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Apple Pre-Orders Kick Off With First Discounts on HomeView and Apple TV 4K
Pre-orders are now live on Apple's newest devices, including the HomeView and Apple TV 4K, and Amazon has the first-ever discounts on these devices. We're also tracking great deals on MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and Apple Watch SE 3 in this week's best Apple deals. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
Former Plaud exec raises $26M for AI app that listens to you in the background
Ambi is releasing apps for iPhone, Mac, and Apple Watch that enables ambient capture
Apple Watch Series 12, Ultra 4 Owners Report Skin Irritation
Some Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 owners have experienced unexpected skin irritation with the new models, according to reports on the MacRumors forums and Reddit. Affected users complain of a burning sensation and redness under the sensor area. The Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 measure heart rate every five seconds, and some people have wondered if that's the cause of the skin irritation.
Get AirPods Pro 3 for $179, Apple Watch for $199, and More Before Prime Day Ends Today
Amazon Prime Big Deal Days is coming to a close later today, so we're quickly recapping all of the best Apple and Apple-related deals that are still live on Amazon right now. Since many of these products have been on sale for a few days, shipping may be delayed, but they're all at some of the lowest prices we've ever seen. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors.
iFixit tears down Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, finds mixed repairability results
Concluding iFixit’s teardown sequence for Apple’s September launches, iFixit today published the teardown of the new Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4.
Garmin's New Smartwatch Has Battery Life That Laps the Apple Watch Ultra 4
The Garmin Enduro 4 promises up to 320 hours of battery while still offering the health and fitness tracking features of the Fenix 9 Pro.
Best Prime Big Deal Days Tech & Apple Deals 2026
Shop the best tech and Apple deals during Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days. Save big on AirPods, Apple Watch, MacBooks, headphones and more top gadgets.
The Best October Prime Day Apple Deals on AirPods, MacBooks, and More
Many Apple’s products are pricier than ever, but we’ve found some decent Prime Day deals on AirTags, AirPods, Apple Watches, and more.
Upgrade to Apple Watch Series 12 or Ultra 4? Here’s how to get the most out of it
Upgrade to a new Apple Watch Series 12 or Ultra 4? Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 bring upgraded...
Apple Watch Prime Day Deals Arrive With New All-Time Low Prices for Series 12 and Ultra 4
Big Apple Watch discounts have started arriving ahead of Prime Big Deal Days, including new low prices on Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4. These deals join some Apple Watch SE 3 discounts that we began tracking over the weekend, alongside other major early Prime Big Deal Days markdowns. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
Here's why I upgraded from the Apple Watch Series 10 to Series 12
I’m someone who doesn’t often upgrade my Apple Watch right when a new one comes out. The Apple Watch Series...
Apple Watch Ultra 4 is an AI Powerhouse With Fitness and Health Improvements, But Do You Need it?
Apple has upgraded the Ultra again, and there's lots to like in the new version, including a super-accurate HR sensor and a powerful new AI ready chip.
Apple Watch Series 12, Ultra 4 adding two new features soon
Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 have arrived, and later this year they’ll get even more powerful with two new features.
Apple Watch Ultra 4 Review: Still the Best Health Buddy for Your Wrist
The fourth-gen Apple Watch Ultra doesn't reinvent the wheel, but it sure does pack plenty of upgrades, like more accurate health tracking and longer battery life.
watchOS 27.0.1 is now available for all compatible Apple Watch models
Apple today expanded the availability of watchOS 27.0.1 to more Apple Watch models, following last week’s initial release for Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4
Apple Releases watchOS 27.0.1 for Additional Models
After releasing watchOS 27.0.1 for the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 last week to address a bug that was causing devices to restart unexpectedly, Apple has now released the update for all eligible watches, which includes Series 9 and later.
11 Cool New Apple Accessories Worth Adding To Your Kit
Explore the new Apple accessories worth adding to your kit, from colourful charging cables and MagSafe wallets to iPhone straps and refreshed Apple Watch bands.
Apple Watch Series 12 one week later: There's so much more than meets the eye
When Apple unveiled the Apple Watch Series 12, two features stood out: the new Siri Recap feature, as well as...
watchOS 27: 12 New Things To Check Out on Your Apple Watch
Apple released watchOS 27 on September 14. The features and changes aren't limited to owners of new Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 models. If you have an Apple Watch model that supports the latest update, here are 12 features and changes to check out after installation. To do so, open the Watch app on your iPhone, then tap General ➝ Software Update, strap your watch into a charger, and follow the onscreen prompts.
Apple (AAPL) Plans a Health App Overhaul. Can Better Insights Boost Device Sales?
On September 9, 2026, the Wall Street Journal reported that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is undertaking a major overhaul of its Health app and Apple Watch strategy. It debuts the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 with an upgraded Health Sensing System alongside an Apple Intelligence-driven software redesign coming to iOS 27 that introduces a […]
watchOS 27 upgrades popular Apple Watch face with new options
Apple Watch offers lots of custom faces to personalize your Watch, and the popular Modular face gets even more versatile in watchOS 27.
Apple Watch Ultra 4 vs Apple Watch Series 12: Every Difference Detailed!
Every feature compared between the Apple Watch Series 12 & Apple Watch Ultra 4 - side-by-side in real life!
I Tested the Apple Watch's New Heart Rate Sensor to See If It's Really Better Than Garmin's
I pitted the Apple Watch Series 12 against the Garmin Forerunner 570—the two most accurate wrist-based heart rate sensors out there. Here are my results.
Apple Watch Ultra 4 includes a new watch face bezel option
Apple Watch Ultra includes a few more ways to customize your watch face than Series models. These include Ultra-only faces,...
watchOS 27.2 includes hidden overhaul for Apple Watch screenshots
watchOS 27.2 is coming next month with new Apple Watch features, and leaker pdfu just found a big change in the works for screenshots too.
Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs. Ultra 4 Buyer's Guide: Should You Upgrade?
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 arrives three years after the Ultra 2. Across those two generations, Apple added satellite connectivity, a larger display, new health sensors, and longer battery life. Are those changes enough to justify replacing an Ultra 2 or paying more for the newest model? Both watches retain a 49mm titanium case, an Action button, a siren, a 3,000-nit display, dual-frequency GPS, and support for recreational diving to 40 meters. The Apple Watch Ultra 4 starts at $799 in the U.S.
Apple Releases watchOS 27.0.1 With Fix for Restart Bug
Apple today released watchOS 27.0.1, a minor update to the watchOS 27 operating system that came out last week. The update is limited to the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4. watchOS 27.0.1 can be downloaded through the Settings app on the watch or the Apple Watch app on a connected iPhone. Software can only be installed when the Apple Watch is on the charger and has over 50 percent battery.
Apple’s Next Health Wearable May Look Nothing Like an Apple Watch
The tech giant is reportedly developing a screen-less fitness tracker to compete with Oura and Whoop.
Apple Watch Series 10 vs. Series 12 Buyer's Guide: Should You Upgrade?
The Apple Watch Series 12 is now available, two years after the Series 10 introduced the current thinner design. But is it worth upgrading? While last year's Series 11 brought just four changes, the Series 12 is a much more substantial update, with a new chip, twice as much RAM, redesigned health sensors, exclusive health and audio features, tougher cover glass, 5G connectivity, and new case materials. The Series 12 starts at the same $399 price as the Series 10 did in 2024.
watchOS 27.2 beta 2 restores App Switcher with a new gesture
If you’ve been missing the double-click of the Digital Crown that used to bring up the App Switcher on the Apple Watch before watchOS 27, it looks like the feature is making a comeback as of watchOS 27.2 beta 2.
Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 introduce a new Theater Mode setting
Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 include a new Health Sensing System that dramatically improves heart rate data. The...
This new Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 feature is surprisingly motivating
Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 include a new fitness-tracking feature: live step tracking on the watch face. Alongside...
Five ways that the new Siri AI is frustrating iPhone and Apple Watch users
The new version of Siri, Siri AI, launched to the masses this month as part of iOS 27. The new...
Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 missing one health-focused feature
Well, this is odd. The handwashing timer feature is currently absent from the new Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra...
Amazon cuts Apple Watch Series 12, Ultra 4 prices upon release
Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 models are on sale this weekend, with Amazon rotating discounts across case options and band colors.
Apple Watch Ultra 4 Sees First Discount After Launch, Now $779.99 on Amazon
The new Apple Watch Ultra 4 just launched yesterday, and Amazon is offering the first cash discounts on select models for the first time since their launch. You can get the Apple Watch Ultra 4 in Natural with Translucent Gray Ocean Band for $779.99, down from $799.00. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
Apple Watch Series 12 might finally convince me to switch away from WHOOP
Earlier this year, I picked up a WHOOP for the very first time. As a longtime Apple Watch user I...
The Big Holes in Wearable Heart Rate Variability And Readiness Scores
On September 9th, Apple announced it was revamping its Apple Watch Health Sensing System, rolling out a Readiness score (0 to 10), and increasing the frequency of heart rate variability (HRV) outputs 24-fold. This can be viewed as upping its competition with various other consumer wearable sensors. These “readiness scores” as a composite of multiple metrics, with heart rate variability (HRV) being front and center for most. The majority of Americans are now using wearable sensors, which equates to well over 100 million adults. HRV and Readiness scores are increasingly being marketed as a measurement of autonomic nervous system health, a digital marker for future disease, a clock for biological age, and a holistic metric to promote healthspan and even longevity. (Apple also introduced a new longevity tab and “Health Age”.) None of this has been proven. In this edition of Ground Truths I am going to review what we know about heart rate variability and readiness scores. Heart Rate Variability HRV is the variation in normal heart cycle timing. The variability of the heart rate, the barely perceptible millisecond changes in time between consecutive heart beats (see R-R intervals in the Figure below, left panel), is due to interplay between the sympathetic and parasympathetic (vagal nerve) inputs. Distinct from heart rate, individuals with the same heart rate can have very different HRVs. It is a rough reflection of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity, inadequate to say whether a person’s ANS function is abnormal. For more than three decades, heart rate variability (HRV) has been measured and several studies have found an association of low HRV and clinical outcomes, particularly a link with higher all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. There have also been less well established links of low HRV to risk of early cognitive impairment, dementia, mental illness, Type 2 diabetes and substance abuse. An important reminder is that HRV is a surrogate marker without any established cause-and-effect relationship. If you increase your HRV, that doesn’t mean it will improve health outcomes. In fact, there is no hard evidence for that. All that work linking to health outcomes was done with electrocardiogram (ECG) derived HRV. Now, in the era of consumer wearables, this is getting assessed differently, by optical pulse (yes, the lights you see) plethysmography (PPG) or what is called pulse rate variability (PRV). They are not the same, as shown below (right panel) and only concordant when the delay between the ECG and pulse is kept constant, which basically means at rest. I should mention there’s also what I will call MPV, a mattress mechanical movement sensor, a derived heart rate variability, that companies like Eight Sleep use, even further away from directly measuring HRV. HRV has not one uniform measurement but many different types of quantification, such as RMSSD, the magnitude of difference between successive R-R intervals of normal sinus beats (N-N) or SDNN, the standard deviation of NN intervals, both in milliseconds. SDNN is one of the so-called frequency domain HRVs (others are LF, HF, LF/HF). Different wearable sensors use different metics; Apple has relied on SDNN and nearly all of the others use RMSSD, which is generally considered the more accurate metric. There’s also the different length of time measured, such as for a matter of minutes, all day, or an overnight’s sleep. Short measurements are especially problematic since they don’t capture enough of respiratory modulation and other factors that influence HRV. Share Ground Truths How well does HRV correlate with PRV? There are very limited studies, especially independently done. One that is commonly cited was conducted by Air Force researchers in only 13 healthy adults assessing Oura ring 3 and 4, Whoop 4.0, and Garmin Fenix 6 and showed a correlation coefficient of 0.88 to 0.97 and a mean absolute percentage error from 6 to 10%. The correlation is not a perfect 1.0, but there’s at least a fairly high level of correlation. HRV is supposed to increase during the night due to takeover of the parasympathetic nervous system, and higher during deep sleep. A recent example of my 1 week, all day “HRV,” and one during sleep is shown below. As you can see, the N of 1 data are inconsistent for the same days from different sensors (Oura, AppleWatch, Fitbit Air, and Eight Sleep) by patterns, absolute numbers, and comparison with prior days and weeks. The largest study in over 8 million Fitbit users (the old version, not Google Fitbit Air, introduced in May 2026) gives you a sense of the effect of age, sex, and the 2 different main HRV (here PRV) metrics, with RMSSD on the left and SDRR (=SDNN) on the right below. That study, from data collected in 2018, is a major outlier, since all the more recent ones are tiny with respect to sample size. Many of the companies have not had independent evaluation of their HRV, such as Eight Sleep, but have published a low standard error on their website. There are some other published studies on the correlation between HRV and PRV, but they are all small and only in healthy adults. A scoping review emphasized the lack of study in underrepresented individuals, including the aged, people of color (which affects the PPG signal), and individuals who are underweight or obese. Add the typical adult age 60 plus with one or more chronic diseases. For example, one study in over 900 adults found poor correlation of HRV and PRV, non-uniformly underestimated across many chronic diseases (cardiovascular, endocrine, neurological, respiratory, and others), concluding PRV is “an invalid surrogate for HRV.” A recent systematic review of 43 studies comparing HRV and PRV found reasonable pooled absolute standardized error (HRV as gold standard) but only 10 of the studies provided quantitative synthesis in ideal conditions. Their main conclusion was similarly cautious: “PPG-derived HRV [PRV] should not be regarded as universally interchangeable with ECG-derived HRV across all devices, populations, and recording contexts.” Factors Affecting HRV and PRV That gets me to the long list of factors that affect HRV (and PRV) besides the device, the type of measurement (RMSSD, SDNN or others), the person’s signal, the sensor site, the duration of data capture, if weighting by sleep stage is used, how artifact is processed and corrected. And this list is not complete!: Oura puts out data from their community of users (who input data) on what affects their overnight HRV. The factors currently provided are: no alcohol (increase 8%), melatonin (increase 2%, float tank (increase 2%), wine (decrease 4%), and party (decrease 14%) in overnight HRV. Must be some big parties! Subscribe What is a PRV measurement good for? It has been falsely characterized as an index of “autonomic balance” and a specific indicator of stress. A 2018 review of the studies available for HRV and its relationship to stress, not using any of the current wearables, found that stress can lower HRV. But so can many other factors. The non-specificity of the signal, indexed to the table above, is striking. Evidence from a UK Biobank study of over 46,000 participants with actual HRV looked at genetically predicted HRV, a genetic risk score, that failed to show the expected HRV-mortality link, indicating that _HRV is likely not causa_l, but rather a reflection of person’s physiologic state. A review of consumer wearable HRV data from 5 longitudinal studies showed that nighttime PRV was not associated with perceived stress, and surprisingly higher HRV, in the largest cohort (N=717 participants), was correlated with higher stress. An Oura ring cohort of 525 first-year college students found a link between overnight PRV and perceived stress, but that was also seen with resting heart rate, sleep, and respiratory rate. Several very small studies have examined the relationship of HRV and athletic injuries or guiding training with mixed, and predominantly negative results. HRV biofeedback training with paced breathing had no significant effect on reducing stress or raising HRV, as demonstrated with sham controlled trials. When HRV for multiple days showed a decline in conjunction with body temperature, the Oura ring published data for prediction of Covid. The WHOOP company sponsored an observational study, published in 2026, of 30,000 users for 72 weeks, without a control group, that reported reduced alcohol intake (5.8 % points) by self-report. That doesn’t tell us much, and particularly about the merits of HRV for behavioral change. If you use the same device and conditions as longitudinal trends for multiple (at least 2-3) weeks that may be the one way to get something useful from the measurements. Data for overnight sleep with minimal motion and using RMSSD is the best proxy for real HRV. The reason to look at trends rather than any given night is that it more likely represents something, even though you won’t know with certainty what the “it” is. Keep in mind there are no data, no peer-reviewed evidence, to show that HRV fluctuation in-person has any correlation with health outcomes. Share Readiness Scores These are proprietary scores that integrate different metrics for each of the wearables: no algorithms have been disclosed. They are unvalidated against health outcomes. In a review of 14 composite health scores of readiness and recovery, HRV contributed 86% to the scores, followed by reading heart rate (79%), physical activity and sleep duration (both at 71%). That review noted the substantial variability in measurement protools and lack of standardization. Sleep staging is notoriously inconsistent and inaccurate by these sensors, which adds further to the HRV uncertainties for what the scores, which use sleep stage data, mean. Only resting heart rate has been shown consistently across devices to be extremely accurate. I’ve made a Table to summarize what we know about which metrics are included, the scores, any peer-reviewed studies that compared the readiness score with health outcomes, and the corresponding (if any, NA-not available) citation. You will note that some companies do not use the term “readiness," such as WHOOP for recovery, and Garmin, which has 2 different scores, one of which is Body Battery. Eight Sleep uses the term “Fitness Score.” They all include HRV; Apple includes a new metric they call “Recovery HRV” which among other components uses 7-days of sleep, but it is unclear what this means or how it is differentiated from other scores (there are clearly no data for outcomes). We have no knowledge of how the different components are weighted or whether any of these scores are better than resting heart rate, HRV alone, physical activity, or any other single metric. Since none of these are standardized, they are not interchangeable, so if you get a 90 for Oura that has no relationship to a 90 on a Google Fitbit Air. Notably, the company can update its algorithm for readiness score at any point without notification to device users. Without any useful evidence of actionability for these scores or established relationship with health outcomes, it is hard to make a case for their value. At the Apple recent announcement they showed their Readiness score (0-10) on the watch (Figure below) but there are no published data on this score, not even on their website. It’s available only on their new Watch Series 12 or Ultra 4 [of course, ;-)]. That exemplifies the problems with these scores, lack of data and evidence for being meaningful to promote health. Perhaps the best study (which isn’t saying much) is the WHOOP Recovery for golfer performance, because it did correlate with an objective outcome, even though there was no control group and the authors were all from the company. Among the 389 pro golfers, an absolute 10-per cent point increase in Recovery score was associated with about 0.5 fewer strokes per round. But that’s hardly a health outcome! WHOOP is also conducting a study in over 2,700 runners to see if their recovery score will be linked to less injuries and improved performance, but that is not yet published and has no control group or randomization. Putting This in Context For two decades I’ve been enthusiastic about the potential for digital health and particularly wearable biosensors. Over the years, we’ve seen some great progress for their ability to promote physical activity and accurately detect atrial fibrillation (the first FDA cleared deep learning AI for consumers). That work was the subject of rigorous research. But there are holes in the data and evidence for other metrics. One notable one is the “VO2 max” story that I wrote about earlier this year. At that time many subscribers asked me to cover heart rate variability, which I finally got to here. When I dived into the research and publication for HRV and readiness scores, I expected to find at least some that were of high quality and demonstrated their utility by linkage to health outcomes. To my surprise, I found none. The wearable sensor measurements for HRV (PRV) are, for the most part, accurate, but that validation work has only been done in small studies of healthy adults and does not take into account the long list of factors, from the device, software side, and the user side, that affect HRV measurements. Moreover, this metric chiefly relies on optical sensing and, as we have learned for heart rate PPG sensing, may be less accurate in people of color. Keep in mind that all of the health outcome association evidence comes from ECG-derived HRV; none are from wearable sensor data. I will repeat the key point: there's no peer-reviewed evidence to show that in-person HRV fluctuation—or efforts to raise your HRV— has any correlation with health outcomes. For those of you who look at your HRV on awakening, or even 2+ week trends of it being low, I hope this context helps to relieve any anxiety. Yes, low HRV (not PRV) has been shown to increase risk of some diseases as summarized above. But efforts to raise your HRV—a surrogate metric— has not been established for improving any health outcomes. HRV does not have any evidence of causality (the genetic evidence actually goes against this possibility). In this summary, I have not included data for other wearable sensors such as Polar, Samsung, Withings, Suunto, Amazfit, Coros, Ultrahuman, or additional mattress sensors. These are beyond my first-hand experience, and as far as I know from my in-depth review none have any peer-reviewed published data that differ from the 6 sensors I’ve reviewed here. From the points I’ve gone over above, we’re not ready for readiness scores. Besides being proprietary, they are predominantly based on metrics that have their own issues. It’s compounding the problem, like building a house without a solid foundation that has never undergone a rigorous inspection, and then selling it. Like I mentioned for PRV, you can look at trends over weeks rather than any single day, to get a handle, but even that may not be helpful. There’s simply no evidence that these scores meaningfully relate to health outcomes. I’d emphasize they might, but that requires doing prospective or randomized studies to prove it. None exist. There’s great promise for HRV/PRV utility_. For example**,**_ Prof Maiken Nedergaard, who discovered the brain glymphatics that are essential in eliminating metabolic waste products from the brain during sleep, has posited that HRV could be a non-invasive marker for neuromodulator oscillations, brain-body regulatory circuits, and brain clearance. That would be extremely useful, but like everything else on HRV and readiness scores it requires solid research and validation. The lay media isn’t helping much to get the story straight. Earlier this year The Economist published a piece entitled “The most useful indicator of your overall health” which ordained HRV as an “accumulated stress score.” That’s akin to the false assertion about VO2max: “V02 max is the singular most powerful marker for longevity.” As I’ve summarized here, that is not established. The fact is that so many things can lower HRV, including physical exercise (especially an intense workout), reduced sleep quality, stress, the list above, no less the device, signal, and software. Whatever fluctuations observed have not been correlated with any health outcome. Sadly, “datamaxxers” are widely using HRV and readiness scores that have never been validated to mean anything. We already know that for some people using the sensors for sleep metrics, it can induce “orthosomnia,” an obsession to get high sleep quality, with associated high levels of anxiety. In an experiment done by a company to promote sleep quality for its employees, “For those employees who did use the trackers, many reported feeling perfectly rested until their tracker told them they had had a terrible night. Others were told that they had slept like a baby when they had actually been lying awake worrying about the quality of their sleep. “ The same problem can result from preoccupation with HRV or readiness scores, with anxiety that would lead to further reduction in both. It you are using a wearable like >100 million American adults, it’s OK to look at these data, but contextualized with the major caveats reviewed here. If you are one to require evidence that HRV or readiness scores are linked to health outcomes, you may not even want to look. The companies make it hard to turn them off! Let me end with the companies that make and sell wearables. Apple’s doubling down on HRV (24-fold more reporting and heart rate very 5 seconds) and introduction of a Readiness score tells us that consumers have bought into these metrics and they are joining the club. However, all of this is occurring with a backdrop of tens millions of users, claims about the data that are not backed up by adequate evidence, marketing way out in front of whatever limited data exists, and not being transparent about their readiness score algorithms. The companies can well afford to do the research that is needed to connect these metrics with health outcomes show, once and for all, that increasing HRV or using readiness scores promotes our health. If they believed and invested in the products they are selling, we’d not be in this position of not knowing. That’s essentially where we are with HRV and readiness scores. Perhaps someday this will change and we’ll have good reason to embrace them. NB: I wrote this post. No AI. I have no conflicts of interest with any of its content. Loading... Ground Truths has 215,000 subscribers from every US state and 214 countries. There are over 300,000 followers of Ground Truths so more than 90,000 folks who can easily convert to be free subscribers. Your subscription to these free essays and podcasts makes my work in putting them together worthwhile. If you’re not a subscriber, please join! If you found this interesting PLEASE share it! Share Ground Truths The proceeds from all voluntary paid subscriptions go to support our summer internship program. It enabled us to accept and support a record number of 62 summer interns that joined us in 2026! These are high school, college and medical students selected from thousands of applicants. We couldn’t do this expanded program without the funds coming in through Ground Truths. Thank you!
Top Stories: iOS 27 and macOS Golden Gate Out Now, Siri AI Waitlist, and More
All of Apple's products introduced at last week's event with the exception of the iPhone Duo are now available, with the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, and AirPods 5 all launching on Friday. While new hardware is always a welcome arrival, users of existing hardware also got big upgrades this week with the releases of iOS 27, macOS Golden Gate and more.
The Quantified Scientist tests the Apple Watch Series 12’s heart rate sensor
In a new video, The Quantified Scientist’s Rob ter Horst compares the new Apple Watch Series 12’s heart rate sensor against a Polar H10 ECG chest strap.
Hands-On With the Apple Watch Series 12
The Apple Watch Series 12 came out today, and we picked one up to get a look at the new feature set. There are no major external changes, but Apple updated the device's internals and health sensors. Subscribe to the MacRumors YouTube channel for more videos. The Apple Watch Series 12 has the same design as the Series 11, but it does come in different colors.
Apple Watch Series 12 vs. Ultra 4 Buyer's Guide
The Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 bring new health sensors, a new chip, and more detailed recovery insights to Apple's smartwatch lineup, so how do they compare? Both models feature the S11 chip, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and the new Health Sensing System, which measures heart rate every five seconds throughout the day.
Screenless Wearables Forecast a Minimalist Health-Tracking Future
Popular alternatives to the Apple Watch, Galaxy Watch, and Pixel Watch are a sign of wearables reaching a new level of maturity and acceptance.
First iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4 and AirPods 5 Orders Arriving to...
It's Friday, September 18 in Australia and New Zealand, which means customers who pre-ordered are beginning to receive their new devices. The iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4, and AirPods 5 are launching today. Apple fans who ordered an iPhone, Apple Watch, or AirPods will soon be sharing first impressions on Instagram, Reddit, the MacRumors forums, and other social networks.
Hands-On: The Apple Watch Series 12 And Ultra 4
Spending some time with this year's newest releases, and a look into what's coming up for Apple Watch.
New iPhone 18 Pro Models Will Have Day One Update
Customers receiving an iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, an Apple Watch Series 12, or an Apple Watch Ultra 4 tomorrow will need to install a software update right away. The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max ship with iOS 27 variants with a 24A427 or 24A8428 version number. The launch version of iOS 27 is version 24A437, so if you're getting an iPhone 18 Pro, expect a software update during the setup process.
The Apple Watch Series 12 is the start of a new wearable era
Looks like the same watch, but Apple has big plans.
Broadband access predicts health tracker use, UWM research suggests
As Fitbits, Apple watches and Oura Rings grow ubiquitous, UWM research suggests digital inequity doesn't allow them to reach those who could benefit most.
PSA: watchOS 27 Removes This Useful Feature From Your Apple Watch
Apple released watchOS 27 on September 14, bringing a new Audio Intelligence feature set to its latest Apple Watch models, but as a result, owners of previous models are set to lose out doubly in the process. Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 models later this year will get Live Rewind, a feature that provides a transcript of any spoken audio that was picked up by the device in the last 15 seconds. To activate the feature, users need to double-click the Digital Crown.
How to turn off the new 'always listening' feature on Apple Watches
The new Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra are capable of listening, recalling and summarizing various sounds and conversations.
iOS 27.2 Beta Previews New Apple Intelligence Health App
The first beta of iOS 27.2 includes Apple's redesigned Health app, giving developers a chance to try out the features ahead of launch later this year. Apple's developer notes for the feature say the Health app is being tested in this beta, but it won't be in the launch version of iOS 27.2. It will instead come later in the year. The Health app will incorporate Apple Intelligence to turn data and metrics collected by the Apple Watch into personalized guidance.
iOS 27.2 Beta Previews New Apple Intelligence Health App
The first beta of iOS 27.2 includes Apple's redesigned Health app, giving developers a chance to try out the features ahead of launch later this year. Apple's developer notes for the feature say the Health app is being tested in this beta, but it won't be in the launch version of iOS 27.2. It will instead come later in the year. The Health app will incorporate Apple Intelligence to turn data and metrics collected by the Apple Watch into personalized guidance.
Here's Why a New Apple Watch Charging Puck Was Just Released
The new Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 have hardware changes that allow for faster charging, but you will need to use the new version of the Apple Watch Magnetic Fast Charger included in the box in order to achieve this boost. If you need extra ones for your own charging stands or travel or so forth, Apple released the new version of the charger on its online store last week, with U.S. pricing set at $29.
Apple Watch Series 12 has subtle design change that Apple didn’t mention
Apple Watch Series 12 has a subtle design change that Apple didn’t mention in its announcement: larger bezels around the display.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. Ultra 4 Buyer's Guide
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is now available for pre-order, bringing a new health sensing system, more memory, and longer battery life over its predecessor. Here's everything that's new. Last year, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 introduced a larger, more efficient display, satellite connectivity, 5G, and improved battery life.
Why watchOS 27 removes the useful multitasking feature on Apple Watch
watchOS 27 removes a useful multitasking shortcut from Apple Watch. While we don’t know if it will make a return,...
Apple Watch adds an all-new Readiness app, here's how it works
Apple Watch is gaining an all-new health-related app called Readiness. Here’s what you need to know about Apple’s new fitness-focused...
Apple Watch Pre-Order Discounts Expand With Up to $20 In Savings
Apple began pre-orders for its new Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 last week, and today it's introduced a few more early discounts on these models. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
New Apple Watch features may require new legal precedent for privacy
Two new Apple Watch features may see the device running up against privacy laws in multiple US states. That’s because...
watchOS 27 now available for Apple Watch, here’s what’s new
Apple has released its next major update for Apple Watch users: watchOS 27 is rolling out now. Here’s what’s new.
Apple Releases watchOS 27 With Siri AI, New Watch Face, Smart Stack Improvements and More
Apple today released watchOS 27, the newest version of the operating system that runs on the Apple Watch. watchOS 27 is compatible with the Apple Watch Series 9 and later, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later, and the Apple Watch SE 3. watchOS 27 can be downloaded for free on a compatible device through the Settings app on the watch. The update introduces support for Siri AI, a more capable version of Siri that uses personal context and onscreen awareness to help you get things done.
Apple’s always-listening watch features test eavesdropping laws
Apple Inc.'s new always-listening artificial intelligence features for the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 could put eavesdropping laws to the test, according to legal experts.
Apple Health Chief Knows the Health App Needs Work
WSJ’s Nicole Nguyen sits down with Apple’s VP of Health to discuss the company’s recently announced Apple Watches with more advanced sensors and a major overhaul of its Health app.
Apple Watch Audio Intelligence: 4 New Features Available On The Series 12 And Ultra 4
Apple Watch's Audio Intelligence is getting a significant number of new features for the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 aimed at making your life easier.
Apple Watch Series 12 vs. Apple Watch Series 11: Is it Worth Upgrading?
This year's new Apple Watch is impressive, but does it improve enough on last year's?
Apple Watch Series 12 vs Series 11: Here’s everything new
Apple Watch Series 12 improves many of the core components that power watchOS, here’s everything new in Apple Watch Series 12 vs Series 11.
Apple Watch Ultra 4 vs Ultra 3: Here’s everything new
Apple Watch Ultra 4 might look just like Ultra 3, but it packs big internal upgrades. Here’s everything new in Apple Watch Ultra 4 vs 3.
Apple Watch Series 12 vs. 11: Everything that changed (and didn't)
Welcome back, ceramic cases!
You Can't Use Apple Watch's Live Rewind Secretly, Apple Says
With the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, Apple is adding Live Rewind, which relies on an S11 processor and new continual listening features. Live Rewind listens to what's happening around the wearer, and when activated with a double press on the Digital Crown, offers a transcript of what was said in the last 15 seconds. Apple says the feature will let users catch something they missed or are less familiar with.
Upgrading to Apple Watch Series 12 Could Cost You Hypertension Notifications
Some Apple Watch users who upgrade to the Series 12 or the Ultra 4 might temporarily lose access to hypertension notifications. On the watchOS feature availability page, Apple says notifications might not be available on the Series 12 or Ultra 4 at launch because regulatory clearances are in process. Hypertension Notifications may not be available on Apple Watch Series 12 or Ultra 4 in your region, as additional regulatory clearances for these devices are in process.
iOS 27 Apple Health App Redesign: Every New Feature Coming in 2026
Apple is planning a major redesign of the Health app on iPhone and iPad, with a long list of new features set to be added. Apple announced the Health app changes at yesterday's iPhone event. The Health app is getting an update because Apple overhauled the sensors in the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4.
Apple Watch Series 12 Ushers in New Health Sensing System, Oura-Like Readiness Score
Starts at $399
Apple Watch Ultra 4 Hands-On: A Closer Look at Its Biggest Upgrades
Finally a battery worthy of an ultra marathon, better health sensors and a powerful processor that keeps it running.
Apple Watch Series 12 Has Smaller Screens and Bigger Cases
The Apple Watch Series 12 pairs a smaller display with a wider case than Series 10 and Series 11, even though the pixel resolution hasn't changed, according to Apple's own tech specs. For the 46mm Series 12, Apple's tech specs page lists the display area at 1,196 sq mm, down 2% from 1,220 sq mm on Series 10 and Series 11. The 42mm size shows a similar 1.9% drop, from 989 sq mm to 970 sq mm.
AirPods 5 and Apple Watch Series 12 Pre-Orders Open on Amazon, With Early Discount
Apple yesterday announced the Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4, and AirPods 5 at its "Surprise and Shine" event, and today all of these devices are up for pre-order on Amazon. This also includes the first cash discount on the Apple Watch Series 12. >Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Series 12 have surprise upgrade that wasn’t announced
Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 are here, and new findings reveal they each have a surprise upgrade not mentioned by Apple.
Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 Have Increased RAM Without Price Increase
MacRumors has confirmed that the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 have increased RAM compared to the previous-generation models. Both new models are equipped with 4GB of RAM, according to Apple's developer tool Xcode 27. Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3 models are equipped with 2GB of RAM, so the Series 12 and Ultra 4 have twice as much memory.
Apple Watch Series 12 Hands-On: New Sensing System, Health Features And Audio Intelligence
There was a lot more new stuff than expected.
Apple Watch Series 12 hands-on: What's new?
The Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 bring new health sensors, smarter features and a closer look at what's changed.
The new Apple Watch listening features feel weird
The Apple Watch's new Live Rewind and Siri Recap listening features usher in a strange new world of audio surveillance.
Apple announcement recap: new foldable iPhone, Watch, and AirPods
Apple's new CEO, John Ternus, unveiled the next generation of iPhones, Apple Watches, and AirPods during Wednesday's Surprise and Shine event.
Three All-New 'Audio Intelligence' Features Arrive With Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4
Apple today announced "Audio Intelligence," a new suite of Apple Intelligence-powered features for the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 that use the built-in microphone to help users catch missed moments in conversation and stay aware of important sounds.
If Meta Glasses Freak You Out, Wait Until You Hear About the New Apple Watch Features
Live Rewind and Siri Recap just killed the dreams of always on AI wearables.
Everything Apple announced at its fall iPhone event, from the foldable iPhone Duo to an always-listening Apple Watch
The main event was the tech giant's highly anticipated first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo.
Apple's Fine Print: Daily Usage Limits for Siri AI, 'Expanded Access' Coming for a Fee
Apple today confirmed that there will be a daily usage limit for Siri AI, with expanded access available for a fee in the future. In the fine print of Apple's announcement of the Health Sensing features coming to the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4, Apple says it will have usage limits on Siri AI, intelligent photo editing tools, Image Playground, and Apple Foundation Cloud models in the Shortcuts app.
Pixel 11 Pro vs. iPhone 18 Pro: Which to Buy?
Apple shared its new hardware line-up for the end of 2026 today, revealing the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, iPhone Duo, new Apple Watch models, and some new AirPods. For those who missed the event and don’t want to re-watch, yet still want to see how the new iPhone 18 Pro compares to...
Apple announces first-ever foldable iPhone, starting at $1,999
The screen will be compatible with the iPhone Pencil, currently available only for iPad users, and can also be unlocked with Apple Watch, according to Apple.
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 Is an Even Better Heart Health Companion
Apple's high-end smartwatch also comes with the new internals of the Apple Watch Series 12 and even longer battery life.
Apple Watch Ultra 4 Comes With Better Battery And Upgraded Health Tracking
The Watch Ultra 4 isn't a major redesign, but does come with some notable improvements.
watchOS 27 upgrade coming to Apple Watch this month
watchOS 27 is coming this month, and now we have an official release date. Apple says we can expect the...
The Apple Watch Series 12 Will Track More Than Just Health Data
Even with a return of ceramic frames, the most important new features for Series 12 are all built around health and conversation tracking.
New Apple Watch Series 12 highlights: improved health sensing system, Readiness app
In an update with few visible changes to the Apple Watch Series 12, in conjunction with watchOS 27, the new model has a new health app called Readiness, and a series of new health monitoring features.
Apple Announces iOS 27 Release Date
At its event today unveiling the iPhone 18 Pro, AirPods 5, Apple Watch Series 12, and more, Apple announced that iOS 27 will be released later this month. iOS 27 has already been available as a developer beta since June and as a public beta since July, and Apple today said that the update will be released for all users with a compatible iPhone model on Monday, September 14.
Apple Watch Series 12 announced: Features, price, release date
Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 are official. Apple has announced its two new Apple Watch models...
Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4: Price, Specs, Release Date
Apple’s latest smartwatches—the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, get a faster chip, expanded health tracking, and new capabilities made possible by a newly enhanced Siri.
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is ready for the new Siri
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is ready for your next adventure.
Apple Announces Apple Watch Series 12 With S11 Chip, Upgraded Health Sensors and Ceramic Models
Apple today announced the Apple Watch Ultra 4, featuring a new S11 chip, a redesigned health sensing system, and a larger battery that Apple says delivers two days of battery life. With improved power efficiency, Ultra 4 offers up to 18 hours of workout tracking with full GPS and heart rate monitoring, or 45 hours in its maximum extended workout mode. It comes in Black and Natural titanium, alongside new band colors and a new titanium Hermès band.
The new Apple Watch will use microphone and other sensors to generate AI recaps of your day
Apple will announce the new Apple Watch lineup later today, and Mark Gurman at Bloomberg has the early scoop. He...
The science of sleep trackers on smart watches
In this segment, scientists are issuing a caution about sleep trackers featured on devices like Apple Watch.