08-02T03:36:30","modified_gmt":"2026-08-02T03:36:30","slug":"best-apple-watch-for-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/839047\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Apple Watch for 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Apple Watch is the best smartwatch companion for anyone with an iPhone, but there\u2019s more than one model to choose from. In 2026, Apple sells three: the flagship Series 11<\/a>, the rugged Ultra 3<\/a> and the budget-friendly SE 3<\/a>. Which is best depends on how much you want to spend and which features matter most to you.\u00a0New software updates also bring new features like hypertension notifications<\/a> and sleep scores to older models, making a discounted previous-generation watch worth considering. Whether you\u2019re buying your first Apple Watch or upgrading from an older version, we\u2019ve tested nearly every model out there, and these are the best options available based on your needs and budget.<\/p>\n

Our Picks<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\"Apple
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBottom Line<\/p>\n

The Apple Watch Series 11 faces steep competition from within its own family, but it’s a step forward because of its versatility with a wider …<\/p>\n

\tPros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tFDA-cleared hypertension alerts<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t24+ hour battery life and fast charging<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMore reliable cellular connectivity and 5G<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t2x more scratch-resistant screen<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMore cohesive UI and seamless compatibility with iOS<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSame processor as older models<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMinimal design changes<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo dual-band GPS<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tGesture control is still limited to pre-selected options<\/p>\n

\t\t\tExpand Pros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\"Apple
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBottom Line<\/p>\n

The Apple Watch SE 3 is Apple\u2019s most affordable new smartwatch, proving that a lower price doesn\u2019t have to mean sacrificing quality or core fe…<\/p>\n

\tPros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tAlways-on display<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tUltrafast charging: 8 hours of use in just 15 minutes<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSame S10 processor as pricier Series 11 and Ultra 3<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tAlmost half the price of the flagship Apple Watch<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t5G connectivity on the cellular model<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo blood oxygen tracking or hypertension notifications<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo ECG (electrocardiogram) feature<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSmaller, dimmer display<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBattery life still limited to one full day (and night) of use<\/p>\n

\t\t\tExpand Pros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\"Apple
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBottom Line<\/p>\n

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 builds on its predecessors with the addition of 5G and satellite connectivity, which gives you an extra layer of prote…<\/p>\n

\tPros & Cons<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tTwo-day battery life<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tUltra fast charging (12% in 15 minutes)<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSatellite connectivity for off-the-grid emergencies<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBright screen for clear visibility in harsh sunlight<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tOnly one (49mm) sizing option<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t$800 price tag is double that of the Series 11<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tRugged design is less versatile than other models<\/p>\n

\t\t\tExpand Pros & Cons<\/p>\n

Read more: Win a New Apple Watch in CNET Big Guessing Game Contest<\/a><\/p>\n

\"Apple<\/p>\n

What is the best Apple Watch?<\/p>\n

The Apple Watch Series 11 is the best Apple Watch for most people. It earned CNET\u2019s Labs Award for most accurate heart rate tracking after outperforming competitors like the Garmin Venu 4, Google Pixel Watch 4, Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 and Amazfit Bip 6 (the SE 3 and Ultra 2 were not included in this test). It also received an Editors\u2019 Choice Award for its durability upgrades, advanced health tools, brighter display and improved battery life.<\/p>\n

While the other Apple Watches on this list share many core features: similar processors and health sensors, the Series 11 stands out as the Goldilocks pick. It strikes the right balance between performance, features and price.<\/p>\n

Best Apple Watches for 2026<\/p>\n

\n\t\t\tVanessa Hand Orellana\/CNET\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBest all-around\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tApple Watch Series 11\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tFDA-cleared hypertension alerts\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t24+ hour battery life and fast charging\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMore reliable cellular connectivity and 5G\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t2x more scratch-resistant screen\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMore cohesive UI and seamless compatibility with iOS\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSame processor as older models\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tMinimal design changes\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo dual-band GPS\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tGesture control is still limited to pre-selected options\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

The Apple Watch Series 11<\/a> faces steep competition from within its own family, but it\u2019s a step forward because of its versatility with a wider range of pricing options, sizes and features. It takes an already great Apple Watch (the Series 10) and adds subtle but meaningful improvements, like six hours more battery life, 5G connectivity, and potentially life-saving hypertension notifications.<\/p>\n

Battery life is officially rated for 24 hours, but in my testing, I regularly stretched it closer to 30 hours depending on use. And with ultrafast charging, just 15 minutes on the puck gives you enough power for a full night of sleep tracking. That consistency makes a real difference, since health features like sleep apnea alerts, ovulation predictions, and overnight vitals tracking all depend on wearing the watch to bed.<\/p>\n

Why we like it<\/p>\n

The Series 11 is still the Goldilocks of the lineup: sleek, comfortable, and versatile enough to transition from workouts to workdays to nights out. It balances price, features, and design better than any other Apple Watch.<\/p>\n

Who it\u2019s best for<\/p>\n

Apple fans craving deep integration with the ecosystem and more ways to customize their watch will find the Series 11 a strong fit. It\u2019s ideal for anyone upgrading from an older model who wants a sleeker design, better battery life and every health feature possible, without the bulk or cost of the Ultra 3.<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCompatibility\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tiOS\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tScreen size and shape\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t42 or 46 millimeters, square\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHealth features\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHypertension notifications, sleep apnea notifications, sleep tracking, heart health notifications, temperature tracking, ECG, irregular heart rhythm notifications, workout tracking, heart rate, cycle tracking\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\n\t\t\tVanessa Hand Orellana\/CNET\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBest value\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tApple Watch SE 3\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tAlways-on display\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tUltrafast charging: 8 hours of use in just 15 minutes\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSame S10 processor as pricier Series 11 and Ultra 3\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tAlmost half the price of the flagship Apple Watch\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t5G connectivity on the cellular model\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo blood oxygen tracking or hypertension notifications\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tNo ECG (electrocardiogram) feature\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSmaller, dimmer display\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBattery life still limited to one full day (and night) of use\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

The Apple Watch SE 3<\/a> is Apple\u2019s most affordable new smartwatch, proving that a lower price doesn\u2019t have to mean sacrificing quality or core features. The always-on display, faster charging and expanded health features put it on par with its higher-end siblings, making it easy to forget this is the entry-level model.\u00a0<\/p>\n

While it skips a few advanced health metrics like ECG and hypertension alerts, most people won\u2019t miss them in day-to-day use. It also has a shorter battery life than the rest, but it holds up to a full day of real-world use, including a 40-minute outdoor workout (GPS-enabled) and sleep tracking.<\/p>\n

Why we like it<\/p>\n

You\u2019re getting the same processor and nearly all the features found in the higher-end Series 11 (almost twice the price) and the Ultra 3 (three times the price), making it a solid value. The Apple Watch SE 3 has Apple\u2019s latest updates like 5G connectivity, ultrafast charging and new wellness tools such as Sleep Score and Workout Buddy, along with features from older models like temperature tracking and sleep apnea notifications.<\/p>\n

Who it\u2019s best for<\/p>\n

The SE 3 is the Apple Watch we\u2019d recommend for most people. It\u2019s the most affordable way to access Apple\u2019s newest features without feeling like you\u2019re missing out. It\u2019s ideal for first-time Apple Watch owners or those upgrading from older models (Series 7 or earlier). It\u2019s also a great first smartwatch for kids, allowing parents to stay connected without introducing a smartphone.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re at higher health risk and want ECG or blood pressure monitoring, the Series 11 might be worth the extra cost. Those prioritizing longer battery life or a larger display should look at the Ultra 3.<\/p>\n

\n\t\t\tApple Watch Ultra 3\u00a0 \/ Vanessa Hand Orellana\/CNET\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPowerhouse pick\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tApple Watch Ultra 3\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tTwo-day battery life\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tUltra fast charging (12% in 15 minutes)\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tSatellite connectivity for off-the-grid emergencies\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tBright screen for clear visibility in harsh sunlight\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tOnly one (49mm) sizing option\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t$800 price tag is double that of the Series 11\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\tRugged design is less versatile than other models\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

The Apple Watch Ultra 3<\/a> builds on its predecessors with the addition of 5G and satellite connectivity, which gives you an extra layer of protection when you\u2019re off the grid. It also comes with a faster processor, longer battery life, potentially life-saving hypertension notifications<\/a>, and (to my surprise) a design that isn\u2019t nearly as bulky as I feared, even for sleep.<\/p>\n

In today\u2019s smartwatch landscape, the Ultra 3 sits between two extremes: feature-first rivals like Samsung<\/a> and Google<\/a>, and endurance-first brands like Garmin, with their week-long battery life and robust satellite tools. The Ultra 3 bridges the gap, offering rugged reliability alongside the seamless iPhone<\/a> integration that only an Apple Watch can deliver.<\/p>\n

Why we like it<\/p>\n

The Ultra 3 is like a Land Rover<\/a> for your wrist: ready for adventure, but still convenient and sleek enough to transition back into everyday life. Its two-day battery life stretches further than any Apple Watch, making it more practical for longer workouts, outdoor adventures and round-the-clock health tracking. Satellite connectivity adds a new safety net that strengthens Apple\u2019s already impressive portfolio of emergency features, extending its reach even when you\u2019re entirely off the grid.<\/p>\n

Who it\u2019s best for<\/p>\n

The Ultra 3 is ideal for athletes and sports enthusiasts who aren\u2019t ready to commit to a dedicated sports watch but need a watch they can push harder in terms of durability and battery life without sacrificing the seamless integration of Apple\u2019s ecosystem. If you upgrade from the original Ultra, the longer battery life, faster charging, and improved processor will also feel like a welcome upgrade.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCompatibility\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tiOS\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tScreen size and shape\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t49 millimeters, Square\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tScreen size and shape\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHypertension notifications, sleep score and sleep tracking, heart rate tracking, high and low heart rate notifications, irregular rhythm notifications, ECG, cycle tracking, medications app, mindfulness app, noise app\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

Best Apple Watches Compared<\/p>\n

Apple Watch Series 11Apple Watch Ultra 3Apple Watch SE (3rd Gen)Design & sizesRectangular, 42mm, 46mmRectangular, 49mmRectangular, 40mm, 44mmDisplay42mm: 446 \u00d7 374 pixels; LTPO3 OLED Retina display (wide-angle)
\n46mm: 496 \u00d7 416 pixels; LTPO3 OLED Retina display (wide-angle)49mm: 514 \u00d7 422 pixels; LTPO3 OLED Retina display (wide-angle, Always-On)44mm: 368 \u00d7 448 pixels (Always-On Retina LTPO OLED)
\nApple
\n40mm: 324 \u00d7 394 pixels (Always-On Retina LTPO OLED)Brightness Between 1 and 2000 nitsBetween 1 and 3000 nitsUp to 1000 nitsThickness & weight46mm: 9.7mm; 37.8g (aluminum GPS), 36.9g (aluminum GPS+Cellular), 43.1g (titanium)
\n42mm: 9.7mm; 30.3g (aluminum GPS), 29.7g (aluminum GPS+Cellular), 34.6g (titanium)49mm: 14.4mm; 61.6g (titanium)44mm: 10.7mm; 33.0g (aluminum GPS+Cellular)
\n40mm: 10.7mm; 26.4g (aluminum GPS+Cellular)Material & finishAluminum: Jet black, Rose gold or Silver finish; Titanium: Slate, Gold or Natural finish with saphire crystal dysplay (titanium) Titanium, natural or black finish with saphire crystal dysplay (titanium) 100% recycled aluminum, midnight and starlightDurability2X more scratch resistant glass (aluminum), 5ATM Water + IP6X (dust)Water resistance 100m; dust IP6X, scuba to 40m, tested to MIL-STD 810HCover glass is 4X times more resistant to cracks than the SE 2; made of Ion-X glass. Water resistant
\nup to 50 meters.Battery lifeUp to 24 hours, up to 38 hours Low Power (always-on) + Fast charge: 80% in 30 min, 100% in 60 minUp to 42 hours; up to 72 hours Low Power. Fast charge to 80% in 45 min, 100% charge 75 minAll-day, 18-hour battery life. Fast charging with 8 hours of normal use in just 15 minutes on the charger. SensorsECG, 3rd-gen optical heart sensor, skin temp, depth gauge, SpO2, Noise monitoring, water temperature, compassECG, 3rd-gen optical heart sensor, skin temp, depth gauge, SpO2, Noise monitoring, water temperature, compassWrist temperature, Second-generation optical heart sensor, Noise monitoring, compassEmergency featuresEmergency SOS, Fall detection, Crash detection, Check-in and BacktrackSatellite SOS, Emergency SOS, Fall detection, Crash detection, Check-in and BacktrackFall Detection, Crash Detection, Emergency SOS, and Check-InAI & coachingSiri (voice assistant); Workout BuddySiri (voice assistant); Workout BuddySiri (voice assistant); Workout BuddyProcessorS10 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor, W3
\nApple wireless chipS10 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor, W3
\nApple wireless chipS10 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor, W3
\nApple wireless chipRAM\/Storage64GB (storage)64GB (storage)64GB (storage)PaymentsApple PayApple PayApple PayPrice (US)$399-$750 (titanium)$799$249 (starting)<\/p>\n

Recent updates<\/p>\n

In October 2025, we added the Apple Watch SE to replaced the second generation SE as the latest entry-level model.<\/p>\n

Factors to consider when buying an Apple Watch<\/p>\n

All Apple Watches share the same core DNA: a square screen with rounded edges, a rotating crown, interchangeable straps and Apple\u2019s WatchOS<\/a> with Siri integration.<\/p>\n

The differences lie in the details with factors like advanced health sensors, durability, battery life and screen size. Oh, and price.<\/p>\n

\"AppleLisa Eadicicco\/CNET<\/p>\n

Budget: If you\u2019re on a budget and want the best deal, it might be worth waiting for major discount days like Black Friday when most retailers, including Apple, offer sales or gift-card cash-back incentives. Another way to cut costs is by purchasing a refurbished Apple Watch directly from Apple. They come with the same one-year warranty as new models, eligibility for AppleCare and a 14-day return window.<\/p>\n

Design: There are a lot of ways to customize your Apple Watch, including different finishes and watch bands. But dressing up your Apple Watch doesn\u2019t always come cheap and some of the more premium design options like the titanium finish and stainless steel band can increase the base price by $600. You can also customize the size of your screen; older models or the SE 3 will have the smallest option (40mm) while the Apple Watch Ultra 3 offers the largest (49mm) display.<\/p>\n

Battery: Battery life continues to be a major pain point for Apple Watch users, with no model going past the three-day mark like some Android models. And while Apple has made strides in this category, it\u2019s best to taper your expectations by accepting that you\u2019ll probably get about 24-30 hours of use on a single charge (with the always on display) on most models. If that\u2019s a deal breaker, you\u2019ll need to splurge on the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which is the only model that lasts up to 48 hours (or 72 hours on battery saving mode).<\/p>\n

\"AppleJeff Carlson\/CNET<\/p>\n

Wi-Fi Only vs. Cellular: Most users will find the Wi-Fi version sufficient. It tracks workouts and makes mobile payments independently from the phone but needs to be in range of your iPhone to access some of the smart features like notifications, messaging and calls. Cellular and Wi-Fi models are only worth the splurge (an additional $100) if you plan to ditch your iPhone on a regular basis and need the watch to be a standalone device and have access to all the features. And it\u2019s your only option if you\u2019re buying the Ultra 2 as it doesn\u2019t offer a Wi-Fi only option.<\/p>\n

How we test Apple Watches<\/p>\n

We test all our Apple Watches in the real world and focus on any new features or claims in addition to all the other features you\u2019ll be using on a regular basis like fitness tracking and connectivity. All Apple Watches, including the cellular models, need to connect to an iPhone so we also assess how easy the companion software is to navigate.<\/p>\n

\"AppleCarly Marsh\/CNET<\/p>\n

Durability and design: Smartwatches are something you wear on your body so we assess how comfortable they are to wear. We also know that everyone has a different-sized wrist so we try to see how it fits and feels on a variety of people. Then we look at how it stands up to wear and tear with daily life. Some models, like the Ultra 2, offer increased durability like dust resistance or water resistance that\u2019s suited for activities like scuba diving and, where possible, we\u2019ll test this out for ourselves.<\/p>\n

Battery: Battery life will vary depending on how you use a smartwatch so we test battery life with a few standard tests. We see how long it generally lasts on a single charge with features that represent typical use, like the always-on display, sleep tracking and doing one outdoor workout with GPS.<\/p>\n

\"Apple<\/p>\n

Yes, you can take calls, talk to Siri or use the Walkie Talkie feature to chat with your friends and family who also have Apple Watches, but you might get some funny looks.<\/p>\n

Charles Wagner\/CNET<\/p>\n

Fitness and health sensor accuracy: We test the accuracy of the Apple Watch using a few different methods. The heart rate sensor, for example, is compared against the readings taken from a chest strap, considered the gold standard in consumer heart rate tracking, during a variety of cardio-based activities like running or cycling. We also check to see how long it takes to connect to a GPS signal when doing an outdoor workout. Other health sensors, like a blood oxygen sensor (not active on newer models), are compared against a pulse oximeter for spot readings where possible, and for the ECG feature, we tested it against a hospital grade ECG<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Other Apple Watches we tested<\/p>\n

While no longer sold directly by Apple, the Apple Watch Series 10<\/a> is still a strong option if you can find it. Stores like Best Buy and Walmart often have it in stock for about $70 less than the Series 11. You\u2019ll miss out on the slightly longer battery life, but its running on the same processor (S10 chip) and still includes key health features not available on the cheaper SE 3, like the ECG app, and hypertension notifications.<\/p>\n

Apple Watch FAQs<\/p>\n

What is the best alternative to an Apple Watch?<\/p>\n

Unless you\u2019re ready to switch from your iPhone to an Android device, it\u2019s best to avoid Wear OS watches like Samsung\u2019s Galaxy Watch<\/a> or Google\u2019s Pixel Watch<\/a>, as they offer limited compatibility with Apple devices. Instead, consider watches that run proprietary operating systems, such as Garmin\u2019s Venu 3<\/a> or Huawei\u2019s Watch Fit 3. Garmin is known for its fitness-focused models for athletes but they also offer solid smartwatch features. The Amazfit Bip 6 is also worth considering for a simpler, budget-friendly option that covers the basics.\u00a0<\/p>\n

What is the best Apple Watch for kids?<\/p>\n

The best Apple Watch for kids is the Apple Watch SE 3 with Wi-Fi and Cellular. A feature fittingly called \u201cApple Watch for your Kids\u201d allows parents to set up the watch from their own iPhones<\/a> without needing a separate iPhone for the child. Parents can track the location of their kid in real time and manage who their kids can contact during what times to minimize distractions during school hours. Even if you wanted to treat your kid to one of the newer models, key features like ECG, wrist temperature and sleep tracking are disabled in this mode anyway. Read more: Apple Watch for Kids<\/a><\/p>\n

What to know about the blood oxygen sensor<\/p>\n

If you\u2019ve purchased an Apple Watch within the past year, you may have noticed the Blood Oxygen feature in your app list wouldn\u2019t load. That wasn\u2019t a glitch; Apple had to disable SpO2 (blood oxygen) tracking in units sold in the Unites States after Jan. 18, 2024, because of a patent dispute with medical tech company Masimo.<\/p>\n

A recent software update reintroduces blood oxygen monitoring on the Apple Watch<\/a> Series 9 (or higher), SE 3 and Apple Watch Ultras (2 and 3) in the US, but with a slightly different setup than before. The key difference: While the sensor still collects the raw data on the watch, the measurement and calculation now happen on your paired iPhone. You can view the results in the Respiratory section of the Health app.<\/p>\n

To get the feature, your iPhone needs to be updated to iOS 18.6.1 and your Apple Watch must be running WatchOS 11.6.1.<\/p>\n

What to look forward to in 2026<\/p>\n

Smartwatches are only getting smarter about health, and the Apple Watch is no exception. Whether it\u2019s better sensors, new metrics or more personalized coaching, Apple is taking notes from competitors like Garmin and Google and leaning more on AI to make sense of your data.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, the definition of a wearable is expanding fast, with more smart rings making their debuts and upgraded earbud options with built-in health sensors already nudging into smartwatch territory. They probably won\u2019t replace watches entirely, but they\u2019re definitely raising the bar and will continue giving the Apple Watch a healthy push forward.<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Vanessa\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tVanessa Hand Orellana\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPrincipal Writer\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n

\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tVanessa is a lead writer at CNET, reviewing and writing about the latest smartwatches and fitness trackers. She joined the brand first as an on-camera reporter for CNET’s Spanish-language site, then moved on to the English side to host and produce some of CNET’s videos and YouTube series. When she’s not testing out the latest health tech, you can catch her on a hike or trail run with her family.
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tSee full bio\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The Apple Watch is the best smartwatch companion for anyone with an iPhone, but there\u2019s more than one…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":839048,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[17],"tags":[64,63,213,105],"class_list":["post-839047","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-gadgets","tag-au","tag-australia","tag-gadgets","tag-technology"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/839047","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=839047"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/839047\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/839048"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=839047"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=839047"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=839047"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}