Apple Watch Ultra Titanium Milanese Loop shipping estimates stretch to November, low in-store availability
Tom Sykes
Posted On 23/09/2024 
Shipping estimates for Apple’s new Titanium Milanese Loop strap, designed for the Apple Watch Ultra, have slipped to mid-November in some countries, with reports of low in-store availability.
A check of the online Apple Store by The Apple Post shows that the 49mm Titanium Milanese Loop in both Natural and Black finishes won’t be available until at least early November in the UK, US, Spain, Germany, France, Australia, and Canada. Availability improves slightly when purchased with an Apple Watch Ultra, though not by much.
A deeper look into Titanium Milanese Loop availability shows that very few Apple Store locations had the bands in stock for walk-in customers on launch day. So far, Apple hasn’t released the Apple Watch Ultra Titanium Milanese Loop to third-party resellers as a standalone accessory. Only the Apple Watch Ultra bundled with the Titanium Milanese Loop is available at retailers like Best Buy, though shipping estimates still span several weeks.
Apple announced the new Titanium Milanese Loop earlier this month. The strap features an aerospace-grade titanium mesh with a parachute-style buckle. “The new Titanium Milanese Loop is the first metal band for Apple Watch Ultra, inspired by mesh historically used by divers and stylish enough for any occasion,” says Apple. “Woven from the same aerospace-grade titanium as the case, the band is lightweight and corrosion-resistant. A custom process of weaving, flattening, laser-welding, grinding, and finely polishing the titanium wire results in precise, interlinking lozenge shapes that provide a luxurious drape, complete with a dual-button, parachute-style buckle secure enough for all water sports.”
While it’s not uncommon for new Apple Watch bands to face extended shipping estimates post-launch, the Apple Watch Ultra Titanium Milanese Loop seems to be experiencing some supply constraints. Apple may be prioritizing the supply of bundled Apple Watch Ultra models over standalone straps, or there could be delays from factories in Asia.
As part of Apple’s 2030 carbon-neutral vision, the company is transporting more products using less carbon-intensive methods, such as rail and ocean freight, rather than air transport. While better for the environment, this can extend shipping times compared to air transport and may be contributing to the current short supply.
For now, all that can be done for those looking to get their hands on the new Titanium Milanese Loop for the Apple Watch Ultra is sit and wait.
