Unveiled at a media presentation Tuesday at the Steve Jobs Theater in Cupertino, Calif., the Apple Watch Series 3 boasts a new dual-core processor with up to 70 percent more performance.
But the real stand-out feature is cellular connectivity, which will let users use features like Apple Music, Beats 1 radio, Find My Friends, Messages and more without an iPhone within range. It will also work with third-party apps like WeChat.
Apple said Apple Music support will arrive next month.
Apple executive Jeff Williams said adding cellular to the Apple Watch proved to be a huge challenge, particularly given the compact size of the wearable device.
"If you don't do it right, it gets so big it looks like a house arrest bracelet," Williams said.
AThe new dual-core processor enables Siri to speak for the first time, so users don't need to look at the screen. And the W2 chip adds 80 percent faster Wi-Fi while being 50 percent more power efficient.
The W2 also includes an altimeter, that tracks flights climbed and should improve apps that track skiing and snowboarding.
The Apple Watch with cellular starts at $399 for a 38-millimeter casing, while a 42-millimeter model with cellular is $429.
In the U.S., the cellular models will be compatible with AT&T, Verizon, Sprint and T-Mobile. Williams said carriers will offer special entry plans.
An Apple Watch Series 3 without cellular will also be offered starting at $329. And the Apple Watch Series 1 remains in the lineup, with the price dropped to $249.
Apple also has a new sport loop band coming, designed for an active lifestyle. And Nike+ has exclusive new colors with a new version of Nike+ Run Club app forthcoming.
For the ceramic Apple Watch Series 3, Apple is also introducing a new grey finish. Both white and gray come with pebble sport bands and are priced at $1,299.
Finally, there will also be new colors for bands, and new Hermes watch face styles and bands.
Preorders for the Apple Watch Series 3 begin on Sept. 15, and the product officially launches on Friday, Sept. 22.
The Apple Watch Series 3 ships with watchOS 4, which will also become available to all other Apple Watch owners on Sept. 19.