As every year, Apple introduced the new generation Apple Watch models at this year’s fall keynote. We got the Apple Watch 9 and the updated version of the Apple Watch Ultra, the Ultra 2. What’s new? Is it worth upgrading? Let’s find out!
Apple Watch 9
What new features does the base model include this year?
In terms of design, there haven’t been major changes. The aluminum version is available in pink, midnight, starlight, silver, and Product Red. The stainless steel version comes in gold, silver, and graphite.
Compared to last year’s model, the color palette has expanded with the addition of pink for those who prefer aluminum cases.
Users upgrading now will also get a brighter display than previous generations. According to Apple, the screen is twice as bright, reaching up to 2000 nits. It can also dim down to as low as 1 nit.
The new S9 chip is significantly more powerful, featuring 5.6 billion transistors—about 60% more than the S8. The 4-core Neural Engine is twice as fast in machine learning tasks and enables new features such as double tap.
What is “Double Tap”?
This new gesture-based control allows you to perform actions without touching the screen.
By tapping your thumb and index finger together twice, you can:
Answer calls
Play or pause music
Perform various quick actions
Thanks to the new processor, Siri dictation is also more accurate. You can even ask health-related questions like: “How many steps did I take yesterday?”
If you have a HomePod, you can control music directly from your watch. No need to reach for your phone or even speak—your Apple Watch can manage it.
With the new chip, Precision Finding is now available on the watch as well, making it easier to locate your iPhone.
All straps remain backward compatible.
Carbon Neutral
The Apple Watch 9 is the first Apple Watch to be 100% carbon neutral—from manufacturing to shipping, all the way to usage—when paired with certain sport bands.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
The new Apple Watch Ultra generation includes all the updates found in the base model. It features the S9 chip, supports double tap, and includes all the improvements mentioned above.
There are no design changes to the case, and straps remain fully compatible across models.
Carbon neutrality is not yet available for this model, but it’s still a significant step forward, especially since the base model (which most people buy) is now fully carbon neutral.
Pricing
- Apple Watch 9 starting price: 189,990 HUF (gross)
- Apple Watch Ultra 2 price: 379,990 HUF (gross)
- Apple Watch SE is still available, starting at 119,990 HUF (gross)
Summary
Is it worth upgrading?
The Apple Watch 9 is definitely a solid choice. However, if you already own a Series 7 or 8, upgrading may not be necessary—unless you really like the new features.
For those using Series 6 or older, the upgrade is absolutely worth it. You’ll get a bigger, brighter display and longer software support.
For Apple Watch Ultra users, the upgrade may not provide a significant improvement—especially considering the price. However, for those planning to switch from the base model to the Ultra, the newer generation is the better choice.
If you’re just entering the Apple Watch ecosystem but don’t want to buy a brand-new device, you can find premium, tested used Apple Watch models via the link provided.
You can also explore other Apple products and accessories through the same link.