Apple Watch Ultra 4 vs Series 12: Gap Narrows
Two new reviews suggest Apple's cheaper Series 12 now rivals the pricier Ultra 4 for most buyers, a shift that could reshape upgrade decisions.
WIRED's reviews of the Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Series 12 land on a similar conclusion: Apple's latest watches are easier to use and better at health tracking than before. Both reviews highlight faster charging and a cleaner interface as meaningful improvements over earlier models.
The key difference is positioning. The Ultra 4 review stresses that the Series 12 now comes close enough for most people, making the Ultra's extra ruggedness and longer battery life a niche selling point. The Series 12 review, meanwhile, focuses on how the watch feels in daily life after a week of constant wear, calling it noticeably easier to live with.
Taken together, the reviews suggest Apple's lineup is converging: the premium Ultra still has clear advantages, but the mainstream model may be sufficient for the typical buyer. That could matter for shoppers deciding whether the higher price of the Ultra is justified, though neither review specifies prices or sales figures.
Sources · 2
More in Business
Googlebook Laptops Launch at $899, Betting on Android-Gemini Integration
Google and five hardware partners are shipping a new line of AI-centric laptops that tie Gemini and Android phones into the desktop experience, starting at $899.
iPhone 18 Pro Camera Leans on Variable Aperture as Key Upgrade
A new variable aperture main lens gives the iPhone 18 Pro more control over low light and depth of field.
Amazon Blocks Meta's Muse AI Agent from Shopping on Its Site
Amazon has barred Meta's Muse AI from making purchases, citing policy violations and safety concerns.
Paramount Settles State Lawsuit, Clearing Path for Warner Bros. Merger
A settlement with California and 11 other states removes a major obstacle to the proposed $110 billion media merger, though critics remain opposed.