Apple’s 2025 Apple Watch lineup, including the Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and Apple Watch SE 3, is set to debut with a new S11 system in package (SiP). But according to newly uncovered details, the upgrade may not deliver the performance boost some users were hoping for.
Familiar Architecture Under the Hood
As reported by MacRumors, internal Apple code spotted ahead of the September launch reveals that the S11 chip will use the same T8310 architecture as the S9 and S10 processors found in the current Series 9 and Series 10 models. This design choice suggests that while the S11 will be a new chip in name, its underlying processor technology will remain unchanged.
Apple has a history of extending chip architectures across multiple generations. The S6, S7, and S8, for example, all shared identical core technology. The S9 and S10 introduced two “Sawtooth” performance cores, similar to those in the A16 Bionic chip, along with a 64-bit dual-core CPU, 4-core Neural Engine, second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) support, and 64GB of onboard storage.
Room for Other Improvements
While raw performance may stay the same, Apple could still refine the chip’s design in other ways. For instance, the S10 was engineered with a thinner profile to save internal space, potentially allowing for larger batteries or additional components. Similar internal optimizations could be part of the S11 package.
Related: Apple Watch Ultra 3 Leak Reveals Larger Display in iOS 26 Beta
Looking Ahead to the S12
If history is any guide, the real performance leap may arrive with 2026’s S12 chip, which could bring a new microarchitecture and enhanced speed. For now, Apple appears focused on incremental improvements rather than a major processor overhaul.
Expected Launch Timeline
The Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3 are all expected to be announced at Apple’s September 2025 event alongside the iPhone 17 lineup. According to the leaked code, model identifiers for these watches include:
- N227 / N228 – Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS / Cellular)
- N230 – Apple Watch Ultra 3
- N240 – Apple Watch Ultra 4 (likely for 2026 models)
Until then, Apple Watch enthusiasts should prepare for a familiar level of performance — with any major speed gains reserved for the next generation.
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