Apple’s “Awe Dropping” event on September 9 unveiled a new range of smartwatches: the Apple Watch Series 11, Watch Ultra 3, and Watch SE 3. These models feature significant upgrades, notably the introduction of 5G connectivity, marking them as the first Apple Watches to support next-generation networks. However, there’s a limitation for Indian consumers: at launch, 5G functionality is only available for Jio customers, leaving Airtel users restricted to 4G for the time being. Apple has not provided a timeline for when Airtel will be compatible, despite the fact that the carrier already offers 5G services for iPhones. Apple has confirmed that its new watches will be compatible with 5G in select regions and with specific partner carriers.
The markets included at launch are the US, UK, India, Switzerland, Thailand, Japan, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, UAE, China, and parts of Europe and Africa. In India, only Reliance Jio is supported initially. The global carrier list includes major companies like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile in the US; EE and Three in the UK; SoftBank, NTT Docomo, and au in Japan; along with Singtel and M1 in Singapore. Additionally, carriers such as Zain and du are expected to provide the service in the Middle East and Africa. Not all regions will have access to 5G on the new Apple watches right away.
Countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia will only have 4G connectivity available, along with various regions in Europe, South America, Africa, and Asia. The Apple Watch Series 11 features new practical tools aimed at health and lifestyle improvements. For the first time, it includes a hypertension monitor that tracks high blood pressure. Sleep monitoring has been enhanced with a personalized sleep score, providing insights into sleep quality. Durability has also been improved with better screen protection, while 5G support enhances connectivity. Internally, Apple continues to use the S10 chip from the previous model. The Series 11 is priced at ₹46,900 in India and $399 in the US.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple’s most advanced wearable, introduces satellite connectivity, allowing users to send messages or issue emergency alerts in areas without cellular service. It features a larger LTPO3 LED display for clearer visuals and improved energy efficiency. The battery life is impressive, with Apple claiming up to 42 hours under normal use, extendable to 72 hours in low-power mode. Like the Series 11, the Ultra 3 includes hypertension tracking and sleep scoring. In India, the starting price for the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is ₹89,900, while it is priced at $799 in the US. With these launches, Apple has transformed the functionality of its smartwatch, integrating health monitoring, next-gen connectivity, and safety features.
However, for Indian consumers, the enthusiasm is tempered by the exclusion of Airtel users from 5G access.