New Apple Watch model released

Apple has introduced the Apple Watch Series 12, which is set to enter the market in 2026. The Series 12 retains the design of its predecessors but includes a new chip and a new heart rate monitor, aiming to offer more accurate measurements and extended battery life.

New models and features

The Apple Watch Series 12 is available in two sizes (42 and 46 mm), each offered in GPS and GPS + Cellular versions, compatible with eSIM. New features include the integration of a new optical heart rate monitor and the inclusion of a new S11 chip, promising more accurate measurements and increased battery life.

Physical dimensions and weight

The 42 mm version of the Series 12 measures 43 x 37 x 9.7 mm, which is 1 mm more than the equivalent model in Series 11. The new model is slightly heavier, with a casing weight of 31.4 g (GPS + Cellular). The titanium finish version weighs 36.5 g (34.6 g for the Series 11), and the ceramic version, new, weighs slightly more than 40 g.

Display specifications

The watch features an OLED screen (LTPO 3) of 1.77 inches, rectangular, with a resolution of 374 x 446 pixels (329 ppp) and displaying up to 2000 cd/m². This screen is less than the Watch Ultra 4 (3000 cd/m²), but largely sufficient for comfortable use outdoors.

Screen protection and materials

The OLED screen is protected from shocks and scratches, with protection varying depending on the version chosen. To get the sapphire glass similar to that of the Watch Ultra 4, users must opt for the titanium or ceramic models. The aluminum model has a Ceramic Shield 2 protection, used on smartphone screens and introduced on the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro.

Communication and connectivity

The watch features a speaker + microphone duo allowing both to call on the Siri assistant and to comfortably make calls on the wrist. It is possible to use an eSIM (Cellular model) to be independent of the smartphone during sports outings. However, satellite connectivity is not included by default on the watch, as it is the case on the Ultra 4; it depends on the services offered by the user's mobile operator.

Water and dust resistance

The casing is certified IP6X, which guarantees its resistance to dust, and resists water up to 5 ATM. It is possible to wear it for swimming, but the Series 12 is not designed to withstand pressure changes. It is not made for pool bombs, nor for diving, and it is devoid of a depth gauge.

Compatibility and apps

Exclusively compatible with iPhones, the Apple Watch Series 12 requires the installation of three apps: Watch, Health, and Fitness. The Watch app is dedicated to the configuration of the watch, the installation of applications, and the configuration of your Wallet. The Health app is reserved for measurements related to well-being, and Fitness is dedicated to sports measurements.

User interface and controls

The operation of the watch is simplified with touch commands supplemented by two buttons located on the right side of the Series 12. The rotating crown facilitates navigation in apps and widgets, returning to the list of apps with a press and to the home screen with another press. A long press calls up the voice assistant Siri.

Health and fitness features

The Apple Watch Series 12 aims to provide the best in heart health tracking, with a new optical heart rate monitor promising formidable accuracy. However, even when tightening the strap as much as possible, some signal losses were encountered. During usual endurance sessions, the watch showed good overall accuracy, with an average deviation from a reference chest strap of 0.59 bpm.

Battery life and charging

Apple limits the announced autonomy to 24 hours in normal use and 38 hours in power saving mode. However, continuous use without activating the Always-on mode has shown that the watch can last more than two days without recharging. Charging takes just over 1 hour to charge the wearable to 100%.

Comparison with other models

The Apple Watch Series 12 is in the pure tradition of its lineage, offering a plethora of health measurements and demonstrating good sports aptitudes. It offers increased endurance, allowing for two days of use, which is a small revolution in its range. However, such a score remains modest compared to what the competition offers.