Apple Watch Series 12 with S11 chip, improved health sensors, and ceramic models is here
Apple today unveiled the Apple Watch Series 12, which features a new S11 chip, a redesigned health sensor system, and new case finishes in aluminum, titanium, and ceramic.
The redesigned health sensor system features a larger electrode surface for improved skin contact during ECG measurements, ring-shaped photodiodes for more efficient light detection, and larger, more energy-efficient green LEDs for heart rate measurement.
Apple Watch Series 12 with the most precise heart rate measurement
Apple states that the updated heart rate app on the Apple Watch Series 12 displays readings more frequently and that the system offers the most accurate heart rate measurement of any wearable. To support this accuracy, Apple cites a study with hundreds of participants who ran, cycled, and performed HIIT workouts, using an ECG chest strap as a reference.
Meanwhile, a new feature called “Readiness” analyzes recent activities, vital signs and sleep every morning to provide an assessment indicating whether users should recover, slow down or increase their activity.
Apple is also revamping the Health app, offering personalized recommendations using Apple Intelligence. The new “Health Age” feature combines Apple Watch metrics like VO2 max and sleep with blood test results to compare users’ health indicators with their chronological age. The “Longevity” tab brings together insights into sleep, exercise, heart health, and other areas.
Apple states that users can manually enter lab results or sync their medical data. In the US, Apple also offers a Quest blood profile with over 50 biomarkers for $119. Additionally, there’s a new VO2 max test that uses the iPhone camera and Apple Watch to measure users’ performance during various exercises and deliver instant results. The redesigned Health app will be released later this year.
Audio Intelligence
The S11 chip’s energy-efficient always-on processor enables new audio intelligence features such as noise detection, which identifies sounds like alarms, doorbells and baby cries, and Live Rewind, which displays a transcript of what was said in the previous 15 seconds.
Siri Recap creates titles, summaries, and key points from conversations, which users can view in the Siri app. According to Apple, users can schedule the automatic note-taking feature or activate it in Control Center. The audio features do not create or save audio recordings. Siri Recap will launch as a beta version later this year, initially in English; other languages will follow.
Apple Watch Series 12 pricing
The Apple Watch Series 12 is available in aluminum in Space Gray, Black, Light Gold, and Dark Bronze. The aluminum models feature Ceramic Shield, which Apple says makes the screens 60% more durable. Polished titanium models come in Radiant Gold and Natural, while the ceramic models are available in Pearl White and Midnight Blue.
The Apple Watch Series 12 is available starting at €449/$399 and can be pre-ordered from today. It will be available from September 18th.
