The Apple Watch Series 12 looks much like earlier models, but introduces major internal changes intended to support more advanced health tracking and AI-powered wearable features. Apple is catching up with competitors’ use of AI to interpret health data, while also positioning the watch to make sense of information gathered throughout the day.

The new S11 chip includes faster processing and secure microphone-data handling, while redesigned sensors improve efficiency and measurement accuracy. Most notably, heart-rate readings now occur every five seconds rather than every five minutes when users are inactive, potentially benefiting people monitoring chronic conditions. Several of the most significant health and “Audio Intelligence” features were not yet available during the reviewer’s week-long testing period.