September 21, 2026, 5:15 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
Apple significantly speeds up charging for the new Apple Watch. However, the maximum speed is only available with a new charging puck.
With the Apple Watch Series 12 and the Apple Watch Ultra 4, Apple introduces a faster charging solution. The new models can absorb more energy in a shorter time than their predecessors. To benefit from this, however, you need not only the new watch but also the appropriate accessories.
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As reported by sources such as “MacRumors,” Apple uses a new magnetic charging puck for this. It supports higher power than previous models. Additionally, Apple recommends a USB-C power adapter with at least 20 watts. The new charging cable is included with the watches, but additional ones must be purchased separately.
The first few minutes offer the most benefits
The higher charging power is especially noticeable right after connecting. According to Apple, the Apple Watch Series 12 gains up to 12 hours of additional battery life after just 15 minutes of charging. For the Apple Watch Ultra 4, up to 18 hours are possible.
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The difference is significant compared to previous generations. The new models can absorb more energy in a short time, making them ready for use again more quickly. This is especially practical when there is little time to charge between uses.
The total charging time decreases only slightly
Despite the higher power, the total charging time apparently decreases only slightly. According to Apple, the Apple Watch Series 12 still reaches about 80 percent charge after around 30 minutes. The Apple Watch Ultra 4 takes about 45 minutes for the same.
The real advancement, therefore, is not in a significantly shorter overall duration but in the higher charging speed at the beginning of the charging process. At the same time, this change means that older charging pucks cannot achieve the new best speeds. To utilize the maximum speed, the new accessories are necessary.