Apple Watch Series 11: What we know about the smartwatch that would recover a key function and that would arrive alongside the iPhone 17

Apple announced the return of blood oxygen monitoring for some Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 users in the United States.

This capability, which had been disabled following a patent dispute with Masimo, was reintroduced via a software update following a recent ruling by that country's Customs, Apple reported in an official publication.

The feature returns with a modified design that allows data processing to be moved to the iPhone, avoiding violating the ban imposed on Apple on models sold after January 2024.

To access the feature, users must have iOS 18.6.1 on their iPhone and watchOS 11.6.1 on their watch. Data will be available in the Health app, under Respiratory.

According to the latest reports, Apple is expected to officially unveil the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3 in September 2025, alongside the iPhone 17.

Although the company hasn't confirmed dates, the event is expected to take place early that month, with reservations opening days later and general availability by mid-September.

- New chip and performance improvements

The Apple Watch Series 11 is expected to arrive with a new S11 processor, replacing the S10 chip from the previous model. This new component promises improvements in speed, energy efficiency, and support for new features, including:

One of the most anticipated advancements is the introduction of blood pressure tracking. According to Bloomberg reports cited by CNET , Apple is already testing this feature, although its launch could be delayed due to accuracy issues.

The blood glucose monitoring function is also still under development, although this is considered even further off.

- Larger design and screen

Leaked images from the iOS 26 public beta, discovered by MacRumors , indicate that the Apple Watch Ultra 3 will have a larger display with a 422 x 514 pixel resolution (up from the Ultra 2's 410 x 502 pixels). The increase is said to come with thinner bezels, in line with Apple's signature streamlined design.

The Ultra 3 is also said to incorporate the S11 chip, allowing it to keep up with software demands and support advanced features like GPS tracking, health sensors, and potential new artificial intelligence tools.

According to Bloomberg 's Mark Gurman, Apple is exploring integrating satellite connectivity into the Ultra 3. This feature would allow for emergency messaging and location sharing without cellular coverage, expanding the watch's potential for outdoor activities. There's also speculation about the arrival of 5G connectivity, an improvement over the current LTE support.

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is said to maintain its extended battery life (up to 72 hours in low-power mode) with possible improvements that would allow for three to four days of use.

It is expected to adopt the fast charging system introduced with the Series 10, reducing time off the wrist.

Both models could benefit from “Workout Buddy,” an AI-based assistant that offers real-time guidance during workouts.

This tool is part of the watchOS 26 system and is considered a first step toward “Project Mulberry,” Apple’s broader initiative to integrate personalized artificial intelligence into health and wellness, according to Bloomberg.

No significant price increases are expected. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to maintain a starting price of $799 in the United States, the same as its predecessor (approximately 3,235,700 Colombian pesos).

Specific pricing details for the Series 11 have yet to be revealed, but they are expected to be similar to previous models.

*This content was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence, based on publicly available information released to media outlets. It was also reviewed by the journalist and an editor.