Apple unveiled the iPhone 17 series, along with the next-generation AirPods Pro and Apple Watch Series 11, at its product launch event at Apple Park in Cupertino, California, on the 9th (local time). Apple drew attention by releasing new AirPods Pro for the first time in three years since 2022. The Apple Watch added a blood pressure feature and upgraded its sleep management.
The new Apple Watch introduces high blood pressure alerts and a sleep score feature. Apple said, "The secret to Apple Watch becoming the most popular watch in the world is that its advanced sensing technology helps users understand their health simply by wearing it."
Apple Watch 11 analyzes vascular response data over 30 days through its optical heart rate sensor and machine-learning algorithms, then sends a warning to the user if signs of hypertension appear. Apple said it expects the feature could warn more than 1 million potential patients in its first year. Approval from the U.S. FDA and other major regulators in Europe is expected to be completed within this month.
A sleep score feature was also introduced. Apple Watch 11 aggregates heart rate, oxygen saturation, and sleep stages to quantify sleep quality and provide a score. An algorithm reflecting the latest guidelines from the National Sleep Foundation and the World Sleep Society, as well as research data from more than 5 million nights, was applied.
Battery performance and durability were also strengthened. The battery lasts up to 24 hours, and a 15-minute charge provides up to 8 hours of use. The Ultra model lasts up to 42 hours, or up to 72 hours in low power mode. The aluminum model's scratch resistance is doubled with special ion-strengthened glass and a ceramic coating. The newly introduced 5G cellular feature supports fast downloads and stable currency. A redesigned antenna also improves signal reception.
It comes in two sizes, 42 mm and 46 mm, and is offered in space gray, jet black, rose gold, and silver aluminum, as well as natural, gold, and slate titanium. It will be available for purchase worldwide starting on the 19th, with prices in Korea starting at 590,000 won.
Apple also released its next-generation AirPods Pro for the first time in three years. AirPods Pro 3 features a newly designed multiport acoustic architecture and next-generation adaptive EQ. AirPods Pro 3 delivers clear low and high frequencies, and transparency mode is also improved. Noise canceling is upgraded by up to twice compared to the previous model and up to four times compared to the first generation.
A real-time translation feature was added as well, so when you talk while wearing AirPods Pro 3, the connected Apple Intelligence recognizes the other person's language and translates it. Apple noted that if everyone in the conversation is wearing AirPods Pro 3, they can also use a feature that translates the conversation in real time.
It is also notable that the AirPods lineup now includes health features. AirPods Pro 3 is equipped with the company's smallest heart rate sensor. A photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor emits infrared light 256 times per second to measure light absorption in the bloodstream. Combined with an accelerometer, gyroscope, and GPS, it records heart rate and calories burned.
Users can check more than 50 workout metrics in the iPhone Fitness app. They can complete activity rings and earn badges. They can also use the Apple Intelligence–based Workout Buddy feature with an iPhone.
AirPods Pro 3 will be available for purchase in the United States starting on the 19th. The domestic launch price starts at 369,000 won.