The Apple Watch Series 12 is here, complete with a new Health Sensing System and more robust protection for its gorgeous display, making it the best non-Ultra Apple wearable yet. Some Apple Watch updates are hard to distinguish from the previous model. Others bring design changes that are immediately obvious.
And then there's the Apple Watch Series 12. A major redesign was unlikely for 2026, so the familiar look wasn't a surprise. That put more pressure on Apple to add features compelling enough to persuade current owners to upgrade.
The Apple Watch Series 12 adds several new features, but even smaller upgrades can make a noticeable difference in everyday use. Those changes deserve a closer look. Apple also released the Apple Watch Ultra 4 for those who want a more rugged smartwatch.
But for most people, the Apple Watch Series 12 offers everything they need. At first blush, the Apple Watch Series 12 looks identical to the outgoing Apple Watch Series 11. But there are differences, most notably in the materials and colors on offer.
Like most recent releases, the Apple Watch Series 12 is available in 42mm and 46mm case sizes. Aluminum and titanium options remain, and ceramic has returned. Most buyers will likely choose the entry-level aluminum model on review here.
It comes in four colors: dark bronze, light gold, black, and Space Gray. The titanium model comes in gold and natural, while the ceramic model comes in pearl white and night blue. Beyond the case materials and colors, the Apple Watch Series 12 has two main design changes.
One is on the front, and the other is on the back. The front of the Apple Watch Series 12 gets a durability upgrade that matters if you're rough on your watch. For the first time, the aluminum model features Ceramic Shield 2.
Apple says the upgraded protection is 60% tougher than the Ion-X glass previously used on aluminum Apple Watches. It's still too early to know how well that claim will hold up to daily use. The other change is the new Health Sensing System, found on the back of the new Apple Watch.
Replacing the previous sensors, the new addition promises more frequent and accurate readings. The change is obvious when you first turn the Apple Watch Series 12 over. The new sensor array features larger electrodes situated around the photodiodes that collect data from the wrist.
Source: AppleInsider · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing