Apple's all-black Ocean Band for Apple Watch Ultra 3: Best Buy deal at 20% off

Apple's official all-black Ocean Band for Apple Watch Ultra 3 and older is now available at a rare discount of 20% off the regular price of $99. The deal is available at Best Buy for $79.99 shipped. Additionally, open-box units are available for even cheaper, starting at $61.99 shipped. These deals are extremely rare and are unlikely to last long.

Apple has introduced its latest iteration in the high-end smartwatch lineup, the Apple Watch Ultra 3, marking a significant step forward in blending advanced connectivity with endurance-focused design. The device, announced on September 9, 2025, incorporates several innovative features that cater specifically to adventurers and professionals who demand reliability in extreme conditions Apple Watch Ultra 3: Satellite Messaging, 5G, and 72-Hour Battery for $799^[1].

One of the standout features is the integration of satellite connectivity, allowing users to send emergency messages or texts without cellular service. This capability, tailored for wrist-based use, echoes the iPhone’s satellite messaging feature, enhancing safety and communication in remote areas Apple Watch Ultra 3: Satellite Messaging, 5G, and 72-Hour Battery for $799^[1]. Additionally, the watch boasts up to 42 hours of standard use and extends to 72 hours in low-power mode, addressing one of the primary pain points for users engaged in multi-day activities like hiking or diving Apple Watch Ultra 3: Satellite Messaging, 5G, and 72-Hour Battery for $799^[1].

The inclusion of 5G cellular support is another significant upgrade, enabling faster data speeds for streaming, navigation, and calls directly from the wrist. This Reduced Capability 5G, or RedCap, is designed for wearables, promising better efficiency and lower latency compared to previous LTE options Apple Watch Ultra 3: Satellite Messaging, 5G, and 72-Hour Battery for $799^[1]. This connectivity breakthrough positions the Ultra 3 as a more independent device, reducing reliance on a paired iPhone for connectivity-intensive tasks.

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 also features a larger 49mm screen with LTPO3 OLED technology, delivering 40% brighter visuals from angled views. This upgrade enhances readability in bright outdoor environments and complements thinner borders for a more immersive experience Apple Watch Ultra 3: Satellite Messaging, 5G, and 72-Hour Battery for $799^[1]. On the health front, the watch introduces hypertension warnings and advanced sleep scoring, leveraging AI-driven algorithms to provide insights into blood pressure trends and sleep quality Apple Watch Ultra 3: Satellite Messaging, 5G, and 72-Hour Battery for $799^[1].

Priced starting at $799, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 maintains its premium positioning. The device is available for pre-order shortly after the announcement and will be available from September 19 Apple Watch Ultra 3: Satellite Messaging, 5G, and 72-Hour Battery for $799^[1]. This pricing reflects the added value of 5G and satellite features, which could appeal to enterprise users in fields like search and rescue or remote fieldwork Apple Watch Ultra 3: Satellite Messaging, 5G, and 72-Hour Battery for $799^[1].

Analysts from MacRumors note that while not revolutionary, these updates solidify the Ultra line’s dominance in the adventure smartwatch segment Apple Watch Ultra 3: Satellite Messaging, 5G, and 72-Hour Battery for $799^[1]. The watch’s modular band system and customizable action button continue to offer personalization, enhancing its appeal for niche activities Apple Watch Ultra 3: Satellite Messaging, 5G, and 72-Hour Battery for $799^[1].

Early hands-on reports praise the device’s durability and intuitive interface, though some note the lack of radical design changes from the Ultra 2 Apple Watch Ultra 3: Satellite Messaging, 5G, and 72-Hour Battery for $799^[1]. User sentiment on platforms like X leans positive, with discussions around the 42-hour battery life addressing previous complaints Apple Watch Ultra 3: Satellite Messaging, 5G, and 72-Hour Battery for $799^[1].

In parallel to the Apple Watch Ultra 3 launch, Best Buy is offering a rare discount on the official all-black Ocean Band for Apple Watch Ultra 3 and older. The deal is available at a 20% discount, bringing the price down to $79.99 shipped. Open-box units are available for even cheaper, starting at $61.99 shipped .