Apple Watch Series 8: Australian specs, price and release date

Apple is looking to set a new standard in the smartwatch space, so find out what you need to know about the Apple Watch Series 8.

Apple Watch Series 8

Pre-order Apple's latest wearable from $628 from Mobileciti. That's cheaper than what you'll pay at the Apple Store.

As was widely expected, last night's Apple Far Out event saw the reveal not only of the iPhone 14, but the Apple Watch Series 8. Additionally, 2 other wearables, the Apple Watch SE and the Apple Watch Ultra will be joining the Apple family.

Here's what you need to know regarding the new Apple Watches' specs, price and release date.

Apple Watch Series 8 Australian availability

The Apple Watch Series 8 is available for pre-order from the Apple Store right now, with availability commencing 16 September.

You can also pre-order the more affordable Apple Watch SE which will become available on the same date.

Finally, the rugged, premium Apple Watch Ultra can also be purchased right now, but you'll have to wait a little longer to get your hands on this device. Its availability will commence 23 September.

Apple Watch Series 8 Australian price

With its new generation of wearables, Apple seems keen to cater for just about every price point. Price tags vary based on case size and optional cellular functionality.

The Apple Watch Series 8's various editions cost:

• 41mm GPS edition: $629

• 45mm GPS edition: $679

• 41mm GPS + cellular edition: $789

• 45mm GPS + cellular edition: $839

The Apple Watch SE's varieties cost:

• 40mm GPS edition: $399

• 44mm GPS edition: $449

• 41mm GPS + cellular edition: $479

• 45mm GPS + cellular edition: $229

Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Ultra will set you back a whopping $1,299. All versions of the watch feature a 49mm case and GPS and cellular functionality.

Apple Watch Series 8 design

As usual, Apple hasn't reinvented the wheel with the Apple Watch 8. Image: Supplied

The leakers were accurate when it comes to the design of the Series 8. It is very reminiscent of previous generations, with a slightly curvier chassis.

Meanwhile, the new Apple Watch SE is very similar in design to the Series 4. Its display is 30% larger than the original Apple Watch SE.

The Apple Watch Ultra's 49mm case size makes it the largest Apple wearable to date, while its flat display and edges distinguishes it from other Apple Watches.

A larger button with pronounced grooves features, which will supposedly be easy to use while wearing gloves. It comes with 3 styles of band – Alpine, Ocean and Trail – each of which is optimised for the titular setting.

The Apple Watch Ultra is all about durability, with a titanium case and a sapphire crystal glass display. It's twice as waterproof as the regular Apple Watch.

Low power mode

As expected, Apple has expanded low power mode with the Series 8. On previous iterations, low power mode severely hampered the watch's use.

On the Series 8, low power mode will simply disable the most draining functions, such as the always-on display. While in the mode, the Series 8's battery life will extend from 18 to 36 hours, according to Apple.

This battery outlook is shared by the Apple Watch SE. Apple claims the Ultra can be used for 36 hours in normal mode, and 60 hours in low power mode.

Apple Watch Series 8 features

All the Apple Watch's greatest hits are returning. Image: Supplied

The Apple Watch Series 8 will feature a body temperature sensor, which will be used for detecting fevers and can even be used to assist in fertility planning.

The watch will feature crash detection, utilising new motion sensing technology. Following the crash, the watch will automatically call emergency services and notify your emergency contacts.

Sleep tracking has been expanded, as the Apple Watch Series 8 can track your overnight cycles such as REM sleep.

The Apple Watch SE will boast many of the same functions as its baseline cousin, but will be missing some bells and whistles such as blood oxygen tracking and the always-on display.

The Apple Watch Ultra is designed to appeal to more extreme athletes and has the features to back it up. A second speaker system and superior microphones will make for smoother calls in windy conditions.

The Ultra also features an emergency siren and superior GPS and compass functionality. An orange "action" button will control a variety of features including compass waypoints and dive tracking.

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