The $799 price tag of an Apple Watch Ultra might seem steep. I felt the same way until I found that there was hidden potential in this device.
In fact, while the simple features impress users, the lesser-known capabilities make this investment worthwhile. My months of testing and hands-on experience revealed 25 game-changing Apple Watch Ultra tips that most users never find.
These features go beyond simple tricks. They change the Ultra from an expensive timepiece into an essential tool. You might own an Ultra and wonder about getting your money’s worth, or you might consider upgrading. Either way, these hidden features will definitely reshape your perspective on this premium smartwatch.
Customize Action Button for Maximum Efficiency
Image Source: Apple Support
My Apple Watch Ultra’s orange Action button has become my favorite shortcut to optimize daily tasks. The physical button sits on the left side of the case and opens up a world of customization possibilities.
Action Button Setup Guide
The Action button setup process is straightforward. Here’s my configuration:
- Open Settings on the Ultra
- Tap Action Button
- Select desired action
- Choose specific options for the selected action
Action Button Shortcuts
The button supports several functions that proved really useful:
- Workout tracking
- Stopwatch
- Waypoint marking
- Backtrack navigation
- Dive monitoring
- Flashlight activation
- Custom shortcuts
Action Button Workout Modes
The Action button’s ability to boost workout tracking stands out. A single press launches the Workout app when configured for exercises. You can pause the workout by pressing both the Action and Side buttons together.
Custom shortcuts make the Action button even more powerful. To name just one example, I created a menu-based shortcut that lets me control smart home devices, start specific workouts, or set timers with a single press.
The button’s adaptability makes it special. It marks segments in track sessions and switches between activities in a triathlon. The button works perfectly with gloves on – a feature that proves invaluable during winter training.
Master the Smart Stack Navigation
Image Source: YouTube
The Smart Stack feature in watchOS 10 has become one of my favorite tools on the Ultra.
Smart Stack Customization
My Smart Stack shows relevant widgets based on my time, location, and daily activities. The customization process is straightforward:
- Swiping up from the watch face
- Tapping and holding the screen
- Using the + button to add widgets
- Tapping the pin icon to keep favorites at the top
Smart Stack Gestures
My Smart Stack is available in several ways. I can turn the Digital Crown from any watch face, swipe up from the bottom, or use the new double tap gesture on supported models. This makes information quick to access during workouts or outdoor activities.
Smart Stack Widgets
The Smart Stack displays these vital elements:
- Live activities (timers, music)
- Weather forecasts
- Calendar events
- Boarding passes
- Custom app widgets
The feature’s power comes from its adaptability. The stack shuffles widgets throughout the day based on what’s relevant. To name just one example, see how my weather widget appears in the morning, while my activity rings move up during workout times.
Pinning important widgets keeps them available. All but one of these widgets move dynamically, while pinned ones stay fixed at the top. This mix of smart automation and manual control has made my Ultra experience substantially better.
Optimize Battery Life Beyond Basic Settings
Image Source: Tom’s Guide
My extensive tests found that there was more to maximizing the Ultra’s battery life than simple power management. Through careful optimization, I pushed my Ultra’s battery life way beyond Apple’s claimed 36-hour estimate.
Ultra Battery Modes
The Ultra’s Low Power Mode works remarkably well with proper configuration. The watch runs for up to 60 hours when Low Power Mode and fewer GPS readings are enabled. The battery handles 15 hours of workout tracking, 600 time checks, and 15 hours of sleep tracking impressively well.
Battery Drain Prevention
My tests revealed these biggest battery-draining culprits:
- Background app refreshing
- Always-on display
- Location services
- Walkie-talkie availability
- Continuous heart rate monitoring
- Excessive notifications
Battery Health Tips
These optimization steps worked great for me:
- Enable Sleep Focus overnight to prevent unnecessary wake-ups
- Customize notification settings to essential alerts only
- Remove unused third-party apps
- Disable background app refresh for non-essential apps
All the same, the Ultra has an always-on Optimized Battery Charging feature. This feature learns from my daily charging routine and delays charging past 80% in certain situations. My battery’s long-term health improved right away.
The special long-distance mode reduces GPS and heart rate readings to once every two minutes. This setting helps me complete lengthy outdoor activities without battery concerns.
Configure Advanced Workout Metrics
Image Source: Apple Support
The Apple Ultra’s workout features pack a metrics system that’s way beyond simple tracking.
Workout Views Setup
Here’s how I became skilled at customizing the workout display:
- Open Workout app on Ultra
- Select desired workout type
- Tap the three dots icon
- Select priorities
- Choose Workout Views
Custom Metrics Creation
I found that the Ultra displays an impressive set of running metrics:
- Vertical oscillation (measured in cm)
- Ground contact time (in milliseconds)
- Stride length (in meters)
- Running power (in watts)
The Ultra lets you display up to five metrics on a single screen for the best viewing experience. We used this feature during intense training sessions to track multiple data points at once.
Workout Data Analysis
The Ultra’s analysis capabilities proved detailed after workouts. The heart rate sensor stays active for 3 minutes after the workout and provides valuable recovery data.
The Ultra brings a new training load feature that measures how workouts affect you over time. This feature compares your last seven days of training against a 28-day baseline. The system creates automatic effort ratings based on your age, height, weight, and workout data like GPS and elevation.
Automatic track detection stands out as one of my favorite features. The Ultra detects when you’re at an outdoor track and asks about your lane choice for exact measurements.
Unlock Hidden Watch Face Features
Image Source: Apple Support
My exploration of the Ultra’s interface features led me to find some remarkable watch face capabilities that many users miss.
Watch Face Complications
Without doubt, the Ultra watch faces’ most powerful feature is their complication support. I found that there was both Wayfinder and Modular Ultra faces can show up to seven complications at once. These complications include everything from simple time displays to advanced metrics like:
- Activity tracking
- Weather conditions
- Calendar events
- Compass waypoints
- Heart rate monitoring
Night Mode Settings
The Night Mode feature helps you retain your night vision. The Ultra adds a red filter to the display automatically. You can set this up with these steps:
- Long press on the watch face
- Select Edit
- Swipe to Night Mode options
- Choose between Auto, On, or Off
The Auto setting in watchOS 10 uses the ambient light sensor to activate Night Mode. This feature works only with Wayfinder and Modular Ultra watch faces.
Watch Face Shortcuts
Quick access to different watch faces used to be a challenge. Now shortcuts help me switch between faces based on my activities. The Ultra lets you create custom shortcuts that trigger specific watch faces for different scenarios. You can add these shortcuts as complications to access them instantly.
These features make my Ultra more versatile, especially when you have nighttime activities. The red display is a great way to get natural vision while keeping all functions accessible.
Maximize Compass Waypoints
Image Source: Apple Support
The Compass app on my Ultra has become my go-to navigation tool because of its powerful waypoint features. I’ve been learning about its capabilities and found that there was so much potential for both urban and outdoor adventures.
Waypoint Creation
I’ve become skilled at creating waypoints in several ways. The quickest way is:
- Opening the Compass app
- Tapping the waypoint icon (bottom-left corner)
- Customizing the label and symbol
- Tapping the checkmark to save
My Action button is now set up for instant waypoint creation, which is a great way to get quick marks during hikes or runs.
Waypoint Navigation
The navigation features have changed how I explore new areas. The app shows me exactly where my saved locations are and how to reach them. I can see:
- Distance measurements in miles/kilometers
- Directional guidance (left/right)
- Relative elevation changes
- Exact coordinates
Waypoint Management
Managing multiple waypoints used to feel overwhelming. Now I use the waypoint management system to keep everything in order. The app gets more waypoints and thus encourages more usage by marking spots like my parked car location and areas with continuous connection. I can edit waypoint details anytime by tapping the pencil icon and adjust colors, symbols, or names that match their purpose.
The elevation view has become my favorite feature. It displays three-dimensional representations of waypoint locations relative to my position and helps me understand both distance and height differences between points.
Customize Emergency SOS Settings
Image Source: Apple Support
I found that setting up the Emergency SOS feature on my Ultra gives me peace of mind during outdoor adventures.
SOS Configuration
My Ultra’s emergency response settings were easy to customize. The watch has two ways to activate SOS: you can press and hold the side button or use the Emergency Call slider. We opted for the manual slider because it stops accidental triggers during intense activities.
Emergency Contact Setup
Your emergency contacts need proper setup. My Medical ID now has all the vital information that first responders can access even when my device is locked. Here’s what you need to do:
- Open the Health app
- Add your medical conditions and allergies
- Put in your emergency contact details
- Turn on Show When Locked feature
SOS Testing
The system needs safe testing methods. The Ultra sends your location to emergency contacts every four hours after an emergency call. If you trigger it by accident, remember to:
- Stay on until the responder answers
- Let them know it was an accident
- Stop the automatic text message to your contacts
The Ultra has advanced features like Fall Detection that calls emergency services if you don’t move for about a minute. The watch also connects to local emergency services when you travel internationally, though location sharing works differently depending on where you are.
Enable Advanced Heart Monitoring
Image Source: Apple
I found that my Ultra’s heart monitoring features are way beyond simple pulse tracking. The watch has sophisticated heart health features that are a great way to get insights for both fitness and overall wellbeing.
Heart Rate Zones
The Ultra automatically calculates five tailored heart rate zones based on my health data. These zones help me optimize my workouts by showing:
- Zone selection on the Digital Crown
- Live heart rate tracking
- Time spent in each zone
- Average heart rate calculations
AFib Detection
The Ultra stands out because it knows how to detect irregular heart rhythms that might suggest atrial fibrillation. The watch checks my heart rhythm in the background periodically. I enabled notifications through these steps:
- Set up irregular rhythm alerts
- Configure high/low heart rate thresholds
- Enable wrist detection
- Activate background measurements
Heart Data Analysis
The optical heart sensor uses green LED lights paired with photodiodes to measure blood flow through my wrist. This technology lets the Ultra calculate various metrics, such as:
- Resting heart rate
- Walking average
- Workout recovery rate
- Daily heart rate trends
The watch measures my heart rate continuously while I wear it. I can view detailed heart data over hours, days, weeks, or months through the Health app on my iPhone. This detailed tracking helps me understand my heart health patterns and make informed decisions about my fitness routine.
Master Backtrack Navigation
Image Source: Apple Support
The Backtrack feature on my Ultra has saved me from getting lost many times in unfamiliar terrain, just like a digital breadcrumb trail. This GPS-powered navigation tool works without Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity, which makes it perfect for remote adventures.
Backtrack Setup
You need to follow these simple steps to set up Backtrack:
- Open the Compass app
- Tap the footprints icon (bottom-right)
- Select “Start” to begin recording
- Allow location access when prompted
Route Recording
We found two ways to activate route recording. The standard method uses the Compass app, and there’s a quick-access option if you press and hold the side button. The Ultra shows a white arrow that points toward my starting location once I start the “Retrace Steps” mode.
Navigation Tips
My experience with Backtrack has taught me everything about its use:
- Works best in remote settings away from familiar places
- Functions independently of iPhone connection
- Continues tracking even without network coverage
- Automatically saves route data to use later
The unique aspect of Backtrack lies in its simplicity – the white arrow points toward my starting location consistently. Battery life worried me at first, but the feature makes good use of power by adjusting GPS tracking intervals.
The system doesn’t consider elevation changes or environmental obstacles, so I combine it with simple outdoor navigation skills. During long adventures, I activate it at decision points instead of running it continuously.
Optimize Sleep Tracking
Image Source: CyberGuy
My months of testing different sleep tracking methods on my Ultra showed that the right setup makes the most important difference in understanding how I sleep.
Sleep Schedule Setup
The right setup of sleep tracking needs attention to detail. Here’s how I got the best results with my Ultra’s sleep tracking:
- Open the Health app
- Go to Sleep section
- Set sleep goal (recommended 7-8 hours)
- Configure bedtime and wake-up times
- Enable charging reminders
Sleep Data Analysis
My Ultra tracks everything about sleep:
- Sleep stages (REM, Core, Deep)
- Heart rate variations
- Respiratory rate (breaths per minute)
- Wrist temperature changes
The average person gets 49 minutes of deep sleep each night, which is about 13% of total sleep time. My research shows that people spend between 15-25% of their time in REM sleep.
Sleep Mode Customization
Sleep mode settings used to be a challenge until I found the customization options. My Ultra lets me:
- Set wind-down time before bed
- Configure display brightness
- Enable/disable notifications
- Customize emergency contact access
The Ultra’s value comes from its ability to detect sleep automatically when you wear it to bed. All this data goes straight to the Health app, where you can see your patterns across days, weeks, or months.
Configure Dual-Frequency GPS
Image Source: Apple Support
The Ultra’s dual-frequency GPS has transformed my outdoor activities. My tests show this advanced system works better than traditional GPS watches for location tracking.
GPS Mode Selection
The Ultra connects to L1 and L5 GPS bands, along with multiple satellite systems like GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo, and QZSS. I choose different GPS modes based on my activities:
- Standard tracking for daily runs
- Precision mode for trail adventures
- Track detection for running ovals
- Backtrack navigation for remote areas
Location Accuracy
The Ultra stands out because it can cache orbit predictions for up to a week. The watch knows when I’m at a standard 400m IAAF running track and improves accuracy without calibration. The dual-frequency system gives precise positioning by:
- Cross-referencing data with Apple Maps
- Using custom positioning algorithms
- Applying advanced satellite models
GPS Battery Impact
GPS power use changes with different modes. Standard GPS tracking lasts up to 12 hours during workouts. Low-power mode extends this to 60 hours with fewer GPS readings, trading accuracy for battery life. The watch checks GPS location every two minutes in this mode. This works well for longer adventures when battery life matters more than precision.
Customize Workout Views
Image Source: Apple Support
My Ultra’s workout view customization has helped me reach new training heights. The way I track my performance has changed completely because I can now customize my workout screens.
Metrics Layout
Setting up workout views is straightforward:
- Open the Workout app
- Select desired workout type
- Tap the three dots icon
- Go to priorities
- Select Workout Views
Data Field Selection
These key metrics appear on my screen:
- Current heart rate
- Active calories
- Distance covered
- Elevation gained
- Running power
My Ultra displays up to five metrics on one screen, and I can add a second metrics view to see more data points. Each workout type offers different metrics – cardio activities give you more detailed options.
View Rotation
The Digital Crown lets me switch between views during workouts without missing a step. This helps me focus on specific metrics while maintaining my pace. My Ultra adjusts display brightness and contrast automatically to ensure perfect visibility in any condition.
My cardio workouts now show specialized views with heart rate zones, splits, and elevation profiles. The watch saves my priorities for each workout type, which makes switching between activities smooth and effortless.
Set Up Smart Home Controls
Image Source: Apple Support
My Ultra’s ability to control my smart home right from my wrist has become one of its most useful features. The uninterrupted connection with HomeKit-enabled accessories has made my daily routines easier than I ever imagined.
Home App Integration
My Ultra’s Home app lets me control smart devices of all types securely – from lights and locks to thermostats and cameras. Here’s how I set everything up:
- Install HomeKit-enabled accessories
- Open Home app on iPhone
- Define rooms and zones
- Add accessories to Ultra
- Create custom scenes
Quick Controls
The Home screen on my Ultra shows up to four camera feeds at the top. I can control multiple devices with these quick actions:
- View live camera streams
- Adjust thermostat settings
- Control smart lights
- Lock/unlock doors
- Manage security systems
Automation Setup
We created scenes that trigger based on my location or time of day. My Ultra senses when I’m nearby and kicks off preset actions. My favorite “Coming Home” scene adjusts the temperature, brightens the lights, and unlocks the front door automatically.
Siri voice commands are perfect for hands-free control. This feature is a great way to get things done while I cook or exercise. My Ultra also sends immediate alerts if security cameras or sensors detect anything unusual.
Enable Advanced Audio Features
Image Source: Apple Support
Becoming skilled at the audio features on my Ultra has transformed my interaction with the watch. I tested extensively and found several hidden audio capabilities that improve its functionality.
Mic Settings
The Ultra’s microphone system needs proper configuration to work best. A quick check of the microphone status is vital – you’ll see a line through the mic icon in Control Center when it’s muted. These steps help me get the best mic performance:
- Open Control Center
- Check microphone icon status
- Enable dictation in settings
- Verify Siri settings are active
- Clean microphone openings regularly
Speaker Optimization
The Ultra’s speaker volume needs careful adjustment based on your environment. Sound management works best through the Sound & Haptics settings. The watch gives you multiple ways to control volume:
- Digital Crown adjustment during calls
- Volume slider in Control Center
- Custom volume presets for different activities
Audio Alerts
My Ultra’s alert system is versatile. The watch mutes incoming alerts when you cover the display for three seconds. You can set the haptic feedback to Off, Default, or Prominent.
Media playback through the watch speaker drains the battery quickly during outdoor activities. Ten minutes of audio use reduces battery life by 1 hour. This makes me more mindful about using the speaker during long adventures.
Maximize Water Lock Features
Image Source: Apple Support
The Water Lock feature on my Ultra has become indispensable during water activities. It protects my device and keeps everything working perfectly. I’ve found several ways to use this capability beyond its simple functions.
Auto Lock Settings
My Ultra automatically turns on Water Lock when I begin swimming workouts. We found that the watch detects when it’s submerged at 10cm depth and activates protection on its own. This smart feature means I never have to worry about forgetting to enable protection before jumping in.
Manual Lock Control
You can activate Water Lock manually through these steps:
- Press the side button
- Locate the water drop symbol
- Tap to activate Water Lock
- Check if the lock icon appears
Water Ejection
Getting water out of the Ultra requires a special process. The watch produces specific tones that push water droplets out from the speaker grills. The process works like this:
- Press and hold Digital Crown
- Let the tones finish playing
- Dry with a soft cloth
My experience shows that the best protection in chlorinated pools comes from activating Water Lock before swimming and using water ejection right after. The Ultra’s water resistance rating of 100 meters lets me enjoy water activities of all types with complete peace of mind, whether I’m swimming laps or enjoying high-speed water sports.
Optimize Cellular Connection
Image Source: Reddit
My Ultra’s cellular capabilities have opened up new connectivity options. Testing helped me find ways to make this feature work better.
LTE Management
The Control Center shows my connection status through color-coded signals in the cellular strength indicator:
- Green bars show an active cellular connection
- White shows connection to iPhone/Wi-Fi
- No bars mean there’s no cellular coverage
Data Usage
Checking data usage has become routine now. The Apple Watch app on my iPhone lets me track this under Cellular Data Usage. We noticed that battery life takes a substantial hit when cellular stays on too long.
Connection Priority
The Ultra follows a smart order to connect. It switches to the most efficient power option available:
- iPhone connection when close by
- Known Wi-Fi networks
- Cellular network as the last option
The battery lasts longer when I turn off cellular in areas with poor signals. This prevents the watch from draining power while searching for coverage. Wi-Fi connections help extend the battery life. The Ultra tries to connect to LTE networks first and switches to UMTS when LTE isn’t around.
Low Data Mode helps in areas with limited connectivity. This setting cuts down background activities and adjusts streaming quality while keeping core functions running.
Configure Night Mode Settings
Image Source: MacRumors
Night Mode on my Ultra has become a must-have to protect my eyes during nighttime adventures. The display shifts to a red tint that shields my eyes from harsh blue light.
Auto Night Mode
The Ultra’s watchOS 10 uses its ambient light sensor to control Night Mode automatically. This setting now comes as default and adjusts naturally to light changes without any manual input. The watch’s sensor picks the best time to activate based on darkness levels around you.
Manual Activation
To set up Night Mode, I follow these steps:
- Long press on watch face
- Select Edit button
- Swipe to Night Mode
- Choose between Auto, On, or Off
Display Optimization
The red filter works with just two watch faces:
- Wayfinder face
- Modular Ultra face
We noticed that Night Mode changes only the main screen – the display returns to normal when you tap complications or access other features. This feature helps me a lot during stargazing and hiking because it keeps my natural night vision intact.
The brightness settings can be adjusted to match your surroundings. The red filter blocks blue light while keeping important information readable. The bright display and red filter work together to strike the right balance between visibility and eye protection.
Customize Siren Features
Image Source: Apple Support
The Ultra’s 86-decibel siren is a vital safety feature. My field tests helped me understand how to get the most out of this life-saving tool.
Siren Activation
You can activate the Ultra’s siren in several ways. The quickest way works like this:
- Press and hold the Action button
- Wait for the Siren slider
- Drag the slider to start countdown
- Let the countdown complete
Volume Control
The siren creates two alternating patterns you can hear up to 600 feet away. The volume increases slowly, which gives you time to move the watch away from your ears. The first pattern signals distress, and the second follows the universal SOS pattern.
Emergency Integration
The siren keeps working until the battery runs out or you turn it off manually. Your watch screen shows a red border with:
- Remaining battery percentage
- Emergency call button
- Stop button for quick deactivation
We tested and learned that turning off the “Hold to Turn On” feature in Settings prevents accidental activation. Phone calls, timers, and alarms automatically pause the siren. Water might lower the siren’s volume, but it works at full strength once the watch dries.
Set Up Advanced Timer Functions
Image Source: Apple Support
My Ultra’s multiple timer feature has boosted my daily productivity. The Ultra supports multiple concurrent timers with custom labels and shortcuts, while iPhones can only handle one timer at a time.
Timer Presets
Eight preset durations from 1 minute to 2 hours are available on the Ultra. The grid layout makes these presets easy to use with wet or gloved hands. Users can quickly access common durations like 1, 3, 5, 10, 15, and 30 minutes.
Custom Timers
Creating customized timers is straightforward with these steps:
- Open the Timer app
- Scroll to Custom option
- Set hours, minutes, and seconds
- Add custom label (optional)
- Save as favorite if needed
The Ultra stands out by running multiple timers at once. Each timer gets its own label for different tasks:
- Cooking timers with food names
- Workout intervals
- Meeting reminders
- Meditation sessions
Timer Shortcuts
Siri makes timer management simple on the Ultra. A quick “Hey Siri, set a timer for 18 minutes for Pizza” creates a labeled timer. Named timers help track multiple activities without confusion. Recent timers stay available for future use.
Enable Depth Gauge Features
Image Source: Apple Support
My time with the Ultra has shown its amazing underwater capabilities that go well beyond simple water resistance. This device becomes a reliable underwater companion through its Depth app and measures depths up to 40 meters.
Depth Alerts
Setting up my Ultra’s depth priorities was a simple process:
- Access Settings app
- Select Depth option
- Choose measurement units
- Configure auto-launch settings
- Set up Action button integration
Data Recording
The Depth app shows vital metrics on a single screen:
- Current depth and maximum depth
- Time spent underwater
- Water temperature readings
- Entry and exit locations
My Ultra records depth and temperature data automatically whenever it’s underwater, whatever app runs. This information blends naturally with my iPhone’s Health app.
Gauge Calibration
The Ultra needs to stay free of cracks or damage to maintain optimal accuracy. The depth sensor stays accurate within plus or minus 1 meter. The watch screen turns yellow below 40 meters to show approaching depth limits.
The Depth app displays a complete dive summary once I surface. It shows my underwater duration, maximum depth reached, and temperature range. My Ultra’s depth gauge meets EN13319 diving depth standards and provides reliable measurements to support recreational diving activities.
Optimize Notification Management
Image Source: Apple Support
My Ultra’s notification system works better now thanks to some thoughtful setup. I’ve built a system that keeps me in the loop without bombarding me with alerts.
Priority Settings
The Ultra syncs with my iPhone’s notification settings by default. While this automatic sync helps, I’ve personalized app notifications using these steps:
- Open Watch app on iPhone
- Select Notifications
- Choose specific app
- Select Custom options
- Configure Allow/Send to Center/Off
Focus Integration
Focus modes make my Ultra’s notification system even more powerful. The watch shows Focus icons at the top when they’re active. My testing found that there was time-sensitive notifications that break through Focus modes, so I never miss significant alerts.
Quick Responses
The Ultra gives me several ways to manage incoming notifications. Just like on the iPhone, I can:
- Mute notifications for 1 hour or the whole day
- Add notifications to Summary view
- Turn off time-sensitive alerts
- Group notifications by app or automatically
A red dot appears at the top of my watch face to show unread notifications. Siri reads my notifications through AirPods, which is a great way to get updates during workouts or drives.
Configure Fall Detection
Image Source: Apple Support
I put the Fall Detection feature on my Ultra through its paces and found it to be a vital safety tool. My watch knows how to detect hard falls and automatically calls for help, which gives me great peace of mind during solo adventures.
Sensitivity Settings
People between 18 and 55 need to turn on Fall Detection manually. Here’s how I set mine up:
- Open Settings on Ultra
- Go to SOS > Fall Detection
- Choose between “Always on” or “Only during workouts”
- Confirm settings
Activity Detection
My Ultra’s fall detection system uses advanced motion tracking. It spots hard falls and keeps an eye on what happens next. When someone doesn’t move for about a minute after falling, the watch starts a 30-second countdown with alerts that get louder.
Emergency Response
My Ultra follows these steps when it spots a serious fall:
- Taps my wrist and sounds an alarm
- Shows an emergency alert
- Calls emergency services automatically after a minute without movement
The system sends my location to emergency contacts once the call ends. The feature works through cellular, Wi-Fi, or satellite connection on iPhone 14 models. While the watch works best at catching falls during active movement, it might sometimes trigger during high-impact activities.
Customize Control Center
Image Source: Apple Support
My Ultra’s Control Center customization has changed the way I reach my favorite features. The new side button activation in watchOS 10 lets me fine-tune my setup and optimize my daily use.
Quick Access Tools
The Control Center gives me instant access to vital functions through an easy-to-use interface. A single tap lets me check my Wi-Fi, cellular connections, battery percentage, and switch between different modes. These tools help me:
- Check connection status
- Monitor battery levels
- Toggle features like Silent Mode
- Access audio controls
- Manage display settings
Layout Organization
Here’s how I set up my Control Center:
- Press the side button to open Control Center
- Scroll to bottom and tap Edit
- Touch and hold buttons to rearrange
- Tap plus/minus icons to add or remove
- Select Done to save changes
Feature Shortcuts
My custom layout puts my most-used controls right at the top where I need them. Small status icons at the screen’s top show me what’s active – from Bluetooth connections to location services. I can add or remove controls to keep my interface clean while keeping my important features just a tap away.
Enable Advanced Accessibility
Image Source: Apple Support
The Ultra’s accessibility features are nowhere near as basic as I first thought. After exploring them thoroughly, I discovered tools that really improve how anyone can use this watch.
Vision Features
The Ultra provides detailed vision support through VoiceOver that you can activate with three clicks of the Digital Crown. The Zoom feature works like a magnifying glass and enlarges content up to 15 times. I’ve noticed that switching to grayscale reduces eye strain during long sessions.
Motion Controls
We configured touch settings to match my priorities. The Ultra lets you control:
- Touch duration settings
- Response time adjustments
- Tap sensitivity
- Gesture recognition
You can customize button click speed in Settings > Accessibility, which changes how the watch responds to your interactions.
Sound Recognition
The Ultra’s noise monitoring features protect your hearing by tracking ambient sound levels. You’ll feel a tap when noise gets too loud. The microphone checks environmental noise without recording or saving anything, so you keep your privacy while staying protected.
These features are a great way to get better audio awareness:
- Environmental sound measurements
- Noise notifications
- Custom decibel thresholds
- Weekly listening summaries
The Ultra detects sounds between 80-100 decibels and figures out safe exposure times. This helps me maintain healthy hearing habits during activities.
Master Double Tap Controls
Image Source: Apple Support
The double tap gesture has changed the way I control my Ultra 2. A simple double tap with my thumb and index finger lets me perform many actions without touching the screen.
Gesture Setup
Setting up the double tap feature requires specific conditions. My checklist includes:
- A snugly fitted and unlocked watch
- An active screen
- Low Power Mode turned off
- Sleep Focus disabled
- Water Lock deactivated
Custom Actions
I found that there are two ways to customize double tap:
- Smart Stack Navigation: You can advance through widgets or select the top widget
- Media Control: Choose between play/pause or skip function
App Integration
Double tap combines smoothly with key functions. You can:
- Answer calls
- Use dictation to reply to messages
- Control your music
- Direct your Smart Stack
- Control timers
The feature has its limits – it won’t work during ECG readings, heart rate measurements, or active workouts. A blue icon appears at the top of the screen when the watch detects your double tap gesture.
This gesture is a great way to get things done when one hand is busy with cooking or carrying groceries. The Neural Engine makes use of information from multiple sensors to detect specific wrist movements and blood flow patterns during the double tap motion.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Main Goal | Best Benefit | Setup Requirements | Notable Limitations | Battery Effect |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Action Button | Custom shortcut | Quick access to functions | Settings > Action Button setup | Works only with preset functions | Not mentioned |
| Smart Stack | Widget display | Information that adapts to context | Swipe up and add with + button | Needs manual pinning to stay fixed | Not mentioned |
| Battery Optimization | Longer battery life | Runs up to 60 hours | Turn on Low Power Mode | Less accurate GPS in extended mode | Changes with settings |
| Workout Metrics | Better performance tracking | Shows 5 metrics on screen | Workout app > Settings > Views | Depends on workout type | Uses more power during tracking |
| Watch Face Features | Custom display options | Fits 7 complications | Long press > Edit watch face | Night Mode works on select faces | Depends on complexity |
| Compass Waypoints | Marks locations | Guides up to 600 feet | Compass app > waypoint icon | Misses elevation barriers | Not mentioned |
| Emergency SOS | Help in emergencies | Shares location right away | Health app Medical ID setup | Can trigger by mistake | Uses lots of power |
| Heart Monitoring | Tracks health | Spots AFib | Turn on alerts | Must wear regularly | Medium usage |
| Backtrack Navigation | Records routes | Works offline | Start in Compass app | No elevation data | Based on use |
| Sleep Tracking | Studies sleep patterns | Shows detailed sleep stages | Set schedule in Health app | Must wear overnight | Uses 4-5% nightly |
| Dual-Frequency GPS | Exact location tracking | Works with multiple satellites | Turns on by itself | Uses more power in precise mode | Uses lots of power |
| Workout Views | Shows exercise data | Custom metrics | Set in Workout app | Shows only 5 metrics per screen | Not mentioned |
| Smart Home Controls | Manages devices | Shows 4 camera feeds | Set up HomeKit devices | Only works with HomeKit | Uses little power |
| Audio Features | Controls sound | Checks environment noise | Sound & Haptics settings | Speaker use drains battery | Uses 1hr per 10min audio |
| Water Lock | Guards against water | Starts automatically | Change in Settings | Quieter siren when wet | Not mentioned |
| Cellular Connection | Works independently | Switches networks as needed | Needs carrier plan | Weak signals drain power | Uses lots when active |
| Night Mode | Protects eyes | Turns on by itself | Pick watch face options | Works on two faces only | Uses little power |
| Siren Features | Alerts in emergencies | Reaches 86 decibels | Set up Action button | Gets quieter when wet | Uses lots of power |
| Timer Functions | Multiple countdowns | Runs timers together | Set up in Timer app | Few preset options | Uses little power |
| Depth Gauge | Measures underwater | Tracks to 40m depth | Starts automatically | Warns at 40m depth | Not mentioned |
| Notification Management | Organizes alerts | Sets custom importance | Set up in Watch app | Matches iPhone settings | Based on volume |
| Fall Detection | Watches for safety | Calls help automatically | Must turn on manually | May trigger from impacts | Uses little power |
| Control Center | Quick setting changes | Layout you can change | Press side button | Limited control space | Not mentioned |
| Accessibility | Helps with use | Many support choices | Change in Settings | Some options slow things down | Depends on feature |
| Double Tap | Hands-free use | Quick actions | Works automatically | Not for workouts | Uses little power |
Conclusion
My detailed testing and daily use of the Apple Watch Ultra has definitely proven its worth beyond the $799 investment. This device goes way beyond simple smartwatch features. These 25 hidden features revolutionize the Ultra into a vital tool for fitness, safety, and productivity.
You get exceptional control with the Action button. Smart Stack navigation makes daily interactions smoother. The Ultra stays reliable for extended adventures because battery optimization techniques extend usage up to 60 hours. Solo activities become safer with advanced workout metrics and Fall Detection.
Becoming skilled at these features takes time and hands-on testing. My Ultimate Apple Productivity course teaches you how to use your technology instead of letting it use you. Apple’s dedication to challenge innovation while keeping user-friendly operation shows in the Ultra’s sophisticated capabilities – from dual-frequency GPS to underwater depth tracking.
The watch’s real value comes from more than just individual features working together smoothly. Each capability enhances the others and creates a detailed system that adapts to your needs. Time invested in learning these hidden features turns the Ultra from an expensive timepiece into an essential daily companion.
This article was written by Jerbot, an AI Agent trained by Jerad.
