Apple Watch Series 12 Launches With Major Health Upgrades

Apple has officially unveiled the Apple Watch Series 12 at its September 9, 2026 product event, placing health monitoring and artificial intelligence at the centre of its latest smartwatch. The new model starts at $399 and is scheduled to become available on September 18. Apple also introduced the Apple Watch Ultra 4 alongside the Series 12, with the new generation designed to provide more detailed health and fitness information.

The Series 12 features Apple’s redesigned Health Sensing System, which the company describes as its most accurate heart-rate sensing technology in a wearable. The improved sensor arrangement allows the watch to measure heart rate more frequently, with readings taken as often as every five seconds. Apple has also expanded heart-rate variability monitoring, allowing the device to provide additional information that can contribute to insights around stress and recovery.

Performance has also received an upgrade through Apple’s new S11 chip. The processor is designed to provide faster CPU and GPU performance while supporting enhanced Siri capabilities and other AI-powered experiences. The watch runs watchOS 27, which introduces features including a new Readiness score, improved Smart Stack suggestions, gesture controls and additional fitness tools.

Apple has also expanded the smartwatch’s health-focused software through its redesigned Health app. The app introduces a Longevity section containing features such as Health Age and Readiness, giving users a broader view of their long-term health and daily condition. Apple is combining information from the watch with artificial intelligence to make large amounts of health and fitness data easier to understand.

Another notable change is the return of ceramic as a premium case option. Apple is offering the Series 12 in pearl white and night blue ceramic configurations, with those versions starting at $899, substantially above the standard $399 model. With improved sensing, faster performance and expanded AI-powered health features, the Series 12 represents Apple’s continued effort to make the Apple Watch a more comprehensive health and wellness device rather than simply a smartwatch.