Apple’s wearables took center stage after the iPhone announcements, with the unveiling of the Apple Watch Series 11. Described on stage as “the most comprehensive health tool we’ve ever created,” the new smartwatch expands into territory once reserved for medical devices, while also improving design, performance, and connectivity.
Health Features Take the Lead
The biggest story is health. For the first time, the Apple Watch Series 11 offers blood pressure monitoring, a feature many in the audience had been anticipating for years. Apple demonstrated how the watch can take readings on the wrist and provide trends over time, helping users spot early signs of hypertension.
Alongside this, the device builds on Apple’s fitness and wellness tracking:
- Advanced heart-rate monitoring with irregular rhythm detection
- Sleep tracking with deeper insights into REM cycles
- New hydration and recovery alerts, tied to workouts and activity
- A Slimmer, Faster, and More Connected Design
The Series 11 also received a subtler redesign. Apple made the case that the new chassis is thinner and lighter, with a larger display that curves closer to the edges. It’s not just about looks — the slimmer build makes the watch more comfortable for all-day wear.
Inside, the S11 SiP processor promises faster app launches and more efficient battery use. For the first time, the watch supports 5G cellular, improving standalone performance when untethered from an iPhone. Combined with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, connectivity feels built for the next five years, not just today.
Technical Specifications
Display: Always-on Retina LTPO OLED, up to 2,000 nits brightness
Processor: S11 SiP with upgraded Neural Engine
Health Sensors: Blood pressure monitor, optical heart sensor, ECG, SpO₂, skin temperature
Fitness Tracking: Sleep, hydration, recovery, multi-sport auto-detection
Connectivity: 5G cellular, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6
Battery Life: Up to 24 hours (36 hours in Low Power Mode)
Charging: 80% in about 30 minutes
Build: Aluminum, stainless steel, or titanium options
Sizes: 41mm and 45mm cases
OS: watchOS 26
Pricing and Availability
The Apple Watch Series 11 starts at:
- $399 in the U.S.
- £399 in the UK
Pre-orders open: Friday, September 12
Available in stores and online: Friday, September 19
The Everyday Health Companion
From the stage, it was clear Apple sees the Series 11 less as a gadget and more as a personal health partner. With blood pressure tracking, 5G support, and a sleeker build, it feels like a watch designed for users who want technology to quietly monitor their health and keep them connected. For buyers in the U.S. and UK, the Series 11 sets a new standard for what a mainstream smartwatch can do.
