Apple Watch Ultra 3: Better wireless, hopefully better blood pressure monitoring

Apple Watch Ultra 3: Better wireless, hopefully better blood pressure monitoring

  • 25.03.2025 21:38
  • heise.de
  • Keywords: Apple, Market Growth

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to launch this fall with improved wireless capabilities, including 5G via the RedCap subset for wearables, satellite text messaging, and potential enhancements in health monitoring like blood pressure tracking.

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Estimated market influence

Apple

Apple

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Analyst rating: Buy

Apple's product policy for the Apple Watch was somewhat confusing last autumn: while the standard model, the , received an adequate hardware update including an enlarged screen. The Ultra, the actual top model, only had an additional color as the only new feature and otherwise remained at the level of the . With the Ultra 3, which is now expected in September 2025, a series of hardware innovations are finally to come.

MediaTek

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Analyst rating: N/A

The built-in radio chip is said to come from MediaTek in Taiwan; Apple's (or one of its successors) does not (yet) fit into the Watch.

Context

Analysis of Apple Watch Ultra 3: Business Insights and Market Implications

Hardware Updates

  • 5G Support: The Ultra 3 will introduce RedCap 5G technology, a low-power subset of 5G designed for wearables and IoT devices.
  • Satellite Messaging: Will support text message transmission via satellite, initially free but with potential future subscription fees.
  • Blood Pressure Monitoring: Apple is working on integrating blood pressure monitoring, though technical challenges remain.

Market Implications

  • Connectivity Upgrade: The shift to 5G (via RedCap) could enhance wireless capabilities for wearables, potentially improving performance and functionality. However, the limited scope of RedCap may not significantly boost data throughput or latency improvements.
  • Satellite Feature: This adds value for users in remote areas but may require significant marketing to justify its utility and potential subscription costs.

Competitive Dynamics

  • Health Sensors: The focus on advanced health monitoring (e.g., blood pressure) positions Apple to compete with other health-focused wearables like Samsung's Galaxy Watches and Google’s Pixel Watch.
  • 5G Race: While Apple is late to the 5G party compared to some competitors, the RedCap implementation could be a strategic move to balance performance and power efficiency.

Strategic Considerations

  • Market Positioning: The Ultra 3 aims to maintain Apple's premium position in the wearable market while addressing gaps in connectivity and health features.
  • Supply Chain: MediaTek is providing the radio chip, indicating potential cost optimizations for Apple. However, reliance on external suppliers may impact control over hardware quality.

Long-Term Effects

  • Health Tech Leadership: Success of blood pressure monitoring could solidify Apple's leadership in health-focused wearables and open new revenue streams.
  • Regulatory Impact: If blood pressure monitoring requires FDA approval, delays could occur, but compliance would enhance credibility and market acceptance.

Competitive Landscape

  • Pressure from Alternatives: Competitors like Samsung and Google are innovating rapidly. Apple must ensure its updates justify the premium pricing to retain customer loyalty.
  • User Expectations: The delay in meaningful hardware updates (e.g., blood pressure monitoring) could lead to dissatisfaction among loyal customers expecting cutting-edge features.

Strategic Moves

  • Balancing Innovation and Cost: RedCap 5G is a strategic compromise, offering enhanced connectivity without the power demands of full 5G.
  • Focus on Health: Emphasizing health sensors aligns with growing consumer demand for wellness tracking, positioning Apple as a leader in preventive healthcare technology.

Potential Challenges

  • Consumer Perception: If satellite features underperform or subscription fees are introduced too soon, user backlash could harm the product's reputation.
  • Technical Delays: Any delay in blood pressure monitoring implementation could impact the product's marketability and competitive edge.