Apple has launched many products this year, but the arrival of the Apple Watch Ultra 4 is expected later this year, and there are currently rumors about four new features.

#1: Brand New Health Sensors

At the end of last summer, Digitimes reported, based on supply chain sources, that this year's Apple Watch Ultra 4 will double the number of sensor components.

Some of these new sensors may relate to Touch ID, which I will address separately.

However, one thing Apple has consistently changed in the Apple Watch is the variety of health sensors.

Digitimes states that the new sensors will allow Apple to reduce its dependence on algorithmic data interpretation, which will not only provide better health data but also improve performance and battery life.

Apple has long been trying to add blood glucose monitoring to the Apple Watch, but despite some promising recent trends, it is reported that this feature is not expected this year.

#2: Industrial Design Changes

Digitimes also reports that the new Apple Watch Ultra 4 will bring "changes to the exterior design."

It is unclear how significant these design changes will be. The report includes rumors of a "major redesign," but newer reports are less optimistic about the extent of the changes.

While MicroLED is among Apple's plans, the 2026 Apple Watch Ultra was expected to be significantly larger. However, it is believed that these plans may have changed without the new display technology.

#3: Touch ID

Filipe Espósito from Macworld found evidence in leaked Apple code that Touch ID is being worked on for the 2026 Apple Watch models. He reported:

Apple is experimenting with some biometric authentication methods on the Apple Watch. The code explicitly mentioned for the 2026 model Apple Watch includes support for Touch ID, which has long been referred to by Apple’s internal code name "AppleMesa."

No further details have been shared regarding the hardware implementation. It is likely that Apple will integrate Touch ID into the side button, Digital Crown, or Action button.

Adding Touch ID could reduce the need to enter passwords and provide a practical way to authenticate for Apple Pay transactions.

#4: Energy Efficiency Gains

Due to gains related to a new S-class chip or new sensors, Digitimes states that "energy efficiency will significantly increase" in the new Ultra model.

Last year’s Apple Watch Ultra 3 saw battery life improvements for the first time in the Ultra series. This is expected to happen again with the Ultra 4.

Battery gains seem to be the most likely result of significant efficiency improvements. However, there are also other possibilities, such as Apple shrinking the battery to make room for other sensors. If it can deliver the same great battery life with a smaller physical battery, it may make that trade-off.

Expected Features of Apple Watch Ultra 4: Overall Assessment

The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is expected to be introduced in early September, and therefore many more leaks and rumors will follow.

However, based on current expectations, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 is anticipated to offer upgrades in the areas that users care most about: health, design, and battery.

What new features are you hoping for in the Apple Watch Ultra 4? Share with us in the comments.

Best Apple Watch Accessories

  • AirPods Pro 3
  • Portable USB-C charger for Apple Watch
  • Retro Mac stand for Apple Watch Night Mode
  • Anker 20W USB-C charging adapter
  • Adjustable metal Apple Watch strap