Apple has officially launched the Apple Watch Ultra 3, its most rugged and advanced smartwatch yet, unveiled on September 9 during the company’s “awe dropping” event. Arriving alongside the iPhone 17 series, AirPods Pro 3, and Apple Watch Series 11, the Ultra 3 is now available to order — and early deals are already helping buyers save.
Apple Watch Ultra 3: What’s New
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 continues Apple’s push into premium wearables designed for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals. Its standout feature is the larger LPTO3 OLED always-on Retina display, offering improved brightness and durability over the previous generation.
Apple previously won praise with the Ultra 2, which was named one of the best smartwatches of 2025. Expectations for the Ultra 3 are high, as it promises better performance, rugged design upgrades, and advanced health and fitness tracking.
How Much Does the Apple Watch Ultra 3 Cost?
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 starts at $799 (£799, AU$1,399). Buyers can upgrade to the titanium Milanese loop band for an additional $100.
Given Apple’s reputation for premium pricing, many shoppers are looking for ways to cut costs. Several retailers and carriers are already offering trade-in programs and discounts, with more deals expected to roll out in the coming weeks.
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Should You Upgrade?
CNET’s experts are currently testing the Ultra 3, with a full Apple Watch Ultra 3 review coming soon. Early impressions suggest it could be a worthwhile upgrade for users with older models, offering significant improvements in battery life, display quality, and performance.
Also Read: Google Prepares Androidify Watch Faces for Wear OS Smartwatches
However, if you already own a relatively new Apple Watch, such as the Series 10 or Ultra 2, it may be worth waiting for in-depth comparisons before deciding. For those who don’t need the Ultra’s full suite of features, the newly released Apple Watch Series 11 offers a more affordable flagship alternative.
Not ready to upgrade? Discounts remain available on earlier models, including the Apple Watch Series 10, Series 9, SE, and Ultra 2. Shoppers considering Android alternatives can also find competitive deals on the Samsung Galaxy Watch and Google Pixel Watch.
