The Apple Watch Ultra 2 has made significant strides in ambient light sensor performance compared to previous models, particularly in terms of maximum brightness. Hereâs a detailed comparison:
Brightness Capabilities
- Maximum Brightness: The Ultra 2 boasts a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, which is a 50% increase over the original Ultra's 2,000 nits[2][4]. This enhancement allows for better visibility in bright outdoor conditions, making it the brightest Apple Watch to date[9].- Minimum Brightness: The Ultra 2 can dim down to 1 nit in low-light conditions, which is useful for not disturbing others nearby[4][9]. However, this feature has led to complaints from users who find the display too dim in dark environments, even when set to maximum brightness[1][5].
User Experience and Complaints
- Dimness in Low Light: Some users have reported that despite the higher brightness capabilities, the Ultra 2âs display can be difficult to read in low-light situations. Many have expressed frustration that the automatic ambient light sensor does not allow for manual override, leading to a perception that the watch is less readable than older models like the Series 6[1][3][7].- Software Influence: There are indications that issues with the ambient light sensor may be linked to recent software updates (watchOS 10), affecting how brightness is managed across different lighting conditions. Users have noted that both Ultra models exhibit similar dimming issues, suggesting a broader software calibration problem rather than purely hardware limitations[5][6].
Comparison with Other Models
- Series 10 Comparison: The Apple Watch Series 10 also offers up to 2,000 nits of brightness but lacks the Ultra 2's maximum capability. However, it features wider viewing angles which might enhance usability in certain scenarios[6].- Original Ultra vs. Ultra 2: While both models have similar display resolutions and sizes, the Ultra 2âs enhanced brightness makes it more suitable for outdoor activities. Yet, user feedback indicates that some might prefer the original model for indoor use due to its perceived better performance in low-light conditions[3][4].
In summary, while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 excels in maximum brightness and outdoor visibility, user experiences highlight ongoing challenges with its ambient light sensor performance in low-light environments. Many users are calling for adjustments to allow greater control over screen brightness settings.
Citations:[1] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255146215
[2] https://www.zdnet.com/article/the-apple-watch-ultra-2-is-a-near-perfect-smartwatch-for-me-and-its-80-off-for-black-friday/
[3] https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/apple-watch-ultra-2-review-a-brighter-screen-makes-my-favorite-watch-better/
[4] https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/apple-apple-watch-ultra-2-vs-apple-watch-ultra/
[5] https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/apple-watch-ultra-display-too-dim-in-low-light-say-some-users.2405905/
[6] https://appleinsider.com/inside/apple-watch-series-10/vs/apple-watch-series-10-vs-apple-watch-ultra-2---comparing-the-biggest-wearables
[7] https://www.reddit.com/r/applewatchultra/comments/18800p0/day_1_with_ultra_2_may_return_to_my_series_4/
[8] https://top-vs.co.uk/apple-watch-ultra-2-vs-1/
[9] https://www.apple.com/ml/newsroom/2023/09/apple-unveils-apple-watch-ultra-2/
[10] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9uNW_8RPaI