THE LATEST GEAR - TESTED BY EXPERTS
APPLE WATCH ULTRA 2
£799Coming hot on the heels of version 1, what’s new here?
Little time has passed since we tested the Apple Watch Ultra 1. So, what are the major changes with this second-incarnation Ultra?
Well, the hardware’s near identical. Like its predecessor, it’s also constructed from predominantly recycled titanium. However, with a new range of straps, the Ultra 2 comes in case-and-strap combos that are carbon neutral.
The changes lies beneath with the major adaptation for triathletes concerning cycling where Apple has added power connectivity. It seamlessly connected to a KickR Bike Shift via Bluetooth and never cut out, delivering useful data like wattage, cadence and speed. Over time, it also estimates your FTP (functional threshold of power). It’s useful albeit not as accurate as a standard 20min FTP test. For real tech-heads, though, it doesn’t dig deeper into features like pedalling smoothness.
The Ultra 2 also features a screen-mirror option where you can project your watch’s dashboard onto your iPhone, thus morphing it into a bike computer. The same control set-up as the Ultra 1 (a hearty dial crown and two buttons) means it’s easily used with gloves, while the touchscreen is the best in the business.
You can access topographic maps for navigational purposes, too. Well, you can access maps for the USA by the end of the year. Maps beyond the USA is TBC. Also, your phone must be with you, which isn’t ideal.
Arguably, the greatest marketing hit of the Ultra 2 is the ‘Double Tap’ feature where you tap together your thumb and finger to control the watch. It’s useful for stopping and starting workouts with gloves on, though currently its main use is answering phone calls – we expect they are laying the tech foundations with more to come soon. Further key advances are the upgrade to an SP chipset, which results in even faster and smoother changes between features, and a crisp 3,000 nit display.
Battery life’s improved, too. Everyday smartwatch use comes in at 36hrs while low power mode is around 72hrs. You could make an Ironman 17hr cut-off with the Ultra 2 but only just. So, chapeau but this still lags behind the premium multisport-specific efforts of its rivals.
Heart-rate accuracy is impressive; it can switch neatly between disciplines; it’s strong in the swim, both pool and open water; and comes with host of run metrics that even includes ground contact time.
Should you buy it? If y
