Apple Watch Series 9: release date, price, features, colors

As expected, Apple is renewing its range of connected watches with the Apple Watch Series 9 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2, two models which use a proven recipe with some welcome improvements… and lower prices!

In 2023, the Apple Watch enters into its 9th iteration, and it was the first product to be announced at Apple recent September 2023 event. The event unveils a new wave of Apple Watches and a new Apple Watch Ultra, the most expensive model in the lineup, as rumors had suggested for months. There's no Series X or major overhaul; instead, it's an evolution for Apple's smartwatch. We may have to wait until next year, when the Apple Watch turns ten, for a significant redesign.

In the meantime, Apple has emphasized its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. This involves maximizing the use of recycled materials and utilizing green energy to produce its devices. The new Apple Watches lead this trend by offering certain combinations (case + strap) that are carbon-neutral. Despite speculations about the end of the partnership with Hermès for luxury bracelet design, Apple has renewed it, replacing leather models with FineWoven bands, a plant-based fiber.

What's new in the Apple Watch Series 9?

The design of the Apple Watch Series 9 remains unchanged. However, Apple introduces a new light pink case. In terms of the visible part of the watch, Apple announces that the watch now features a display with a brightness of 2000 nits, equivalent to what was seen in the previous year's Apple Watch Ultra.

But the main difference between the Series 8 and Series 9 is on the inside. The new Apple Watch comes equipped with a SIP 9 chip, more powerful than the previous model, and it is responsible for managing a new function called Double Tap. This feature allows users to control some watch functions without touching the screen with their other hand. A quick double tap between the thumb and index finger can answer or end a phone call, start a timer, silence an alarm, or scroll through the various new widgets in the new WatchOS version.

Another small update is that queries made with the voice assistant Siri for simple commands like launching an app no longer require an internet connection. They are processed locally on the device. Everything else remains largely the same, with the sensors used in the Series 8 remaining in place. Regarding battery life, Apple claims a full day of use.

What's new in the Apple Watch Ultra 2?

The largest and most expensive model of the Apple Watch lineup retains the same form factor, and contrary to rumors, there is no new black color option. Like the Series 9, the second edition of the Apple Watch Ultra benefits from a brighter screen, increasing from 2000 to 3000 nits. Aside from the new SIP 9 chip, which allows the Ultra model to also use the Double Tap feature, the components remain unchanged. However, to differentiate the models, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 features a new watch face called Modular Ultra, loaded with complications but slightly more legible than on the first model. In terms of battery life, users can expect approximately 36 hours or 72 hours with power-saving modes.

When is the release date?

Pre-orders are open on Tuesday, September 12, with the watches available in stores on September 22.

How much does the Apple Watch cost?

The new Apple Watch Series 9 will be available starting at $339 (for the aluminum case model). This represents a slight price decrease compared to last year. Two sizes, 41mm and 45mm, are available. The Apple Watch Ultra 2, on the other hand, will be sold for $799. Contrary to rumors, we are pleased to see that there is no significant price increase.