Alongside iOS 16.2, iPadOS 16.2, and macOS Ventura 13.1, Apple also dropped watchOS 9.2 for all compatible Apple Watch models. Besides packing several new features, the update improves the Apple Watch Ultra’s battery life.
Interestingly, Apple does not mention this improvement in the watchOS 9.2’s release notes.
Apple Watch Ultra will now last longer while tracking Multisport workouts
With Low Power mode and Multisport workout tracking enabled, the Apple Watch Ultra can provide up to 17 hours of continuous usage on watchOS 9.2. This should be good enough to use the smartwatch for tracking a marathon or a triathlon.
A tidbit with watchOS 9.2, with low-power mode engaged on Apple Watch Ultra it can get up to 17 hours of use with a multisport workout going. And yes, that should be plenty for a marathon and even a triathlon. 9.2 is rolling out now, along with iOS and iPadOS 16.1
— Jake Krol (@Jake31Krol) December 13, 2022
Low Power Mode will disable certain features and sensors on your Apple Watch Ultra. This includes Always-On Display, automatic workout detection and heart health notifications. None of this will affect your workout metrics tracking, though.
Apart from battery life improvements, watchOS 9.2 introduces a custom Kickboxing algorithm for more accurate health metrics on all compatible Apple Watch models. A new Race Route feature will let you compete against your previous performance in Outdoor Run, Outdoor Cycle and Outdoor Wheelchair workouts.
Apple Watch Ultra packs a big battery
Teardowns have revealed the Apple Watch Ultra packs a 76% bigger battery than the Series 8. Thanks to this, the smartwatch provides a claimed 36-hour battery life or hours of GPS-based sports tracking. The battery life can be extended to 60 hours using the Low Power mode, which debuted in watchOS 9.1. And with watchOS 9.2, Apple is improving the wearable’s battery life further.
The Apple Watch Ultra competes with offerings from Garmin, which can last multiple days on a single charge. While Apple’s smartwatch can’t beat them in the battery life department, the company has been working on improving this aspect of its wearable.
