The next Apple Watch Ultra could offer satellite messaging, a feature that would let users send text messages without relying on cellular or Wi-Fi connections.
The feature is expected to work similarly to its implementation on iPhones.
This feature could attract Garmin inReach users.
The Apple Watch Ultra has always been about pushing boundaries, and the next model might take this to a whole new level. Rumour has it that the next Apple Watch Ultra could offer satellite messaging, a feature that would let users send text messages without relying on cellular or Wi-Fi connections. This would make the smartwatch even more appealing for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts who often find themselves off the grid.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman (via The Verge), satellite messaging has been in the works for the Apple Watch Ultra for some time. The feature is expected to work similarly to its implementation on iPhones, providing a lifeline in situations where traditional communication channels are unavailable.
This feature could attract Garmin inReach users who value the convenience of fewer devices, although Garmin’s superior battery life might still make it the go-to choice for extended hikes.
Also read: Want Apple Watch for free? Walk 15,000 steps daily for a year and get full refund, Here’s how
In addition to satellite messaging, the next Apple Watch Ultra could introduce other advanced features. Gurman reports that Apple may include a new modem from MediaTek in the smartwatch. This component, expected to appear in at least some models, could support RedCap, a 5G service designed specifically for wearables and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. RedCap optimises connectivity by cutting costs, reducing hardware demands, and improving battery life—factors crucial for wearables. However, Apple is reportedly not yet planning to use its in-house modems for the Watch Ultra.
The wearable might also venture further into health monitoring. Blood-pressure tracking, a long-anticipated feature, could make its debut by 2025. However, Gurman cautions that this addition has faced delays before. If introduced, the feature would provide general alerts about potential hypertension instead of delivering precise measurements. This approach aligns with the Apple Watch’s existing health tools, like sleep apnea detection, which prioritise guidance over medical-grade metrics.
Also read: Apple announced new features on Watch Ultra 2, but no Watch Ultra 3: Here’s when it can launch
If these rumours hold true, the next Apple Watch Ultra could become a powerhouse for both connectivity and health monitoring.
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Ayushi Jain
Tech news writer by day, BGMI player by night. Combining my passion for tech and gaming to bring you the latest in both worlds. View Full Profile
