Apple Watch 12 & Ultra 4: Leaks Reveal a Big Hardware Change
Apple launched the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 during its Surprise and Shine event on September 9, 2026. The Series 12 features a new S11 chip and a redesigned health sensing system. Aluminum models now include Ceramic Shield, which Apple claims increases screen toughness by 60%. The device is available in various aluminum, titanium, and ceramic finishes. The event also saw the debut of the iPhone Duo, Apple's first folding phone, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and AirPods 5.
What changed
Apple officially announced the Series 12 and Ultra 4 hardware specifications and finishes.
Live updates
-
Apple Unveils Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 with New Health Sensing System
Apple launched the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 during its Surprise and Shine event on September 9, 2026. The Series 12 features a new S11 chip and a redesigned health sensing system. Aluminum models now include Ceramic Shield, which Apple claims increases screen toughness by 60%. The device is available in various aluminum, titanium, and ceramic finishes. The event also saw the debut of the iPhone Duo, Apple's first folding phone, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and AirPods 5.
Why it matters
These wearables follow leaks from iOS 27 and watchOS 27 beta code regarding sensor and storage upgrades. This product launch represents the first keynote led by CEO John Ternus. The hardware updates aim to compete with existing health-tracking wearables and foldable device competitors.
What is confirmed
- Apple released the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 on September 9, 2026.
- The Apple Watch Series 12 includes an S11 chip and a redesigned health sensing system.
- Apple claims Ceramic Shield makes Series 12 aluminum screens 60% tougher.
- The Surprise and Shine event included the unveiling of the iPhone Duo, the first folding iPhone.
Still unconfirmed
- The Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 feature the most accurate heart rate sensing among wearables.
What to watch next
- Detailed performance reviews of the S11 chip
- Third-party verification of the 60% screen toughness claim
- Consumer reception of the iPhone Duo folding mechanism
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (5)
- www.dailymail.com — Apple is hosting its 'surprise and shine' event TODAY where it could unveil its first foldable iPhone - here's how you can watch live
- www.cultofmac.com — Surprise and Shine event
- www.androidpolice.com — Apple Watch 12 and Ultra 4's biggest upgrade isn't the hardware—it's what your wrist can now hear
- arstechnica.com — Apple Watch Series 12, Ultra 4 have wearables’ “most accurate heart rate sensing”
- www.macrumors.com — Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 Announced Featuring All-New Health Sensing System
-
Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 expected at September 9 event
Apple is expected to unveil the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 tomorrow, September 9, during the Surprise and Shine event. Leaks from iOS 27 and watchOS 27 beta code suggest the new models will include a new sensor, increased storage, a new app, and expanded workout data. The Ultra 4 specifically is anticipated to feature a faster chip, health upgrades, and expanded satellite capabilities. This event marks the first keynote led by new Apple CEO John Ternus.
Why it matters
These updates follow previous reports of continuous heart-rate tracking and a redesigned Fitness app. The hardware changes aim to strengthen Apple's health monitoring and outdoor utility. The event also includes the debut of the iPhone 18 lineup.
What is confirmed
- Apple is holding the Surprise and Shine event on September 9.
- The Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 are expected to be unveiled tomorrow.
- John Ternus is the new Apple CEO leading the September 9 keynote.
Still unconfirmed
- The Apple Watch Ultra 4 will include a faster chip, health upgrades, and expanded satellite features.
What to watch next
- Confirmation of the four leaked watchOS 27 features.
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (8)
- www.cnet.com — A Folding iPhone at Last? What to Expect From Apple’s Surprise and Shine Fall Event
- www.theapplepost.com — Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 features leak days before Apple event
- www.theapplepost.com — Apple Watch Ultra 4 is coming this week: Here’s what to expect
- tech.sportskeeda.com — Latest Apple Watch leaks and rumors (Series 12 and Ultra 4)
- www.cnet.com — Apple Event 2026 Live: The First Foldable iPhone, iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch 12 and More
- www.etnownews.com — iPhone 18 launch event September 9: India date, time, how to watch Apple’s ‘Surprise and Shine’; iPhone 18 Pro Max expected price in India, specifications, camera ...
- www.macworld.com — Code leak reveals four new Apple Watch Series 12 features
- 9to5mac.com — watchOS 27 code reveals four changes for Apple Watch Ultra 4, more
-
Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 Leaks Tease Major Changes
Recent leaks indicate significant upcoming hardware and software changes for the Apple Watch lineup, specifically targeting the Apple Watch Series 12 and the Apple Watch Ultra 4. Reports reveal that Apple is testing continuous, always-on heart-rate tracking and preparing a new Fitness app. Additionally, leaks suggest the Apple Watch Ultra 4 will feature doubled sensors for a massive hardware upgrade. These potential updates highlight Apple's ongoing efforts to enhance health monitoring capabilities on future wearable devices.
Why it matters
Wearable technology companies continuously compete to offer advanced health tracking features that keep users engaged and informed. Apple has steadily positioned its smartwatch lineup as a serious health and fitness monitor, making continuous tracking updates a major focus for future releases.
What is confirmed
- Apple is testing continuous heart rate tracking for future Apple Watches.
Still unconfirmed
- The Apple Watch Series 12 may feature always-on heart-rate tracking and a new Fitness app.
- The Apple Watch Ultra 4 will double its sensors for a massive upgrade.
What to watch next
- Official product announcements from Apple regarding the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4
- Confirmation of continuous heart-rate tracking features in upcoming software betas
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (7)
- MacRumors — New Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 Features Revealed
- 9to5Mac — Report: Apple Watch Series 12 may feature always-on heart-rate tracking, new Fitness app
- Geeky Gadgets — Apple Watch 12 & Ultra 4: Leaks Reveal a Big Hardware Change
- Geeky Gadgets — Apple Watch Ultra 4 Leak: Apple is Doubling the Sensors for a Massive Upgrade
- Digital Trends — Apple is testing continuous heart rate tracking for future Apple Watches
- www.dailymail.com — I was an atheist until I died for six minutes: I saw what happens in the afterlife... and I'm still haunted by the chilling 'voices'
- www.dailymail.com — Apple is hosting its 'surprise and shine' event this week where it could unveil its foldable iPhone Ultra - here's how you can watch live