2026 Apple Watch preview: 7 things I expect (and hope) to see next year
Macworld All things considered, 2025 was a good year for the Apple Watch: we got three new models, and I gave two of them strongly positive reviews. (I haven’t tried the Ultra 3 yet, but it’s probably decent too, if a little bulky for my suburban tastes.) It just wasn’t an exciting year. The Series 11, as excellent as it is, features very few changes from last year’s Series 10. And while the Apple Watch SE 3 offers a plethora of valuable upgrades, they’re new to the SE rather than to the whole line. It was a year of sensible consolidation, in other words, rather than headline fireworks. But that could all change in 2026. After more than a decade of samey designs and slow iterative feature creep, is Apple finally ready to announce some big news for its smartwatches? We hope so. In this article, part prediction and part wish list, we outline seven announcements and changes we can expect from the Apple Watch next year. A proper redesign at last The theme of my Apple Watch reviews in 2025–not to mention my small contributions to our year-end awards article–was that the Series 11 is a terrific smartwatch, but the SE 3 is a better purchase. It simply isn’t worth spending an extra $150 on the full-fat model because the budget edition is more than good enough for most people’s needs. Apple loves to maximise its profit margin and is fond of an upsell, so 2026’s mission will be to provide reasons to buy the Series 12. And the most obvious way to do that is to give it a flashy redesign for the first time in the product’s history. Round screen? Unlikely. Yet another button? Can’t see it happening just yet. But other physical changes predicted a few years back for the once-rumored Apple Watch X, which included a thinner case, a larger battery, and a new magnetic band locking mechanism, may finally arrive next year. It might even be made of glass. With the inconvenient rise of the SE threatening Apple’s coffers, the timing couldn’t be better. A better and much brighter screen Those Apple Watch X rumors from 2023 also included a microLED display, which still makes sense and would represent a useful upgrade on the current OLED. microLED means improved color fidelity, better power efficiency, and, going by a concept shown off by Samsung at CES back in February, brightness levels pushing 4,000 nits. For comparison, the Series 11 tops out at 2,000 nits and even the Ultra 3 has a maximum of 3,000. The Ultra 3’s screen is bright enough to be used outdoors. But it could be brighter still.Halyna Kubiv Apple Intelligence Over the past year or so Apple has seemed determined to get its AI platform on every possible device–which is how we ended up with the deeply disappointing iPhone 16e situation. But there are a few exceptions. One is the baseline iPad; another is the entire Apple Watch lineup. As we have reported, it’s extremely likely Apple makes the 12th-gen iPad AI-ready, and while the watch is less of an obvious slam-dunk, it makes a lot of sense as a portable AI assistant. And it would make a useful differentiator for the more expensive models. On-board biometrics I very rarely have to enter my Apple Watch’s passcode, because my iPhone 17 does such a good job as chaperone: looking at its Face ID scanner unlocks the watch, and it remains unlocked as soon as it remains on my wrist. (And as long as I still have a pulse, but let’s not think about that too much.) Apple is very good at these kinds of frictionless multi-device integration. But there are still reasons why a fingerprint scanner would be a welcome upgrade for the Apple Watch in 2026 (most likely built into a side button, but potentially under the screen). Most obviously there are the times when you want to unlock it but your iPhone isn’t nearby; not to mention the long term, in which wearables will need to operate as standalone devices rather than accessories. Being able to give biometric authentication from the watch on a case-by-case basis could also be useful for Apple Pay and other financial uses, as well as health/fitness apps and private messaging, such as notifications from locked chats in WhatsApp. This might all sound like an unlikely wish list item, but internal code suggests Apple is actually considering Touch ID on the Apple Watch. Blood glucose tracking Another Apple Watch generation means another round of speculation about new health sensors. What will we get in 2026? Prick-less blood glucose monitoring has been rumored for some time (we now understand research was underway back in the Steve Jobs era), and given that the project had reached the “proof of concept” phase in 2023, it may finally be ready for the big time next year. This would be a game-changer for watch users with diabetes, as well as providing useful data insights for anyone looking to improve their health and fitness. Right now the SE 3 (left) is making the Series 11 look overpriced.David Price / Foundry A year off for the SE This year, we got new models in all three Apple Watch lines: Series, SE, and Ultra. But this isn’t always the case. There was no SE in 2021 or 2023, and no SE or Ultra in 2024. The only constant is the Series. With this in mind, I think there’s good reason to expect the SE to take a year off in 2026. Right now, the SE 3 is the Apple Watch to go for. But that will all change in fall 2026 if the Series 12 turns up with a bunch of new features (or a new design) while the SE remains stagnant. Apple used to do something similar with the baseline and Air editions of the iPad, which would come out at different times and make each other look less appealing. Custom watch faces I’ll finish up with an operating system upgrade thought up by Macworld contributor Mahmoud Itani: a customisation tool to let you build your own watch face. It always frustrates me when I find a face I like (Flux is a huge favorite of mine) then discover that it doesn’t enable me to use the set of complications I rely on… or in Flux’s case, any complications at all. Being able to mix-and-match visual elements, fonts, and complications from various faces would enable users to build the watch experience they need.

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How Docker can help you run apps on your Mac
Docker is an important tool for developers and for running apps across networks, and it has many uses for the pro and hobbyist alike. Here's how you can get started using the containerization tech on your Mac.Docker DesktopIf you've been checking out our NAS guides, you may have occasionally seen a reference to Docker support. It's something that doesn't usually concern the typical Mac user, but it is gradually becoming a useful tool for more advanced users.There's quite a bit to know about the software, and it's not for everyone. But for those who have a need for it, Docker can be an essential addition to their Mac setup. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Lifetime access to lessons in 41 languages is now only $90 (reg. $299.99)
Macworld TL;DR: Learn up to 41 new languages with lifetime access to Mondly, now only $90. Learning a new language takes time, but it might not have to. Mondly is a new language-learning tool that focuses on speed and fluency, helping you quickly absorb lessons from 41 different languages. Right now, a lifetime subscription is also on sale for only $89.99 (reg. $299.99). Mondly uses short, interactive lessons that feel more like quick conversations than classroom drills. You work through real-life topics like travel, food, family, and work, so the words you learn are ones you can actually use. The app includes 100+ dialogue simulations and an interactive chatbot, and the speech-recognition system listens as you talk and gives instant feedback on your pronunciation. You hear native-speaker audio, repeat phrases, and gradually start to build confidence speaking out loud instead of just tapping through flashcards. The content covers all levels, from complete beginner to more advanced learners, and it is not limited to simple vocab lists. You get vocabulary builders, detailed conjugation tools, and grammar help that stays tied to real sentences, not just rules on a page. There are 2,500+ daily lessons, weekly quizzes, and monthly challenges, so if you like structure, you can follow a routine and track steady progress over time. Mondly works on phones, tablets, PC, and Mac, and your progress syncs automatically, so you can switch devices without losing your place. Right now, it’s only $89.99 to get a Mondly Premium Lifetime Subscription. Mondly Premium: Lifetime Subscription (All Languages)See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

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No Standard iPhone 18 Launch This Year, Reports Suggest
MacRumors: Apple is not expected to release a standard iPhone 18 model this year, according to a growing number of reports that suggest the company is planning a significant change to its long-standing annual iPhone launch cycle. Despite the immense success of the iPhone 17 in 2025, the iPhone 18 is not expected to arrive until the spring of 2027, leaving the iPhone 17 in the lineup as the latest standard model for over 18 months. This would mark the first time Apple skips an entire calendar year without releasing a new generation of its flagship non-Pro iPhone. Read more of this story at Slashdot.

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IDC Estimates Apple Shipped Just 45,000 Vision Pros Last Quarter
Apple's Chinese manufacturing partner Luxshare halted production of the Vision Pro headset at the start of 2025, according to market research firm IDC, after the device shipped 390,000 units during its 2024 launch year. The $3,499 headset has also seen its digital advertising budget cut by more than 95% year to date in the US and UK, according to market intelligence group Sensor Tower. IDC expects Apple to ship just 45,000 new units in the fourth quarter of 2025. Apple launched an upgraded M5 version in October featuring a more powerful chip, extended battery life, and a redesigned headband. The company sells the device directly in 13 countries and did not expand availability in 2025. Read more of this story at Slashdot.

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3 apps to help you with your New Year’s resolutions [Awesome Apps]
It’s the new year, but if you haven’t given up on your New Year’s resolution already, I have three apps that’ll help you through it. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Oliver's best tech in 2025: iPhone Air, earbuds, and an iPhone Fold teaser
As 2025 draws to a close, attention is turning to all the tech to come, but before that, it's time to look back at some of the best tech Oliver Haslam has used throughout this year.There's thin, and then there's THINIt's been a busy year of tech, as always seems to be the case. It's seen new iPhones, refreshed laptops, and more, but it's sometimes important to look beyond Apple, too.The likes of Samsung and Oppo have gone all-in on foldables, and Nintendo has given its hugely popular Switch a new lick of paint with the Switch 2. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Desk tours: Wesley Hilliard's iPad-centric workflows fully replace the Mac mini
Apple erased the last of Wesley's needs for a Mac in his workflow in 2026, so his setup remains focused on the iPad Pro, but there's still room for Apple Vision Pro for select tasks.Wesley's main desk setup with iPad Pro, iPad mini, and Apple Vision ProMy desk setup didn't change much year over year, at least what's directly in front of me. However, the rest of my office evolved, so I'm going to detail each section and how I get work done for AppleInsider.The iPad Pro is still my primary tool for getting work done. I can perform most work from Apple Vision Pro as desired, but it's only from time to time. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Today in Apple history: Apple IIe becomes a high-profit hit
On January 1, 1983, Apple launched the Apple IIe, the third model in the series (and the last before the Macintosh's arrival a year later). (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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The Powerbeats Pro 2 is $50 Off
Amazon has the Powerbeats Pro 2 marked $50 off. The Powerbeats Pro 2 is the most advanced earphones ever made, featuring earhooks for a secure fit, allowing you to use the earbuds during workouts and sports or physical activity without the accessory falling off. The best ANC has been integrated into the earbuds so you […] The post appeared first on iLounge.

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Limited Edition AirTag Will Be Given Away By Apple
The New Year Sale in Japan held annually has been revealed by Apple this week, providing you with Apple Gift Cards worth ¥38,000 with a free AirTag that comes with a limited-edition design for iPhone transactions eligible with the promo. The AirTag has a Daruma engraving. Daruma is a traditional talisman in Japan that is […] The post appeared first on iLounge.

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New Ads Shared By Apple
Apple has begun sharing new ads on social media emphasizing the Apple Watch as a tool for motivation. Owners of the Apple Watch run away from a bar stool, recliner or bed in a series of spots for “quit quitting” where they all give us a peek of the Apple Watch Workout app. Every ad […] The post appeared first on iLounge.

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Other Roomba Vacuums Receive Matter Support
iRobot has integrated support for Matter into more robot vacuums, called Roomba, during the past few weeks. This integration enables Siri Voice commands and the addition to the Home app. Matter integration is accessible for the Combo 10 Max model this year, but the current Roomba 500 Combo, Roomba Max 700 Combo, and Roomba Max […] The post appeared first on iLounge.

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Analysts need Apple Vision Pro to be a flop, whether Apple considers it one or not
A new report on Apple Vision Pro filled with old data suggests the headset is a "rare failure" for Apple, that is, if you consider more than $157 million in revenue in a single quarter a failure.Reports on Apple Vision Pro's success are at odds with realityApple Vision Pro launched in February 2024 with a flashy, if heavy, exterior and exorbitant price. After a year of slow updates, minimal software support, and few native experiences, Apple managed to ship around 500,000 units in the first year.According to a report from The Financial Times, Apple is struggling to make Apple Vision Pro take off, and cuts in production and marketing help signify that. It sources multiple reports, like production cuts in 2024 and an IDC estimate on holiday sales to reach its conclusion. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Copilot Money brings clarity to your finances, now on the web [Sponsored]
Copilot Money is an award-winning app that brings a personal approach to managing your finances. It ties together your entire financial life into a beautifully-designed app that has been recognized by Apple on countless occasions. Plus, Copilot Money is now available on the web so you can access it from anywhere. Copilot Money is exclusively offering 9to5Mac readers an extended two-month free trial with code 9TO5MAC. Plus, you can save 26% on Copilot Money’s annual plan when you subscribe on the web with this link (new users only). more…

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William's best tech in 2025: Mac Studio, iPad Pro, and so much from Elgato
If there's ever a year when I don't spend a lot of money on technology, it had better be 2026 — because I am skint after a Mac Studio, an M5 iPad Pro, and more.M4 Mac Studio and one of my three Elgato Stream Decks on my deskI did not set out to buy either my M4 Mac Studio with 48GB RAM and 2TB SSD, nor my M5 13-inch iPad Pro with 512GB storage. Although I'm not sure who I'm trying to kid there: I wanted both before they even existed. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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From iPhone Fold to a touchscreen Mac, Apple’s 2026 is going to be epic
Macworld When all is said and done, I doubt anyone will cite 2025 as a key year in the history of Apple. The company admitted that it couldn’t deliver on a promise it made back in 2024, and it shipped a bunch of impressive but incremental improvements to its existing hardware devices. The iPhone Air is a fun product, but is hardly setting the world on fire. 2025 was, above all else… a year. On the other hand, 2026 feels like it will be momentous for Apple in numerous areas. After a few years of calm, it feels like the storm is upon us. The beginning of the end The death of Steve Jobs was a dangerous moment for Apple. The company needed to show that it could still thrive without its co-founder and longtime CEO. As a result, it elevated Jony Ive to a position of even greater prominence, giving him control over all Apple design. It also entered a remarkable era of growth and executive stability, which soothed any questions Wall Street might have had. But Apple is now stocked with long-term senior managers who have made enormous amounts of money in Apple’s rise to all-time highs, and many of them are nearing retirement age. Things remained relatively static until 2025, when a few key executives began to cycle out. Those departures weren’t the end of the story, they were the start of it. Next year will see the beginning of the exit of the old guard and the debut of a bunch of new faces (most of whom have actually been working in obscurity at Apple for a decade or two). Apple Tim Cook won’t step down in 2026, but the preparation for his successor will be in the works.Apple It all starts with Tim Cook. Cook just turned 65, and we live in an era where that’s hardly retirement age. Still, it’s hard to imagine that Cook will want to stay at Apple for a long time. Many accounts suggest that the company has stepped up its succession planning, and I would expect that there’s nobody more in favor of that than Cook. Consider: Cook got the job of Apple CEO thrust upon him due to Jobs’s illness, and never really got to use Jobs as a sounding board after he became CEO. I don’t think Cook wants to do that to his successor if he can help it. So while I’m not outright predicting that Cook will step away from his job as CEO, I do think he’ll begin the public process of transitioning to a new role. I fully expect that Cook will follow in Jobs’s footsteps to become the chairman of the Apple board, and then, at a future date, he’ll resign as CEO and appoint his successor. The result: Cook gets to provide extended oversight and guidance that Jobs sadly wasn’t able to provide to him. As chairman, Cook can also focus on international politics and trade, giving the new CEO time to settle into the business of keeping Apple operating smoothly. It’s the careful and conservative move, which fits Cook perfectly. We’ve already seen the start of it, but with Cook cranking up the engines of succession, I expect many other Apple executives to begin their own exit planning. They may not all leave–Phil Schiller’s continued presence at Apple suggests that it’s very hard to say goodbye–but I expect many of them to shift into new roles and let trusted lieutenants take on more prominent titles and responsibilities. In five years at the most, Apple will be run by people who were not key players in the Steve Jobs era. Time marches on. The Mac Pro was last updated in 2023. That was likely the very last update.Foundry The Mac: Expect the unexpected After a few years of continuity, I expect some big changes when it comes to the Mac. Rumor has it that we might see the very first touchscreen Macs this coming fall, with the debut of the M6 MacBook Pro. I think that’ll happen (though they may be delayed until early 2027), but I don’t expect major interface changes in macOS. I can’t imagine Apple will expect a Mac touchscreen to be anything but an additional, secondary input device–for quick taps and scrolls, not for detail work. You can do that without a revamp of the Mac interface. I’m also willing to bet that something unexpected will happen when it comes to pro-level Macs. The Mac Pro has never really made sense in the Apple Silicon era, when the Mac Studio has taken the crown as the high-end Mac of the moment. My gut feeling is that the Mac Pro is going to be discontinued. It can’t soldier on as it is, so it’s either going to get an update (which would also be surprising!) or it’s going to reach the end. For several years, there’s been a rumor that Apple is planning on releasing its lowest-priced Mac laptop ever, one based on an iPhone-level chip. I think that will finally happen this year, and while it won’t really compete with Chromebooks, it will give Apple access to customers that it’s never been able to reach before. I’d like to believe that new MacBook will cost $599, but even if it’s $699, it’ll be a lot cheaper than the MacBook Air, which retails for $999. And discounts will push it cheaper. That price, for M1-level performance? Seems like a steal. Siri won’t be completely updated in 2026, but it’ll show singns of true progress.Foundry | Alex Walker-Todd The iPhone: Now it gets interesting After whiffing on the idea that Apple would get its AI story straight in 2025, I’m reluctant to predict that it’ll sort out Apple Intelligence and Siri in 2026. But I do think it will have a better year than it did in 2025, and that Siri and Apple Intelligence will end the year more functional and useful than they entered it. I doubt any new-and-improved Siri will be as good as we dream it might be, but I think it’ll be appreciably better than it is today. (And the arrival of a better Siri will unlock Apple’s ability to ship new smart home products, which the company has been itching to do for at least a year.) I don’t expect Liquid Glass to be rolled back under Apple’s new head of software design. That ship has sailed. But I do think we will see Apple continue to polish Liquid Glass, addressing design deficiencies and offering more flexibility for users who feel that it harms usability and legibility. But the big news of the year will be the release of Apple’s first folding phone, which will set a record for the price of a new iPhone–I’m predicting at least $1,999–and will rapidly become the best-selling folding phone of all time. But despite that, it will be only a tiny part of Apple’s overall iPhone sales, and the more standard iPhone Pro models will sell much better. As for the standard iPhone models, I do believe the reports that Apple is going to split its iPhone releases in two, and that the standard iPhone 18 won’t debut until 2027. In 2025, Apple released five different brand-new iPhone models, and there are likely six models in the works for the next product cycle. They don’t all need to ship during the middle of September–and so they won’t. Apple will announce the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone 18 Fold in September, and advertise them everywhere, and the lower-priced models will wait for the spring. Between a folding iPhone, a touchscreen Mac, and some big changes in the highest ranks of Apple management, 2026 is shaping up to be a memorable year. And hey, if they finally make Siri a bit better, won’t that be a nice cherry on top?

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Best Apple Watch 2026: Which model is best for you
Macworld Which Apple Watch is best for you? Choosing the best Apple Watch in 2026 depends on how you’ll use it day to day. If you want an all-around everyday smartwatch with the latest features, the Apple Watch Series 11 is the best pick for most people. If you’re into extreme sports or outdoor adventures, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 offers rugged performance and extra battery life. For budget-conscious buyers who still want solid performance and core health tracking, the Apple Watch SE 3 delivers excellent value. There are three new Apple Watches: the Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch SE 3. The newest Apple Watch models feature upgrades in processing power, connectivity, and health monitoring capabilities, alongside design refinements. Notable enhancements include the S10 chip, 5G connectivity, battery life improvements for the Series 11 and Ultra 3, and an always-on display for the Apple Watch SE. In this guide, we will help you decide which Apple Watch is best for you. We’ll compare the features, specs and price as well as offer advice on choosing cases, colors, and straps in our Apple Watch comparison chart so you can be confident you are choosing the right Apple Watch.  Best Apple Watch Right now, Apple sells three different Apple Watches, although there are different combinations of case and wristband that can make it seem like a bit of a minefield. The newest Apple Watches are the Apple Watch Series 11, the Apple Watch Ultra 3, and the Apple Watch SE 2, so we are primarily focused on those here, although you may still be able to buy one of the older watches at a discount if you shop around (take a look at the Best Apple Watch Deals for the best prices.) Choosing the best Apple Watch for you depends on your needs. The three Apple Watches have a lot of things in common, but they also have some significant differences. The Apple Watch Ultra 3, is best for those who are into extreme sports, the Apple Watch SE 3 is for anyone who wants a budget-friendly Apple Watch, and the Series 11 is for the rest of us. For help understanding what the differences between the Apple Watches are and whether you really need to spend the extra money to get them, read on. Apple Watch Series 11 – Best Apple Watch for most people Pros More scratch-resistant 24 hour battery 15 minute change for 8 hours of battery life Cons Same S10 chip as the Series 10 Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $299.99 View Deal $399 View Deal $399 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket 2024’s Series 10 brought a larger display and thinner design, and at a quick glance, 2025’s Apple Watch Series 11 is much the same. But there are differences: the new display is more scratch-resistant than 2024’s model thanks to the upgraded Ion-X glass that comes with the aluminium case which Apple says is 2x more scratch-resistant than the Series 10. The even tougher titanium version of the Apple Watch 11 offers the same tough sapphire crystal display used for the Ultra 3. The Series 11 is available in Jet Black, Silver, Rose Gold, Space Gray in the standard aluminium body, or Natural, Gold, and Slate titanium versions. The Space Gray option is new for 2025. The big news of the 2025 models is the inclusion of blood pressure monitoring. The hypertension detection feature will be available for the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3. But it’s not only those models: you can also record the data on the Apple Watch Series 9 and 10 and the Ultra 2. Also available on the Apple Watch Series 11, and all Apple Watches from Series 9 forwards is Live Listen transcription and Live Translation which will automatically transcribe phone calls and messages on your Apple Watch screen in real time. Sleep Score is another new feature that isn’t unique to the 2025 models: it runs on Series 6 and newer models running watchOS 26. New features that the older Apple Watches don’t get include 5G cellular on the cellular models. There is improved battery life of 24 hours, up from 18 hours, and fast charging is faster: charge up to 80% in 30 minutes and a 15 minute change will get you up to 8 hours battery life. The main disappointment is that the Apple Watch 11 uses the same S10 processor in the Series 10. Prices start at $399/£369 for the smaller model – that’s a reduction in the U.K. price compared to the Apple Watch Series 10. Apple Watch Series 11 starts at $399/£369 for 42mm model. The Apple Watch Series 10 was from $399/£399 for 42mm model, so that’s a price drop in the U.K. Who should buy the Apple Watch 11? While it shares the S10 processor with the Series 10, the enhanced durability and improved battery life are beneficial – and, if battery life is important to you, crucial. For those upgrading from an older Apple Watch, the Series 11 is a good option. If you own a Series 10, or even a Series 9, it’s probably not worth upgrading because you can already take advantage of most of the new features. Apple Watch 11 further considerations: If you can find an offer on an Apple Watch Series 10 then you can save money knowing you are getting a practically identical Apple Watch. We would tend to advice against spending more to get the cellular model as we don’t think it’s necessary – but it may be something you would benefit from. Read our full Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm) review Apple Watch Ultra 3 – Best Apple Watch for extreme sports and runners Pros Screen visibility improvements 42 hours battery life Charge up to 80% in 45 minutes Cons Big and bulky Price When Reviewed: $799 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $779.99 View Deal $799 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Apple’s Ultra series are Apple Watches designed for adventurers and power users. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 comes two years after the Ultra 2 launched. There’s a slightly larger display due to thinner bezels, and the case is slightly thinner too (12mm compared to the Ultra 2’s 14.4mm), but it doesn’t look massively different to the Apple Watch Ultra 2. It comes in the same natural and black titanium options. There are some differences though. The tough sapphire crystal display means improved durability. The screen is better thanks to a LTPO3 wide-angle OLED – so you’ll be able to see notifications from any angle in bright sunlight. Other changes include the S10 chip (up from the S9 in the Ultra 2), 5G cellular and satellite connectivity. The 42 hours of battery life, compared to 36 on the Ultra 2, and 24 for the Series 11, is particularly impressive. Fast charging is faster – you can charge up to 80% in 45 minutes, rather than an hour. A 15 minute change will get you up to 12 hours. The high blood pressure detection feature may be enticing, but it is also available on the Apple Watch 11, Apple Watch 10 and even the 9. As are the other features like Live Listen transcription, Live Translation, and Sleep Score. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 starts from $799/£749, that’s a discount for U.K. shoppers compared to the Apple Watch Ultra 2 which started from $799/£799. Who should buy the Apple Watch Ultra 3? If you are the adventurous type, taking part in activities like camping, hiking, diving, and anything else classed as extreme sports, the Apple Watch Ultra is the watch for you. With it’s satellite feature, the Ultra 3 will be a particular benefit for anyone who goes off the grid and outside of cellular coverage. It’s bigger and bulkier, and it costs more than the Series 11, but if you need a smart watch with a rugged design suited to extreme environments, the Ultra is the one to get. Apple Watch Ultra 3 further considerations: Features offered by the Ultra models that are missing from the Series 11 include Emergency SOS via satellite, a Siren (to use in emergencies), water resistance to 100m (rather than 50m), and a 40m depth gauge (up from 6m) suitability for scuba, high‑speed water sports, a 3,000 nits display (compared to 2,000) and an expanded operating range for the Always-on altimeter from –500m to 9,000ml. If you need any of those features then the Ultra is for you. Read our full Apple Watch Ultra 3 review Apple Watch SE 3 – Best budget Apple Watch Pros Always-on display Temperature sensing Wrist flick and double tap gestures Media playback 64GB storage Cons Silver option no longer available Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $194 View Deal $219 View Deal $219.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Apple’s budget watch was last updated in 2022, now, three years later the Apple Watch SE 3 is here. The longer gaps do mean the improvements are a bit more pertinent than the yearly Apple Watch Series upgrades: a jump from S8 to S10 chip is significant – even more so as that’s the same S10 processor as the Apple Watch 11 (and 10) and Apple Watch Ultra use. Visibly it’s not changed, it’s still available in Starlight and Moonlight. If you are a fan of Silver that color option is no longer available, which seems an odd choice for anyone wanting to match a metal bracelet.  The biggest news is probably the fact that it gains an Always-on display for the first time, with 2 nits minimum brightness. That display also uses 4x more crack-resistant Ion-X glass than the previous generation. Other features finally on the SE include: Temperature sensing, the wrist flick and double tap gestures, on-device Siri, the ability to play back media via its own speaker, and 64GB storage (up from 32GB. It also gets sleep apnoea notifications. The SE 3 still lacks the sensors for the ECG and Blood Oxygen features of the other watches. Plus battery life is 18 hour, which while decent is behind the Series 11 (24 hors) and the Ultra 3 (42 hours.) Who should buy the Apple Watch SE 3? The Apple Watch SE 3 is the Apple Watch for the budget-conscious, with a staring price of $249/£219. If you don’t require the advanced, extra sensors found in more expensive Apple Watches it could suit you. Apple Watch SE 3 further considerations: Apple has also marketed the SE 3 specifically for children. The cellular version of the Apple Watch SE allows parents to locate them using Find My, and enables them to send or receive texts and calls, while also providing parental control over app access and notifications. It’s also a good choice for the elderly thanks to features like Fall Detection and it can monitor heart rate, though it can’t take an ECG.   Read our full Apple Watch SE 3 (40mm) review Apple Watch comparison chart: Apple Watches specs compared Apple Watch SE 3Apple Watch Series 11Apple Watch Ultra 3Price from$249/£219$399/£369$799/£749Screen size44mm or 40mm46mm or 42mm49mmDisplay 1,000 nits2,000 nits3,000 nitsWeight from40mm from 26.3g / 44mm from 32.9g42mm from 29.7g / 46mm from 36.9g61.6 gMaterials AluminiumAluminium or TitaniumTitaniumColorsMidnight, StarlightAluminium: Silver, Rose Gold, Jet Black, Space Gray Titanium: Slate, Natural, GoldNatural or BlackProcessorS10S10S10Battery lifeUp to 18 hoursUp to 24 hours, Faster charging 0-80% in 30 minsUp to 42 hours, Fast charging 0-80% in 45 minutesExtra featuresAlways-on display, double tap gesture, Faster on-device Siri,Always-on display, double tap gesture, Faster on-device Siri, Precision Finding for iPhone, Depth gauge to 6m and water temperature sensor, speakers and media playback, microphone with voice isolationAlways-on display, double tap gesture, Faster on-device Siri, Precision Finding for iPhone, Customisable Action button, Depth gauge to 40m and water temperature sensor, scuba to 40m, Dual speakers, media playback and three-mic array with beamformingHealth features Heart rate, Heart rhythm, sensing, Cycle Tracking with ovulation estimates, Sleep stages, Sleep Score, Sleep apnoea notificationsBlood Oxygen, ECG, Heart rate, Heart rhythm, Hypertension notifications, Temperature sensing, Cycle Tracking with ovulation estimates, Sleep stages, Sleep Score, Sleep apnoea notificationsBlood Oxygen, ECG, Heart rate, Heart rhythm, Hypertension notifications, Temperature sensing, Cycle Tracking with ovulation estimates, Sleep stages, Sleep Score, Sleep apnoea notificationsSafety features Emergency SOS, Fall Detection and Crash DetectionEmergency SOS, Fall Detection and Crash DetectionEmergency SOS, Emergency SOS via Satellite, Fall Detection and Crash Detection, SirenWater features 50 meter water resistance. Suitable for swimming and snorking.50 meter water resistance, depth gauge to 6 meters, water temperature sensor. Suitable for swimming and snorking.100 meter water resistance, depth gauge to 6 meters, dive to 40m, water temperature sensor. Suitable for swimming and snorking, scuba, high‑speed water sports.Connectivity L1 GPS, 5G cellular optionL1 GPS, 5G cellular option, Second-generation Ultra Wideband chipPrecision dual-frequency 5G GPS (L1 and L5 GPS), cellular only, Second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, Satellite connectivity Should I buy one of the older Apple Watches? Apple stops selling the previous generation of Apple Watch models as soon as new models are launched, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to buy them. Apple itself sells older Apple Watches in its refurbished store, and you can often get a good deal with the added bonus that Apple will guarantee the Apple Watch. It’s not only Apple that still sells older Apple Watch models: you can often get a cut price deal on older Apple Watch. See our round up of the Best Apple Watch deals. Here’s our views on whether you should buy one of the older Apple Watches if you find a good deal: Apple Watch Series 10 (42mm) Read our review Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: $249 at Walmart | $329 at Best Buy | $355.49 at Best Buy US The Series 10 was a modest set of improvements over the Apple Watch Series 9. It was a tiny bit thinner and larger, just enough to make the display fractionally bigger (42mm up from 41mm or 46mm up from 45mm) and slightly easier to read (with wider viewing angles, too). Also new for the Series 10 was a water temperature sensor and the ability to sense depth up to 6 meters. The Series 10 has the same processor as the Series 11, so if you see a deal you may think it’s worth a look. The main thing you will be missing out on is the longer battery life: Battery life for the Series 10 was rated at 18 hours, like the Series 9. The Series 10 has a 24 hour battery life – which is a massive upgrade. Apple Watch Ultra 2 Read our review Price When Reviewed: $799 (base) Best Prices Today: $649.99 at Best Buy US | $699 at Amazon | $799 at Apple The second generation of Apple Watch Ultra launched in 2023, there was a minor update in 2024. The processor in the 2023 Ultra 2 was the S9. The new Ultra 3 model gets the S10. Other changes include much better battery life: 42 hours compared to 36 hours. Faster charging, and a (very) slightly larger display. It’s also a little slimmer, which helps with some of the bulk of this Apple Watch category. With those updates, should you buy the Apple Watch Ultra 2? Any generation of the Apple Watch Ultra goes beyond the standard Apple Watch, with features for divers (depth gauge, water temperature sensor, water resistance to 100 meters) and features for hikers such as precision dual-frequency GPS. If you see a good deal, and you are an athlete or adventurer in need of those kinds of features, it would be a good purchase. Apple Watch SE (2nd generation, 40mm) Read our review Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: $129 at Walmart | $199.99 at Best Buy US | $249.99 at Target This version of the Apple Watch SE arrived in 2022 and was the second generation SE, with the first being introduced in 2020. There’s a heart sensor, Compared to the Apple Watch SE 3, this version of the SE lacks body temperature sensor for cycle monitoring, Temperature sensing, the wrist flick and double tap gestures, on-device Siri, the ability to play back media via its own speaker, and only has 32GB storage, rather than 64GB. As with the SE 3, you don’t get Blood Oxygen monitoring or the ability to perform an ECG. Battery life is the same 18 hours as the Apple Watch SE 3, but the Low Power Mode in the new Watch means you can get up to 32 hours. What can an Apple Watch do? Practically every Apple Watch ever made has offered the same set of basic functions. Apple Watch can be used in conjunction with an iPhone (or separately if the user has a cellular contract) to:  Make or take phone calls  Read and send text messages Read and send emails Listen to music or podcasts Receive notifications relating to iPhone and Apple Watch apps  Use apps, such as Maps for navigation, a calculator or a compass Track fitness, including steps and calories burned Monitor your health, including heart rate Track temperature for ovulation estimates Enable an Emergency SOS alert Display hypertension notifications (Series 9, 10, 11, Ultra 2 & 3) Detect a fall or car crash Tell the time on an always-on display (older Apple Watches don’t do this) Act as a flashlight (or torch)  Pay via Apple Pay  Track your sleep, notify of sleep apnoea, and provide a Sleep score The Apple Watch doesn’t need an iPhone to work, but it helps, and it is needed for initial setup. See: Does an Apple Watch work without an iPhone? Should I buy a cellular Apple Watch? There’s another choice to be made. Do you need an Apple Watch with cellular connectivity or not?  We examine GPS versus cellular in a separate article, read: Should I buy a cellular Apple Watch. Also read: You probably don’t need an LTE Apple Watch. If you choose a cellular version of the Apple Watch you’ll be able to leave your iPhone at home and use your Watch for making calls, receiving texts, and streaming music. Apple Watch can also support Family Setup if you are looking for a Watch for someone who doesn’t have an iPhone. Which Apple Watch to buy  As you can see from the above, it’s not a simple case of being able to say a particular Apple Watch is the winner. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 clearly has the best features if you are off up a mountain, diving in the ocean, or heading out for a marathon. If that sounds like you, the Ultra is the way to go. But it’s big, perhaps too big, and it has a big price attached to it.  The Apple Watch Series 11 is the best choice for most users that don’t have specific need of the rugged outdoor qualities of the Ultra. This generation improves durability and improves battery life – both good reasons to buy one. The Apple Watch SE 3 is Apple’s cheapest Apple Watch, starting at $249/£219, which will be a big point in its favor. Along with a lower price, the SE also offers features such heart rate monitoring, fall detection, Car Crash detection, emergency SEOs, and some other features that may give you peace of mind. But it lacks some of the health-related features that people are looking for, such as the ability to take an ECG, check blood oxygen readings and give hypertension notifications.

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Make learning a new language the resolution you actually keep with this exclusive Babbel offer
Macworld TL;DR: Start the new year off right with a lifetime of Babbel on sale for $159 with code LEARN until 11:59pm Pacific on January 11 — 14 languages, thousands of lessons, and zero monthly fees. Unlimited Babbel access for life across all 14 languages (Spanish, French, German, Italian, and more) Quick lessons designed by expert linguists to build real-world conversation skills quickly Speech-recognition technology to help with pronunciation that sounds local, not tourist-y Learn anywhere on desktop or mobile with synced progress and downloadable lessons for offline practice Personalized review sessions to help new vocabulary stick long-term instead of disappearing overnight Courses covering practical everyday topics like dining, directions, shopping, and meeting new people Multiple skill levels so you can start from basics or jump in at intermediate or advanced One-time payment — no renewals, no subscriptions, no surprise charges later Grab Babbel’s lifetime subscription for $159 with promo code LEARN through January 11 (MSRP $646.20) — and start speaking a new language with confidence in 2026. Babbel Language Learning: Lifetime Subscription (All Languages)See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

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Apple's iPad mini 7 is on sale for $399 as Amazon launches 2026 deals
Amazon is ringing in the New Year with an iPad mini 7 deal that takes $100 off multiple colors and storage capacities.Save $100 on Apple's iPad mini 7 on New Year's Day - Image credit: AppleAmazon is kicking off 2026 with a $100 discount on Apple's iPad mini 7, with all four color options eligible for the discount. This is the latest model, which comes in your choice of a 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB storage capacity.Save $100 on iPad mini 7 Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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