Apple Launches Watch Series 12 with AI Integration

Apple released the Apple Watch Series 12, a flagship smartwatch starting at $399 that integrates artificial intelligence and advanced health monitoring. The device is powered by the S11 chip, which includes a Secure Exclave designed to process audio data locally to enable Audio Intelligence capabilities.

While Sound Recognition and Music Recognition are available at launch, the company delayed the release of Siri Recap and Live Rewind until late 2026. Hardware improvements include a new ceramic case option and Ceramic Shield 2 glass for aluminum models. The watch also introduces a Health Sensing System that monitors heart rate every five seconds and a new Readiness app, although the app requires consistent overnight wear for full utility.

The device ships with watchOS 27, which features a conversational Siri AI and a dynamic app grid. These software updates are compatible with the Apple Watch Series 9 and newer, as well as specific Ultra and SE models.