Let’s face it, the Apple Watch Ultra is a massive smartwatch, and with rumors circulating that an even bigger model may be on the way, I can’t keep quiet any longer – this device is just too big.
As with smartphones, the endless quest for more screen space has gotten out of control with smartwatches. The Ultra’s 49mm body looks aggressive, oversized, and, frankly, silly on my fairly standard 6.5-inch wrist.
The chunky design also feels painfully masculine. Perhaps Apple doesn’t believe women need or want 100-meter water resistance – which is simply absurd – or perhaps the thinking is that women who do want it won’t mind the bulkiness.
Considering how much these tech giants want to be seen as cool in the eyes of potential customers, offering your best product only in an extra-large size isn’t very profitable. Maybe they haven’t noticed, but being inclusive in product designs is the way to go.
I’d like to make a case for a smaller Apple Watch Ultra 3 with the same features and build quality as the larger models. A 40mm Ultra would be just the thing, for example. You could even call it the Apple Watch SE Ultra, as long as it doesn’t skimp on technology or environmental protection like the standard SE models.
To be fair, Apple isn’t the only brand to neglect smaller wrists when it comes to rugged flagship models. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is also only available in a fairly large case size of 47mm.
Considering how much these tech giants want to be seen as cool and “in” in the eyes of potential customers, offering your best product only in an extra-large size isn’t very profitable. Maybe they haven’t noticed, but being inclusive in product designs is the way to go.
Perhaps Apple and Samsung should take design inspiration from Garmin; the similarly robustly built Fenix 7 smartwatch is available in 42, 47 and 51 mm sizes.
The big tech companies’ penchant for big screens also clashes with current watch fashion trends. From streetwear to evening wear, oversized watches are out and dainty, elegant pieces are in. Given Cupurtino’s strong desire to be on trend, a smaller Ultra Watch model makes more sense now than ever.
After all, robust construction and well-proportioned shapes don’t have to be mutually exclusive, so it’s about time Apple gave us petite-wristed folks what we deserve. That’s probably guaranteed to get you at least one customer here.
