Apple Watch Ultra 3 — Satellite comms, specs & hands-on notes
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 introduces built-in satellite communications alongside major hardware and software upgrades: the new S10 chip, a larger LTPO3 wide-angle OLED display, up to 42 hours of battery life, 5G connectivity, and new health features including hypertension notifications and Sleep Score. Apple includes two years of satellite service for safety features with purchase.
Quick specs
- Chip: S10
- Display: 49mm case, larger LTPO3 wide-angle OLED, thinner bezels
- Battery: Up to 42 hours (72 hours in Low Power Mode)
- Connectivity: 5G, precision GPS, built-in satellite communications
- Health: Hypertension notifications, Sleep Score, ECG, SpO2, etc.
Satellite communications — what it does
The Ultra 3 supports Emergency SOS via satellite (included), plus Messages and Find My via satellite in supported regions. Emergency use guides you to get a clear view of the sky, asks multiple-choice questions to describe your situation, and sends a report when a connection is established. Messages/Find My via satellite generally require a paid cellular plan for standard messaging, while Emergency SOS is covered by the included service.
Differences & notes
- Apple includes 2 years of satellite service with the Ultra 3 for safety features.
- Messages via satellite and continuous location sharing may require a paid cellular plan.
- Satellite support at launch is more broadly available internationally for Emergency SOS; Messages via satellite is limited to specific countries (check Apple for current coverage).
- Compared with Pixel Watch 4, Apple’s approach mirrors the iPhone satellite flow; Google’s Pixel Watch 4 uses NB-NTN via Skylo and currently limits availability.
Hands-on impressions
Connecting to a satellite on the Ultra 3 is similar to iPhone’s satellite workflow: add Satellite to Control Center or as a complication, then use it to send messages, share location, or contact emergency services. In a demo, establishing a satellite link and sending an Emergency SOS report took about 90 seconds total (connection can occasionally drop and require re-establishing). The larger 49mm display makes the UI easier to read during the process.
Availability & where to buy
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is available starting Sep 19. Official Apple details and full specs: Apple Watch Ultra 3 — official page.
Buy or check prices on Amazon (US search link / affiliate): Apple Watch Ultra 3 on Amazon (search).
Would you use satellite comms on your wrist?
Tell us in the comments: would you rely on satellite texts or Emergency SOS from a watch on your next trip? Have you used similar features on other devices?
Sources: Apple product pages and official Apple newsroom.