A recent evaluation by data scientist Rob ter Horst from the University of Vienna reveals that the Apple Watch Ultra 2 surpasses competitors such as Garmin, Samsung, and Whoop in heart rate accuracy. Utilizing the watchOS 26 public beta, ter Horst conducted a series of tests comparing the Ultra 2 against multiple fitness trackers and a Polar H10 chest strap, which he designated as the control device.
During the assessment, ter Horst focused on heart rate monitoring while conducting indoor running workouts. The results indicated that the Apple Watch Ultra 2 closely aligned with the Polar H10, showcasing minimal deviations. Notably, the Ultra 2 outperformed the Whoop MG, a device branded as “Medical Grade,” which exhibited a deviation of approximately 6% from the Polar H10. In comparison, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 deviated by 3%, while the Garmin Forerunner 570 and Garmin Fenix 7 deviated by 7% and 9%, respectively.
Comprehensive Health Tracking Performance
The Apple Watch Ultra 2’s capabilities extend beyond heart rate monitoring. According to ter Horst’s findings, the device demonstrated about 73% accuracy in tracking REM and deep sleep, and 86.5% accuracy for light sleep compared to the control device, the Hypnodyne ZMax. This performance positions the Ultra 2 ahead of competitors like the Oura Gen 4 ring, while other brands, including Samsung and Garmin, fell short in this area.
These results highlight the Apple Watch Ultra 2’s strong performance metrics, particularly for users seeking precise health and fitness tracking. The device has consistently shown reliable data, especially in high-demand scenarios like cycling and outdoor runs, where it matched Polar H10 results closely. In contrast, the Whoop MG deviated by 15% and the Garmin Forerunner 570 by 12%.
Future Prospects and Challenges
Looking ahead, speculation about the next iteration of the Apple Watch, potentially named the Ultra 3, is already circulating. Expected to be unveiled at Apple’s upcoming device launch event in early November 2023, the new model is rumored to feature an enhanced display, 5G connectivity, and the addition of high blood pressure detection, enriching its health and fitness capabilities.
Despite its advancements, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 continues to face challenges, particularly regarding battery life. Current models have been criticized for their inability to last as long as some competitors, which can operate for weeks on a single charge. As Apple prepares for the next release, there is hope that improvements in energy efficiency will be part of their strategy, allowing the Ultra series to maintain its edge in health tracking technology.
In summary, the findings from ter Horst’s analysis position the Apple Watch Ultra 2 as a leading contender in the fitness tracker market, particularly for heart rate accuracy and overall health monitoring. With anticipated upgrades and continued improvements, Apple aims to solidify its reputation in the competitive landscape of wearable technology.
