Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 got dissected

New information keeps emerging about Apple's recently introduced smartwatch models.

Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 got dissected

Much has been said about the durability and internal workings of the iPhone 15, but accompanying its release were the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Watch Series 9, both equally noteworthy. My curiosity was piqued by the internal adjustments Apple might have made, especially concerning the widely-discussed “Double Tap” feature.

Renowned tech platform iFixit recently gave us an inside look into these latest Apple watches. Delving into the Apple Watch Ultra 2, one significant distinction is its slightly beefed-up battery. It houses a 564mAh battery, which is a subtle 4% increase from the original Ultra's 542mAh. Although the battery is slightly larger, Apple asserts that the device will maintain the same 36-hour battery life as its predecessor.

Another update observed was the introduction of the new S9 SiP chip, Apple’s most recent SoC iteration for smartwatches. A generational upgrade of this nature was somewhat expected. Aside from this, the Ultra 2 doesn't present any discernible hardware differences from its forerunner.

Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 got dissected

Turning our attention to the Watch Series 9, its similarity to the previous version is unmistakable. The only evident modification is a new “spongy ring of foam” at the back of the watch, which has replaced the individual components used in past models. However, this seems like a minor tweak. Even so, iFixit commended the 2023 Apple Watch, mentioning its noticeably easier disassembly process compared to older versions, particularly highlighting improvements in adhesive and cable management.

iFixit did express some criticism, particularly concerning Apple's promotion of the Double Tap feature. They highlighted that it's merely a reiteration of pre-existing accessibility features and was not available upon launch. Additionally, it's essential to note that this feature doesn't necessitate any new hardware components. Overall, while there were no major revelations from iFixit's teardowns, it was enlightening to confirm that the Double Tap feature is purely software-based.

In conclusion, these latest offerings from Apple, despite certain criticisms, remain robust contenders in the smartwatch market, potentially serving both individual consumers and businesses well with their performance, feature set, and battery longevity.

Apple Watch