Tech

Apple Watch Series 11 drops to record low as WIRED highlights AI and health features

WIRED reviewers rate the device 9/10, citing improved battery life and new AI capabilities, while noting the current price is unlikely to be matched until Black Friday.

Author
Owen Mercer
Markets and Finance Editor
Published
Draft
Source: WIRED · original
The Best Apple Watch Is 30 Percent off Right Now (2026)
The smartwatch is now priced at $279, marking a 30 per cent discount from its manufacturer’s suggested retail price.

The Apple Watch Series 11 is currently available at a 30 per cent discount, reducing the price to $279. This figure sits $20 below the lowest price recorded for the device this year, representing a saving of $120 off the manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $399 and $20 less than the typical sale price of $299. The report, published by WIRED, indicates that the publication does not expect this price point to be matched again until Black Friday.

WIRED reviewers have awarded the Apple Watch Series 11 a 9/10 rating, positioning it as the top recommendation for iPhone users seeking a smartwatch. The device was launched nearly a year prior to this report, and the outlet notes that previous generations of Apple Watches were often plagued by short battery life. The Series 11 addresses this by lasting a full 24-hour day, allowing for more accurate tracking of full workout routines and sleep cycles.

Key features driving the high rating include iOS-integrated health updates, satellite messaging for off-grid communication, and blood oxygen monitoring. The device also features a new AI-enabled function called 'Workout Buddy', which serves as an invisible fitness coach. Standard fitness metrics tracked include heart rate, sleep score, vitals, and cycle tracking.

The smartwatch includes a suite of advanced health and safety features, such as the ability to take electrocardiograms and monitor for signs of hypertension. It also offers FDA-cleared high-blood-pressure notifications and Fall Detection. Satellite messaging capabilities are available on models with cellular connectivity, enhancing its utility for users requiring hands-free phone use and safety monitoring.

While not every new iteration of the device warrants an upgrade, WIRED maintains that the Series 11 remains the best smartwatch for monitoring health and day-to-day activities. The current discount presents a significant entry point for consumers, with the price being more than $20 below the lowest level seen earlier in the year.

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