Apple Watch Series 12 is on the way. We recommend waiting unless you need a watch right now.
📅 Add launch to calendarSeries 12 launch window — Series 11 prices will drop significantly as Apple and retailers clear inventory.
Expected fall 2026
The Series 12 is rumoured to introduce sleep apnea expansion, a new chip, and potentially blood glucose sensing — launching alongside iPhone 18.
| Model | Battery | GPS | Key Sensors | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Series 11 (42mm) | ~24h (36h low power) | Yes, L1+L5 dual-freq | ECG, SpO2, hypertension, skin temp | Compact daily health tracking. |
| Series 11 (46mm) | ~24h (36h low power) | Yes, L1+L5 dual-freq | ECG, SpO2, hypertension, skin temp | Larger screen and slightly longer battery. |
iPhone users who want the most capable smartwatch health experience available. Ideal for anyone who values medical-grade monitoring (ECG, blood pressure, SpO2), a premium always-on display, and the best Apple Watch workout tracking. If health is your priority, this is the one to get.
Key strengths
The Series 11 is the first mainstream smartwatch to offer FDA-cleared hypertension (high blood pressure) detection — a feature that could flag silent health risks.
At 9.7mm, the Series 11 is significantly slimmer than previous models — noticeably lighter on the wrist for all-day and sleep tracking.
On-demand ECG, continuous blood oxygen monitoring, and sleep apnea detection (FDA-cleared) make this one of the most medically relevant consumer wearables available.
The Apple Watch Series 11, released September 2025, is Apple's thinnest Watch ever and introduces hypertension detection — a clinically significant health milestone that joins its existing suite of ECG, SpO2, skin temperature, and HRV monitoring. Starting at $399, it's the benchmark for smartwatch health features in 2025–2026.
Series 12 is expected in fall 2026. If you need a watch now and want hypertension + ECG features, the Series 11 is excellent. If you can wait 6 months, you'll either get the new model or a meaningfully discounted Series 11.
The key addition is hypertension detection. The Series 11 is also slightly thinner and includes a new S11 chip. The Series 10 is still a capable watch and may be available at a discount.
It detects hypertension (a pattern of elevated blood pressure readings) rather than measuring exact mmHg values. It is FDA-cleared for this notification feature, not as a blood pressure monitor.
Yes — Apple Watch Series 11 can detect signs of sleep apnea and notifies you if it observes moderate to severe breathing disturbances. The feature requires watchOS 11 and is FDA-cleared in eligible regions.
The Ultra 3 adds a titanium case, dual-frequency GPS, 60h battery, a physical Action button, underwater diving modes, and satellite emergency SOS. The Series 11 covers 95% of use cases for $400 less.