Apple Watch Ultra 4 Leak: Touch ID in Action Button, 15% Thinner Design, September Launch Expected

A growing body of leaks points to the Apple Watch Ultra 4 as a major upgrade over the current model, with Touch ID fingerprint authentication now the headline feature. Code references to Apple's internal "AppleMesa" Touch ID project have been found in watchOS beta builds, and supply chain sources are filling in the design details.

What's Leaked So Far

• Touch ID: Fingerprint sensor embedded in the Action Button for unlocking, Apple Pay, and app authentication — the first biometric unlock on any Apple Watch
• Thinner design: 10–15% slimmer case compared to Ultra 3, enabled by new chip packaging
• Doubled sensors: Supply chain sources say Ultra 4 will have twice the sensor components of the current model
• Battery efficiency: "Significant" power efficiency improvements from the new S-class chip
• Expected price: Starting at $799, potentially rising to $899 with all rumored upgrades
• Launch: Alongside iPhone 18 in mid-September 2026

How It Compares to Current Options

The current Apple Watch Ultra 3 is available at $610 on Amazon — a 24% discount from list price. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra sits at $639, and the Apple Watch Series 11 is at $259 — the lowest price in its history.

What This Means for Buyers

If you're eyeing an Apple Watch Ultra, the decision comes down to timing. Ultra 3 at $610 is an excellent deal right now — 24% off — and Touch ID, while exciting, won't change the core fitness and health tracking experience. But if biometric security matters to you (especially for Apple Pay), waiting until September is worth considering. For non-Apple users, the Pixel Watch 3 at $247 remains the best Android smartwatch value. See all watches in our smartwatch comparison.