Watch · Apple Silicon · 2026
Apple Watch Series 12
Series 12 makes health sensing the headline. New optical and electrical sensors sample heart rate more frequently, feed a daily readiness score, and join the S11 chip, Audio Intelligence, 24-hour battery life, and ceramic finishes.
Introduced Apple’s Health Sensing System, readiness score, all-day five-second heart-rate sampling, and ceramic case options.
Apple Watch Ultra 4 (2026)
Apple Watch Series 12: key facts
When was the Apple Watch Series 12 released?
The Apple Watch Series 12 arrived on September 18, 2026.
How much did the Apple Watch Series 12 cost?
The Apple Watch Series 12 launched at $399 in 2026, about $403 in today’s money (approximate, US CPI).
What specs stand out?
Key specs: Apple S11 SiP, 64 GB storage, 42 mm or 46 mm LTPO3 always-on OLED, 2000 nits display, Magnetic fast charging.
Why does the Apple Watch Series 12 matter?
Introduced Apple’s Health Sensing System, readiness score, all-day five-second heart-rate sampling, and ceramic case options.
Full specifications
| CPU | Apple S11 SiP |
|---|---|
| Cores | 2 |
| Memory (RAM) | — |
| Storage | 64 GB |
| Display | 42 mm or 46 mm LTPO3 always-on OLED, 2000 nits |
| GPU | Integrated |
| Ports | Magnetic fast charging |
| Weight | From 31.5 g |
| Dimensions | 42 mm or 46 mm case |
| Operating system | watchOS 27 |
| Released | September 18, 2026 |
| Discontinued | — |
| Launch price | $399 |
How the Apple Watch Series 12 compares to today
This held about 16,400 modern phone photos, a respectable library even today.
Launched at $399 in 2026, about $403 in today’s money (approx., US CPI).
Method note: clock comparisons use frequency only; price conversions use US CPI.
Sources
Specs checked against Apple Watch Series 12 announcement, Apple Watch Series 12 technical specifications, Apple technical specifications archive, EveryMac, Mactracker, Wikimedia Commons image credits.
Did you know?
The ceramic Apple Watch returns in pearl white and night blue alongside aluminum and titanium models.
Related Watch models
Open the Apple Watch Series 12 in the interactive archive →
Last updated: 2026-09-11