Last month, rumors began circulating that Apple would be testing a new “hard plastic” case for the next-generation Apple Watch SE. While this would undoubtedly reduce costs, it’s questionable whether the tradeoff will be worth it to customers.
The History of the Apple Watch SE
Apple launched the Apple Watch SE in 2020, alongside the Apple Watch Series 6. It started at $279, with the same display, aluminum case, and ceramic back as the Series 6. It lacked an Always-On display, used an older processor, and also didn’t support reading your electrocardiogram (ECG). However, with the Apple Watch Series 6 starting at $399, it was still a pretty good deal, especially compared to the archaic Apple Watch Series 3 that Apple was still selling for $199.
In 2022, Apple refreshed the Apple Watch SE, which started at $249, making it a bit cheaper than the previous model. With this model, Apple updated it to use the same chipset as the Apple Watch Series 8, but also switched from a ceramic backing to a new “nylon composite” material, otherwise known as plastic. It still didn’t add support for reading your ECG, or the addition of an Always-On display, but it was a solid refresh that made the Apple Watch more accessible to more people.
Apple Watch SE 3: what’s new?
In this weekend’s Power On newsletter, Mark Gurman reaffirms his report from last month, saying that a move to hard plastic is “increasingly likely.” Gurman also adds that this “could allow for a better color gamut.”
Given that the Apple Watch SE is on a 2-year refresh cycle so far, that likely means we’ll see the third-generation Apple Watch SE next month – alongside the new iPhone 16 range.
The next Apple Watch SE will likely feature a newer processor, either the S9 chip from last year’s Apple Watch Series 9 or the new S10 chip from the upcoming Apple Watch Series 10. Either option would offer a noticeable speed boost for Apple Watch SE users.
It’s possible that we’ll see more improvements with the Apple Watch SE, but nothing else has been mentioned so far. It would be nice if they could introduce ECG, because this technology saves lives and it would be great if it was as accessible as possible.
Switching to plastic: potential savings
With Apple likely switching to a plastic case, Apple will obviously save money on manufacturing, but it remains to be seen whether Apple will pass those savings on to its customers. I could see two different paths with the upcoming Apple Watch SE.
- Option 1: Apple keeps the same price (starting at $249), but adds a few extra features, such as the ability to check your EKG or an always-on display
- Option 2: Apple reduces the price (maybe $199 or $229) and keeps the feature set virtually the same
Of course, it’s always possible that the Apple Watch SE will remain at its current price of $249, without any significant new features. However, I doubt Apple will take that approach. The Apple Watch SE is in a strange position right now, especially considering the frequent deals available for older flagship Apple Watch models.
If the Apple Watch SE 3 focuses on either accessibility or more health features – or better yet both – Apple will likely have a big hit on its hands this year.
Are you looking forward to the upcoming Apple Watch models? Hate the idea of a plastic Apple Watch? Let us know in the comments below.
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