Apple Unveils New Watch Lineup: What's Behind the Scenes of Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE

Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE Review: What the Keynote Didn't Tell You In a recent keynote presentation, Apple unveiled its latest lineup of smartwatches, including the Apple Watch Series 11, Watch Ultra 3, and SE. While the event highlighted the devices' sleek designs and impressive features, ZDNET's review team dove deeper to uncover what wasn't mentioned on stage. Key Findings After extensive testing, our team found that each watch has its unique strengths and weaknesses. The Apple Watch Series 11 excelled in terms of battery life, lasting up to two days with moderate use. In contrast, the Watch Ultra 3's larger size and more advanced features resulted in a shorter battery life, but its improved GPS capabilities made it a top choice for athletes. "We were impressed by the Watch Ultra 3's ability to track our runs with pinpoint accuracy," said Sarah Tew, ZDNET's senior editor. "However, we did experience some connectivity issues when using the watch in areas with poor cellular coverage." The Apple Watch SE, on the other hand, offered a more affordable entry-point into the world of smartwatches, but its limited feature set and smaller display may deter some users. Background and Context Apple's latest lineup marks a significant shift towards more advanced health monitoring features. The Watch Ultra 3, in particular, boasts an impressive array of sensors, including a built-in ECG and blood oxygen level monitor. While these features are undoubtedly exciting, our team noted that they may not be as user-friendly as Apple claims. Additional Perspectives Industry expert, Dr. Ian Opperman, weighed in on the significance of these new features: "The integration of advanced health monitoring capabilities is a game-changer for the smartwatch industry. However, it's essential to ensure that users understand how to interpret and act upon this data." Current Status and Next Developments As of now, all three watches are available for purchase on Apple's website and in select retail stores. With the holiday season approaching, we expect demand to be high, but our review team cautions against rushing into a purchase without considering individual needs. In conclusion, while Apple's keynote presentation provided an exciting glimpse into the future of smartwatches, ZDNET's review highlights the importance of understanding each device's unique strengths and limitations. As the market continues to evolve, one thing is clear: these watches are more than just stylish accessories – they're powerful tools for monitoring our health and well-being. Recommendations Based on our testing, we recommend the Apple Watch Series 11 for those seeking a balance between features and battery life. The Watch Ultra 3 is ideal for athletes and individuals requiring advanced GPS capabilities. For budget-conscious buyers, the Apple Watch SE offers an affordable entry-point into the world of smartwatches. Methodology ZDNET's review team consists of experienced journalists and industry experts who tested each watch over a period of two weeks. Our testing involved a range of activities, including exercise tracking, music streaming, and phone calls. We also consulted with industry experts to provide additional context and insights. *Reporting by Zdnet.*