Apple watch ultra satellite

Apple is set to elevate its Apple Watch Ultra with satellite connectivity in 2025, allowing off-grid messaging without a phone. The feature, leveraging its partnership with Globalstar, builds on Apple's satellite innovations first introduced with the iPhone 14. Shares of Globalstar jumped 15% on the news.

Apple is also working on a blood-pressure monitoring feature for its watches, which may also arrive in 2025. Unlike traditional monitors, it will notify users of potential hypertension without providing detailed readings. This adds to Apple's focus on health tech, complementing efforts like its noninvasive glucose tracker which is still in development.

With these innovations, Apple continues to push its premium Ultra model at $799, distinguishing it from budget options like the Watch SE ($249) and Series 10 ($399). These advancements reflect Apple's strategy to stay ahead of competitors like Samsung, whose health features have faced scrutiny over accuracy.