Apple Apple Watch Ultra customizable action buttons can launch shortcuts and also support these features

Later this week, Apple will launch the Apple Watch Ultra premium watch, a more rugged and powerful smartwatch for explorers, adventurers and athletes. one of the many unique features of the $6,299 watch is the addition of a third button, called the action button. it home has learned that the new action button is presented in high-contrast international orange and allows for easy The new action button is presented in high-contrast international orange and allows for easy customization of settings for quick access to a variety of functions, including physical training, compass waypoints, backtracking and more.

Location of Action Buttons

The "International Orange" colored indented pill-shaped action button is located next to the display on the left side of the Apple Watch Ultra titanium case, between the dual speakers and the alarm.

Activating the alarm

Pressing and holding the action button activates the built-in 86-decibel siren, which can be heard up to 600 feet (180 meters) away and is used to get help in an emergency.

Custom Actions

The action button is also customizable, which means it can perform any function the user configures for it. Apple Watch Ultra users can select the initial function for the action button when setting up the device. Later, they can adjust this selection in Settings, where a new section lists the apps that support the button.

Examples of Apple's action button configurations include Launch Back (which uses GPS data to create a path of where the user has been so steps can be retraced), Start Workout and Start Dive.

Action buttons can also be assigned to system-level functions such as turning the flashlight on and off, marking compass waypoints or starting a stopwatch. In addition, Apple Watch Ultra users can pause the current function by pressing the action button and the side button at the same time.

Assigning Shortcuts

Because action buttons are powered by Apple's new App Intents API, announced at WWDC in June, Apple Watch Ultra users can also assign shortcuts to them, leading to great customization potential, such as the ability to control smart home accessories.