A watch face previously exclusive to the Apple Watch Ultra is apparently migrating to the Series models in a simplified version. Here's what that means for watchOS 27.
In the weeks leading up to WWDC, clues traditionally accumulate about what Apple is preparing in the next Apple Watch software update. New watch faces are a regular feature of every watchOS version. For watchOS 27, a report from Mark Gurman's circle now suggests that Apple will open up one of its most exclusive watch faces to date – the Modular Ultra. A simplified version is expected to be available for standard Apple Watches in the future.
Reports on the Modular Ultra update
The information comes from the current Sunday edition of Mark Gurman's "Power On" newsletter at Bloomberg. According to the report, Apple is currently testing several new watch faces for watchOS 27. However, the focus of his report is on just one of them: a stripped-down Modular Ultra.
Since the introduction of the Apple Watch Ultra, the Modular Ultra watch face has been one of the most prestigious in the Apple Watch lineup. Designed specifically for the larger display of the Ultra models, it utilizes every available pixel: a massive clock display, a large central complication panel, a row of three smaller complications, and additional information along the entire edge of the display. On the smaller Series Apple Watch, this concept would simply be cluttered – and that's precisely where Apple's adaptation comes in.
This changes in the simplified version
The slimmed-down version, which according to Gurman is currently being tested internally, retains the characteristic look of the Modular Ultra, but does without everything that no longer works on a smaller display.
Specifically, the following elements are omitted: the large central complication, the row of three small complications above the time, and the information around the bezel. What remains is a significantly clearer layout. The time occupies the upper two-thirds of the display, followed by the row of three small complications. The result: a dial that clearly conveys the look of the Modular Ultra, but appears noticeably more airy – and thus matches the more compact display of the Series models.
Why the concept makes sense for the Series models
While Apple has maintained distinct design languages for the watch faces of the Apple Watch Series 11 and the Apple Watch Ultra 3, the hardware is converging year after year. Both models use the same S10 chip, both support 5G, and both now boast comparably high refresh rates thanks to their LTPO3 OLED displays. We've compiled a detailed comparison of the three current Apple Watch models in our buying guide for the Ultra 3, Series 11, and SE 3.
Against this backdrop, it makes sense that Apple is also beginning to blur the lines somewhat when it comes to watch faces. Those who liked the distinctive Modular Ultra look but don't own an Ultra will, for the first time with watchOS 27, have the option to use this design principle on the Series or, presumably, also on the SE 3.
More than just a watch face: What else is expected from watchOS 27
The customized Modular Ultra is just one of the new watch faces Apple is working on, according to Gurman. He hasn't yet specified which other designs will be included in watchOS 27. However, one thing is clear: the software update won't be limited to just visual details.
As we've previously reported, Apple is planning two key focuses for watchOS 27 – more AI features and under-the-hood improvements. You can find details in our overview of watchOS 27, Apple's AI focus, and improved performance. Parallel topics such as iOS 27's focus on bug fixes and performance, and the new, more intelligent Siri, are also closely linked to the watchOS year.
Pride Luminance is coming before watchOS 27
It's also worth noting that Apple is addressing the watch face theme even before WWDC. According to Gurman, a new Pride Luminance variant will be released with watchOS 26.5 as part of the annual Pride collection. Pride wallpapers for iPhone and iPad are traditionally included as well, but haven't yet appeared in the betas. Both elements are expected to be released together with the final iOS 26.5 release in May.
Apple's strategy is becoming more tangible
The Modular Ultra is a small step, but symbolic. Apple is loosening the strict separation between the Ultra and the standard Apple Watch where it makes functional sense – without compromising the Ultra's premium character. The Ultra remains the model with the largest display and maximum information density, but its iconic look and feel is now reaching a wider audience for the first time. How comprehensively Apple extends this strategy to watchOS 27 will be revealed at WWDC on June 8. We've already compiled what else to expect at the conference in our WWDC 2026 overview. (Image: Shutterstock / frantic00)
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