The Apple Watch Ultra 2 was originally launched last year with a faster processor, a much brighter display and new double tap gesture - which lets you interact with the screen without physically touching it - some of the headline additions.
Ever since the very first Ultra arrived all the way back in 2022 it's been my go-to wearable due to its more rugged design, longer battery life and exclusive Action Button which launches favourites such as workouts with just one tap. The Ultra 2 replaced the first Ultra on my wrist in 2023 and now I've got another tempting addition added to the collection.
Apple hasn't released a Watch Ultra 3 this year but it has launched something many have been asking for. Yes, for the first time, there's an all-new colour to choose from.
Having taken delivery of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in black titanium ahead of its UK release I can confirm that it looks seriously snazzy and it will definitely suit those who want a mean-looking watch attached to their wrist. In fact, if Batman was an Apple fan he'd be racing to a store this Friday to make sure he was at the front of the queue.
Unlike the new Apple Watch Series 10 which now features a slimmer case and shiny titanium finish, there's nothing subtle about the black titanium Watch Ultra 2. This is a big, bold device that includes a moody matt finish with flashes of orange on the Action Button and Digital Crown. It's not a device that will suit everyone but that's exactly why Apple released the Ultra in the first place. This is a rugged wearable that's built to take some serious punishment - it's not a watch you'll probably wear out to a posh dinner at the Ritz.
Firstly it now features a diamond-like carbon physical vapor deposition coating over the grade 5 titanium which Apple is boasting makes it scratch-resistant and durable. I'll be testing this over the coming months to see how true that claim is and will update this review once I've fully put it through its paces.
It can also be taken to depths of 100m and cope with extreme temperatures and there are neat features inside including improved GPS and an in-built alarm which will belt out a loud sound should you find yourself in trouble.
The huge display makes it easy to see your running, walking and swimming stats and it transforms into a useful depth gauge the minute you place it in water.
New software updates also including giving you "Overnight Vitals" to see what shape you are in for the day ahead. Along with checking your heart rate and blood oxygen levels it will also keep an eye out for sleep apnoea as well. This is a disorder that causes you to stop breathing while asleep and, if not addressed it can cause serious issues over time. Apple is using sensors that can monitor breathing disturbances to see if users are affected by this issue
Since switching to the Apple Watch I've seen some big improvements to my health, fitness and overall motivation. I now run almost every day in a bid to close the colourful activity rings displayed on the screen. My blood pressure has dropped and I've lost over a stone in weight.
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I even managed to set off the SOS alarm one evening when I slipped down the stairs proving this feature really could be a lifesaver - especially with so many of us now working from home and often alone.
Yes, the Watch Ultra 2 is £799 and you can join the smartwatch revolution for a much cheaper price. But this is a device I continue to go back to time and time again. Of course, it also comes in that new and very tempting black titanium and I can't see another device taking pride of place on my wrist anytime soon.
