Apple unveiled the Apple Watch Series 8 and the all-new Apple Watch Ultra at its 'Far Out' event, and the latter looks set to be the new default smartwatch for athletes. For years, the company has retained the same general image for the Apple Watch. Though screen sizes and functionality have increased, the current Apple Watch's design has many similarities with the first model. This year, Apple switched things up with the introduction of the Apple Watch Ultra, a ruggedized version of its popular smartwatch.
The Apple Watch Series 8 was, once again, a minor refinement when compared to the previous edition Watch Series 7. There were a few new feature additions — including a body temperature sensor, advanced cycle tracking, and Crash Detection — but the Apple Watch Series 8 looks and feels similar to its predecessor. That might lead some potential buyers to look towards the Apple Watch Ultra, which apart from sporting a fresh design, has additional features tailored to extreme sports and outdoor exploration.
The and Fall and Crash Detection.
Durability Standards Push The Ultra Ahead Of Series 8
Though the Apple Watch Series 8 comes close to matching the Apple Watch Ultra's feature set, the latter comes out ahead when durability is considered. It's strong enough to earn MIL-STD 810H certification, which is reserved for military-grade products that can function in extreme conditions. Requirements for the certification include, but are not limited to, the ability to withstand extreme temperatures and air pressures. But the durability is just as strong underwater as on land. Apple Watch Ultra is rated for swimming in up to 100 meters of depth, and can be used for recreational diving in up to 40 meters of depth. It even maintains EN 13319 certification, which is a European standard for dive computers and accessories.
The casing and glass is composed of different materials than the Series 8, and the two materials combine to produce an especially strong Apple Watch Ultra. The large 49mm case on the Apple Watch Ultra is made out of titanium and the front glass is made out of sapphire crystal. Both materials are strong in different ways, and together are fit to survive the extreme conditions the Apple Watch Ultra is designed to experience. The titanium shell is strong enough to prevent cracking, while the sapphire glass can withstand scratches from most materials. It even comes with special strap options that are suited to different outdoor activities. Apple Watch Ultra is very similar to the Apple Watch Series 8 in of features, but the durability standards earned by the former make it the go-to option for extreme athletes and adventurers alike.