Apple Watch Series 12 is available globally as of early October 2026, priced from $399 for the 41mm aluminum GPS model — matching the Series 11’s launch price despite inflationary pressure elsewhere in Apple’s lineup. The device was unveiled at Apple’s early-September ‘Surprise and Shine’ event alongside new iPhones and AirPods.
Macworld’s review, published October 6, confirms it ships with upgraded health sensors, a new AI-powered audio app, the S11 chip, improved fast charging, and new finish options, including Dark Bronze for aluminum and Radiant Gold for titanium. Ceramic models start at $899/£849 in Pearly White or Night Blue. Aluminum cases now use Ceramic Shield 2, which Apple says is 60 percent tougher than Ion-X glass.
Titanium and ceramic retain Sapphire crystal. More scratch-resistant but more vulnerable to impact damage. Screen resolution and dimensions remain identical to Series 11: no design overhaul this year. Storage is 64GB.
RAM is unofficially doubled to 4GB but unlisted by Apple. The S11 chip enables on-device AI processing, though Macworld notes that only the Series 12 gains full access to the new AI audio suite, and even then, two flagship features are delayed, with Apple giving no timeline or explanation. Battery life and charging speed are inconsistent across usage patterns, the review states.
Performance is generally smooth but punctuated by moments of sluggishness. And there’s a tangible build quirk: multiple reviewers detected a sharp, sudden edge where the display meets the bezel. Something Macworld describes as ‘very unusual’ for an Apple product, and absent on both the Series 11 and SE 3. The issue appeared on at least two separate review units.
Apple has not commented. No Apple Watch SE update accompanied the launch, leaving the Series 12 as Apple’s sole mid-tier offering, and its only new smartwatch for 2026.
MDFiled by The Mobile Desk
Phones from leak to launch to price cut: what was announced, what it costs where, and when it goes on sale. Indian launches and prices included, not appended.
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