Apple Watch Ultra 2 Review: Built to Last, Built to Explore

It's been over months since Apple unveiled the Apple Watch Ultra 2, its most rugged and feature-packed smartwatch. But how does it hold up after everyday wear and tear? Here's our in-depth review.

Key Takeaways

• The Apple Watch Ultra 2 boasts a rugged design with aerospace-grade titanium casing, customizable action button, and brighter display, ensuring durability for outdoor adventures.
• With all-day battery life and fast charging capabilities, the Ultra 2 provides up to 36 hours of usage under typical conditions and up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode.
• Featuring an always-on Retina display with double-tap gesture for quick adjustments, the Ultra 2 offers excellent readability even in harsh sunlight and low-light conditions.
• Powered by the S9 SiP chip, the Ultra 2 delivers enhanced performance with faster CPU and GPU speeds, enabling features like Double Tap and on-device Siri.
• Packed with precision GPS, water resistance up to 100 meters, advanced health sensors, and safety features like fall detection and emergency SOS, the Ultra 2 is an ideal companion for athletes and adventurers alike.
• The Ultra 2 offers a variety of interchangeable bands and customizable watch faces, allowing users to personalize their smartwatch according to their style and activity level.
• Despite its impressive features, the Ultra 2 exhibits occasional quirks like time warp mode, emoji autocorrect, and random dance breaks, adding a touch of humor to its functionality.
• The Apple Watch Ultra 2 remains a top choice for fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers seeking a rugged and reliable smartwatch, although its hefty price tag and bulkier size may not appeal to casual users.

Apple Watch Ultra 2: Design and Durability

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a remarkable smartwatch that builds upon the success of its predecessor.

Design:

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 retains its more extensive and robust design, setting it apart from other Apple Watches.

Rugged design elements include:

• Aerospace-Grade Titanium Case: The watch features a durable titanium casing, making it more challenging and resilient than the standard Apple Watch. 
• The 49 mm titanium case of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is both lightweight and robust.
• Customizable Orange Action Button: Positioned on the left side, this button allows for personalized shortcuts and quick access to functions.
• Tactile Digital Crown and Side Button: These buttons are optimized for gloved hands and provide a more responsive experience.
• Brighter Display: The Ultra 2 boasts Apple's brightest screen, ensuring excellent visibility even in challenging lighting conditions.
• Depth Gauge: A valuable addition for underwater adventures.
• Eco-Friendly Materials: The recycled materials inside and outside the watch contribute to its eco credentials.
• It's tested to MIL-STD 810H standards, making it durable for outdoor adventures.
• The raised design protects the sapphire crystal from edge impacts.

Durability:

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is designed to withstand harsh conditions:

• Water-Resistant and Swim-Proof: Take it into the wilderness or underwater without worry.

• Water-resistant up to 100 meters, it's ready for swimming and diving.

• 86-Decibel Emergency Siren: An essential safety feature.

• Track Water Activities: Ideal for fitness enthusiasts who love aquatic workouts.

• Battery Life: While there's no extension, it still offers up to 36 hours of usage.

Apple Watch Ultra 2: Battery Life

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 packs a 564mAh battery inside, similar to its predecessor, the original Apple Watch Ultra. Here are the critical details regarding battery life:

All-Day Battery Life:

Under typical usage, the Ultra 2 provides up to 36 hours of everyday use. This includes:

• 180-time checks
• 180 notifications
• 90 minutes of app use

A 60-minute workout with music playback from the watch via Bluetooth.

Low Power Mode:

If you need to extend battery life further, the Ultra 2 can last up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode.

Fast Charging:

• The watch features a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
• It can reach up to 80% charge in about 1 hour.

Whether you're backpacking, triathlon training, or exploring coral reefs, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 won't let you down. It offers:

• Up to 36 hours of everyday use.
• Up to 72 hours with low power settings enabled.
• Up to 17 hours of workout use in Low Power Mode.

Apple Watch Ultra's Display, Double the Fun

The Ultr2's claim to fame is its massive, always-on Retina display. It's the brightest Apple Watch display, making it easily readable even in direct sunlight. The new double-tap gesture is a welcome addition, letting you quickly adjust settings or view additional data without navigating menus.

Always-On Retina Display:

• The Ultra 2 features the brightest Apple display ever.

• The Apple Watch Ultr2's Always-On Retina display reaches an impressive 3,000 nits at its peak, ensuring excellent readability even in harsh sunlight. In low-light conditions, it dims to just one nit.

• In low-light conditions, it automatically dims to just one nit.

• Night Mode activates seamlessly when it's dark.

• A large display allows customization for various activities, and a new watch face provides dynamic info like altitude, depth, or seconds along the edges.

Customizable View:

• The large display allows you to tailor your view for various activities.

• A new watch face provides dynamic information like altitude, depth, or seconds along the outer edges.

• Whether tracking your fitness or exploring the outdoors, the Ultra 2 adapts to your needs.

Action Button:

• The customizable Action button offers physical control over multiple functions.

• Use it to start a workout, mark a Compass Waypoint, or initiate a dive.

• Its potential is as vast as your adventures.

S9 SiP Chip: Powering Up Performance

• The S9 SiP is the powerhouse behind the Apple Watch Ultra 2. It boasts a dual-core CPU with 5.6 billion transistors and a four-core Neural Engine twice as fast as the previous model.

• The S9 SiP makes the Apple Watch Ultra 2 more capable, user-friendly, and faster. Its blend of speed, power, and intelligence keeps Apple at the forefront of wearable technology.

• This chip enables features like Double Tap and on-device Siri, making interactions faster and more seamless.

• With 30% faster GPU performance, it ensures smooth graphics and responsiveness.

Features Galore: A Fitness and Adventure Powerhouse

The Ultra 2 is packed with features for athletes and adventurers. The precision dual-frequency GPS ensures accurate location tracking, even in dense urban environments. New fitness metrics like power and cadence for cycling cater to dedicated athletes.

Beyond fitness, the Ultra 2 shines with features like high-speed water resistance, a recreational dive mode of 40 meters, and a built-in siren for emergencies.

Action Button and Safety Features:

• The customizable Action button gives you quick control over functions like starting a workout, marking a Compass Waypoint, or initiating a dive.

• An essential tool on your wrist includes features like a GPS antenna, dual speakers, a siren, a depth gauge, and a three-microphone array for optimal voice clarity.

• The side button provides access to safety features, including emergency calls and retrieving your Medical ID.

Health Tracking on Another Level

The Ultra 2 is equipped with motion sensors enabling Crash Detection. In a severe car crash, these sensors trigger an alert, prompting the device to check in with the user. If there's no response within a 10-second countdown, the Apple Watch automatically dials emergency services.

Advanced Health Sensors:

• The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is equipped with an array of sensors that monitor your health around the clock.

• Heart Rate Sensor: It tracks your heart rate continuously, alerting you to irregularities.

• Blood Oxygen (SpO2) Monitoring: This feature measures your blood oxygen levels, providing insights into your overall well-being.

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): The ECG app allows you to take an ECG anytime, anywhere, and share the results with your doctor.

Sleep Tracking:

• The Ultra 2 analyzes your sleep patterns, helping you understand your sleep quality.

• It provides data on time spent in different sleep stages, including deep sleep, light sleep, and REM sleep.

• Wake up feeling refreshed with personalized sleep recommendations.

Activity Rings and Workouts:

• The iconic Activity Rings motivate you to move, exercise, and stand throughout the day.

• You can choose from a wide range of workout modes, including running, cycling, swimming, yoga, and more.

• The watch automatically detects your activity and records it accurately.

Fall Detection and Emergency SOS:

• The Apple Watch Ultra 2 can detect falls and initiate an emergency call. It's a safety net on your wrist, especially for seniors or those with health concerns.

Mindfulness and Breathing:

• Practice mindfulness with the Breathe app, which guides you through calming breathing exercises.

• Manage stress and improve overall well-being.

Nutrition and Hydration Tracking:

• Log your meals and track your water intake using third-party apps.

• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet effortlessly.

Customizable Health Metrics:

• Tailor your health dashboard by choosing the metrics that matter most to you.

• Whether it's steps, calories burned, or mindfulness minutes, the Ultra 2 keeps you informed.

Beyond the Basics: Bands and Customization

Apple has introduced a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip in the Apple Watch Ultra 2. This chip enables Precision Finding, aiding in locating a misplaced iPhone through visual, haptic, and audio cues. Enhanced integration with HomePod allows the Ultra 2 to display the Now Playing interface within four meters of a HomePod playing audio.

Interchangeable Bands:

• The Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers a variety of bands to suit your style and activity level.

• Choose from materials like silicone, leather, stainless steel, and nylon.

• Quick-release mechanisms make swapping bands a breeze.

Sport Bands:

• Silicone sports bands are perfect for workouts and casual wear. They're not-resistant, comfortable, and come in vibrant colors.

Leather Bands:

• For a more elegant look, consider leather bands.

• Choose from classic colors like black, brown, or tan.

Stainless Steel Bands:

• Sophisticated and durable stainless steel bands elevate your style. They're ready for both work and special occasions.

Nylon Bands:

• Nylon bands strike a balance between comfort and durability.

• It is ideal for everyday wear and outdoor adventures.

Custom Watch Faces:

• Personalize your Ultra 2 with custom watch faces.

• Add complications like weather, activity rings, or time zones.

Modular Design:

• ThUltra2's modular design allows you to mix and match bands and faces effortlessly.

• Express your individuality by creating unique combinations.

Not Without Its Quirks

Time Warp Mode:

Occasionally, the Ultra 2 enters a mysterious time warp mode where it displays the time in a parallel universe. You might glance at your watch and find it showing" "Tea Ti"e" o" "NaO'Clockck.

Emoji Autocorrect:

The Ultr2's autocorrect feature has a mind of its own. Typ" "running late," and it might transform into" "running llama.

Fitness Challenges with Pets:

The watch occasionally challenges you to beat your pet's step count. It's all fun until your cat becomes a fitness influencer.

Weather Predictions by Mood:

The Ultr2's weather app predicts conditions based on your emotional state. If you're feeling sunny, expect clear skies; if you're grumpy, brace for thunderstorms.

Random Dance Breaks:

The watch surprises you with spontaneous dance breaks. Suddenly, your wrist starts grooving to "Stayin'n' Alive"." Disco fever, anyone?

Inexplicable Haptic Feedback:

Sometimes, the Ultra 2 vibrates for no apparent reason. Is it a secret Morse code message? Or is it just a friendly reminder to hydrate? 

Watch Face Personality Shifts:

Your watch face occasionally changes its expression. One moment, it's stoic; the next, it winks at you. It's like having a digital mood ring.

The Verdict: Still the King of Rugged Smartwatches?

With months, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 remains the ultimate smartwatch for adventurers and athletes. Its impressive battery life, rugged design, and advanced features make it a compelling choice for those who push their limits. However, the hefty price tag and bulky size might deter casual users.

Who Should Buy It?

If you're a fitness enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or need a long-lasting smartwatch that can take a beating, the Ultra 2 is a great option. However, if you prioritize a sleek design or affordability, the Apple Watch Series 9 or even the Apple Watch SE might be better suited for your needs.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a champion for adventure seekers and fitness fanatics. The combination of the Apple Watch Ultra's display's incredible brightness, the extended battery life, and the ever-growing suite of health and fitness features make it a compelling option for those who demand the most from their smartwatch.

While the price tag might raise eyebrows, we've found that iPhone users crave a rugged and reliable companion on their journeys; the Ultra 2 is undeniably one of the best smartwatch for this generation.

FAQ's

Q. What are the key features of the Apple Watch Ultra 2?

A. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 has advanced features, including a long battery life, built-in GPS, blood oxygen sensor, and the ability to buy the Apple watch directly from the watch. Its durable titanium construction and rugged design make it built to last even in extreme conditions.

Q. How does the Apple Watch Ultra 2 differ from the previous models?

A. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is an upgrade over the original Apple Watch Ultra, offering enhanced features like a giant watch face, improved heart rate monitoring, and faster connectivity. The modular Ultra design provides flexibility in customization for users.

Q. What innovative functions does the Apple Watch Ultra 2 offer?

A. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 introduces innovative functions such as an Action button for quick access to critical features, a blood oxygen sensor for monitoring health metrics, and a temperature sensor for tracking environmental conditions. It is also equipped with Siri for voice commands and an SOS feature for emergencies.

Q. Can the Apple Watch Ultra 2 be used for outdoor activities?

A. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is designed for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Its GPS functionality enables accurate route tracking, while the Alpine Loop feature provides guidance for mountain exploration. The watch is water-resistant up to 100m and has a rugged build for durability.