Water functions in the Apple Watch Series 10: Ultra 2 remains better
Apple added some functions to its new computer watch previously only available on the more expensive Ultra. However, support for water sports is limited.
Apple Watch Series 10 while surfing: Professionals still need the Ultra.
(Image: Apple)
This year, Apple is confusing us with its changed Apple Watch lineup: The Ultra 2 was only given a new color version, which was actually expected for the previous year, while the Series 10 as a "standard watch" receives some features that the Ultra 2 now lacks, including the wide-angle OLED display for better readability. In other areas too, the standard watch now appears to be on a par with the Ultra –, at least at first glance. On closer inspection, however, the Ultra 2 is still ahead. A good example is the new tracking functions for water sports.
The small difference
For the first time, the Series 10 can measure water depth and water temperature. However, the Ultra 2 can be worn up to 100 meters (i.e. also for diving), while the Series 10 can only be worn up to 50 meters. The depth sensor of the Series 10 is only sufficient for snorkeling with a maximum of 6 meters, while the Ultra 2 can display up to 40 meters. "Recreational scuba diving" is possible with it, writes Apple. High-speed water sports are also only permitted with the Ultra 2.
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Nevertheless, Apple is trying to establish the Series 10 more strongly for ocean and pool fans. The popular diving and snorkeling app Oceanic Plus will also be adapted for the Series 10 –, no doubt with advance help from the company. The Tides app is also brand new for surfing enthusiasts. "Users can call up tide forecasts for seven consecutive days for coasts and surf spots around the globe, including information on high and low tide, ebb and flow, tide height and direction, and sunrise and sunset, all displayed on a timeline," the company writes. Furthermore, nearby beaches are displayed on a map and there are matching complications with current tide and temperature information.
New training types
Apple has also tweaked the training types. With watchOS 11, which will be released next week, there will be configurable workouts for pool swimming. The new depth measurement app for the Series 10 can be activated automatically if desired. The wide-angle OLED should help with reading the watch, increasing the brightness by 40 percent when viewed from the side.
However, there are still differences to the Ultra 2 display. The latter can reach a maximum brightness of 3000 candela, while the Series 10 has a (still respectable) 2000 candela "peak brightness". In terms of resolution, the two are almost on a par. The Series 10 display can now show one line more. The Series 10 and the Ultra 2 in a new dark color are already available for pre-order and will go on sale on September 20.
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