Apple launched the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 in the UAE, with prices starting at AED 1,599 and AED 3,199 respectively. Pre-orders for both models are now open, with retail sales scheduled to begin on September 18.
The new watches introduce upgraded heart-rate sensing, a daily readiness score and faster charging. The Series 12 comes in 42mm and 46mm sizes. The Ultra 4 is offered in natural and black titanium finishes. Both models use Apple’s S11 chip and its new Health Sensing System.
The updated optical heart sensor measures heart rate every five seconds throughout the day. Heart-rate variability readings are also captured more frequently, giving users separate recovery and overall HRV information. Apple added a daytime vitals view to complement overnight measurements. The system compares recovery HRV with a user’s personal baseline to track daily changes.
The new readiness feature gives users a score from zero to 10. It combines recent activity, training load, vital signs, and sleep data. The watch then offers guidance ranging from recovery to more active training. Battery performance also improved on both models. Ultra 4 delivers up to 50 hours of regular use and up to 84 hours in Low Power Mode. A 15-minute charge can provide up to 18 hours of battery life. Series 12 offers up to 24 hours of everyday use. Its outdoor workout battery life reaches 10 hours, while a 15-minute charge can provide up to 12 hours.
Apple also redesigned step tracking with machine-learning algorithms. A new Steps complication lets users view their daily count directly on the watch face. The S11 chip supports Sound Recognition for sirens, alarms, doorbells and a baby crying. Apple said audio processing takes place through a hardware-isolated Secure Enclave, with raw audio deleted after processing.
Both watches will support watchOS 27 from September 14. The software update adds new Smart Stack suggestions, a single-handed tap gesture and expanded health-tracking features.
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