Apple Watch Ultra 4 could bring the biggest redesign yet, along with major sensor upgrades
Apple’s next premium smartwatch may be preparing for its most important update since the Ultra line first arrived. The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is rumored to receive a full design refresh, marking the first major visual overhaul in the history of Apple’s rugged flagship wearable.
Since the original Apple Watch Ultra launched in September 2022, Apple has largely kept the same bold design language: a large titanium case, flat display, raised edges, an Action button, and a focus on outdoor, fitness, and endurance users. While later models improved performance and features, the overall look remained familiar. That could change with the Apple Watch Ultra 4.
According to recent supply chain reports, Apple is planning a complete redesign for the next-generation Apple Watch Ultra. Exact design details have not yet been revealed, but the changes are said to be significant enough that Apple expects a major boost in demand. Reports suggest the refreshed model could help increase sales by around 20 to 30 percent compared with the previous generation.
A new look would make sense for Apple’s high-end smartwatch lineup. The Apple Watch Ultra is positioned as the most advanced wearable in Apple’s catalog, aimed at athletes, hikers, divers, runners, and users who want longer battery life and a tougher build. After several years with a similar appearance, a redesigned Apple Watch Ultra 4 could give existing users a stronger reason to upgrade.
The redesign may not be the only major improvement. The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is also rumored to bring notable sensor upgrades. Apple is reportedly working on increasing the number of sensors inside the device, possibly doubling the sensor count compared with current models. This could lead to more accurate health tracking, improved readings during workouts, and better overall performance for features such as heart rate monitoring and blood oxygen tracking.
Improved energy efficiency is also expected to be part of the upgrade. If Apple manages to make the sensors more power-efficient, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 could offer better battery life or more reliable tracking without draining power as quickly. Battery performance has always been one of the Ultra lineup’s biggest selling points, so any improvement in this area would be especially welcome.
It remains unclear whether Apple will add entirely new health features or simply improve the accuracy of existing ones. One possibility is that the company will use additional photodiodes to collect health data more reliably. This could help the watch perform better in difficult conditions, such as during intense exercise, when the watch is not sitting perfectly on the wrist, or when measuring data over longer periods.
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 may also improve high blood pressure alerts. Apple introduced blood pressure-related notifications through watchOS 26 for supported Apple Watch models, but the feature is designed to detect possible signs of hypertension rather than provide a traditional blood pressure reading. With upgraded sensors, the next Ultra model could potentially deliver more accurate alerts and better long-term health insights.
However, users should not expect full medical-grade blood pressure measurement from the Apple Watch Ultra 4 just yet. A true blood pressure monitoring system, similar to devices that use cuff-style technology, is not expected for this year’s model. Blood glucose monitoring is also unlikely to arrive with this generation, even though Apple has reportedly been researching the technology for years.
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 could still be one of Apple’s most exciting wearable launches in recent memory. A redesigned body, upgraded sensors, improved efficiency, and more accurate health alerts would make it a meaningful step forward for the Ultra series.
If the rumors are accurate, Apple’s next flagship smartwatch may appeal not only to athletes and outdoor adventurers but also to everyday users looking for the most advanced Apple Watch experience available. With stronger health tracking and a fresh design, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 could become one of the most anticipated smartwatches of its generation.
