Here's why you'll want to purchase the high-end Apple Watch model.

Say hello to the latest member of the Apple Watch family—the Apple Watch Ultra.

The Apple Watch Ultra takes the usual formula and takes it to a new level in a package designed for the outdoors and more. Here is a look at why you’ll want to buy the higher-end Apple Watch model.

Just a quick glance at the Apple Watch Ultra showcases the unique and rugged design. The case itself is made from titanium which is durable and resistant to corrosion. And the case surrounds the edges of the sapphire front crystal display.

The 49mm screen is also the largest display ever on an Apple Watch. And it features up to 2,000 nits of brightness, double the brightness of the Apple Watch Series 8. That should easily make the display readable in even the brightest outdoor situation.

Sapphire is a big step up from the Ion-X Glass from many of the less expensive Apple Watch models and can withstand any drops and a tough lifestyle without being scratched.

On the right side of the case, the familiar Digital Crown is larger and is raised, along with the Side Button, to make both easier to use when wearing gloves. Find out more about what you can do with the Digital Crown and Side button.

The case also sports dual speakers for improved audio calls and to better hear Siri. There is also a three-microphone array to provide the best audio for voice messages and calls.

And that’s far from all as a depth gauge provides real-time measurement of underwater depth and water temperature readings for scuba divers. Underwater explorers will also be happy to hear that the watch is also water resistant to up to 100m, doubling any other Apple Watch on the market.

One of the best features of other rugged smartwatches on the market is battery life. The Apple Watch Ultra does a nice job keeping up. With regular use, the battery provides up to 36 hours of regular use. For comparison, any other Apple Watch only offers up to 18 hours of use before needing to be recharged.

A future update will provide up to 60 hours of use with a low-power mode. So you’ll definitely be able to leave your charger behind and explore.

But whether you're an outdoor explorer or just don't like to charge your watch every night, the Apple Watch Ultra is for you.

On the left side is a completely new way to use the Apple Watch—the Action button. You can customize it to control different functions like starting a workout. Press and hold the button, that’s colored in international orange, to activate an 86-decibel siren that can be heard from 600 feet away. There are two different patterns of the siren, one that suggests distress and another in the universally recognized SOS.

The watch face is one of the main ways that users will interact with the Apple Watch, thanks to complications. And the Apple Watch Ultra is sporting a unique and exclusive option with the Wayfinder face. Taking advantage of the larger screen, the face can showcase up to eight complications. There is also a built-in compass on the dial. You can also customize the face for the mountain, ocean, or trail use.

There is also a new Night mode just for the face. Just turn the Digital Crown to activate. The entire interface turns red for better visibility in dark conditions.

The Apple Watch Ultra is more than just a rugged design thanks to a number of software features.

Only for the largest Apple Watch is a Depth app. Automatically starting when you are underwater, it displays the time, current depth, water temperature, duration under, and maximum depth reached. You can also program the Action button to quickly launch the app.

Another exclusive is the Oceanic+ app. Apple partnered with Huish Outdoors. The app will turn the Apple Watch Ultra into a true dive computer. You’ll see information like dive metrics, ascent rate, and safety stop guidance. For use underwater, the app uses visual and haptic alerts. It also provides a personalized profile, reports on dive conditions, and a dive logbook that can be shared with others.

Apple has also redesigned the Compass app for watchOS 9 for Apple Watch Ultra and all other models. Along with a new hybrid view with a digital and analog compass dial, it features the Compass Waypoints and Backtrack feature. Both of those can be started with the Action button.

When purchasing an Apple Watch Ultra Band, you can select from one of three new options—Trail Loop, Alpine Loop, and Ocean Band.

The thin Trail Loop is made with soft woven nylon and features a tab for quick and easy adjustment. The Alpine Loop is woven from two layers of material without any stitching. A titanium G-hook fastener provides a secure attachment.

As the name suggests, the Ocean Band is made for the water. It stretches and uses a tube-like design for the best fit. An optional tail will allow divers to wear it over a wetsuit.

If this isn’t your first Apple Watch, we do have some good news. All existing bands that fit the 42mm/44mm/45mm Apple Watch will fit the Apple Watch Ultra and vice versa. Find out more about all of the Apple Watch bands available.

And the Apple Watch Ultra also offers both the big new features of the Apple Watch Series 8. First is a temperature sensor that brings more insight into a woman’s health. Crash Detection uses new motion sensors to determine a severe car crash and automatically dial emergency services if a person is unresponsive. It will also provide your exact location to first responders and all of your emergency contacts.

While the Apple Watch Ultra isn’t for everyone, the most expensive model in the Apple Watch lineup takes the wearable device in an interesting new direction.

Features like a 36-hour battery, new design, and unique watch faces will attract many new fans.

Born and raised in sunny west Texas, Brent graduated from Texas Tech University with a BA in journalism. He's been writing about technology for more than 5 years and enjoys all things Apple, accessories, and security.

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