Apple’s next move in the smartwatch realm could be quite a game-changer. While the highly anticipated launch event for the iPhone 16 series only introduced the Series 10 smartwatch, tech enthusiasts are buzzing with rumors about another potential release: the Apple Watch SE 3.
Industry insider Mark Gurman hints that Apple’s working on making this new SE model even more wallet-friendly. The secret sauce? A potential switch from the usual aluminum body to a plastic frame. This material change isn’t just about cost-cutting; it could also pave the way for a burst of vibrant colors, reminiscent of Apple’s playful palette with the iPhone 5c.
Historically, Apple released the second-generation Watch SE alongside the Series 8, and since then, the lineup has expanded with additions like the Watch Ultra 2 and Series 9. However, the third-generation SE has been conspicuously absent. Many expected its debut at the recent September event, but the spotlight remained solely on the Series 10, with no word on a new SE or even a successor to the Watch Ultra 2.
Currently, the Watch SE 2 stands as Apple’s most affordable smartwatch offering, with prices starting at $250 for the 40 mm model and $280 for the 44 mm version. Adding cellular connectivity bumps the price by $50 for each model. The introduction of a plastic-bodied SE 3 could potentially lower these price points even further, making it an enticing option for budget-conscious consumers.
But affordability might not be the only upgrade on the horizon. Gurman suggests that the new Apple Watch SE could also feature a more powerful chipset. The current Watch SE 2 runs on the Apple S8 SiP, the same chip found in the 2022 Series 8. While there’s speculation about the new SE possibly adopting the S9 chip from the Series 9, it remains to be seen if it will boast the latest S10.
Apple’s strategic moves with the Watch SE line indicate a keen focus on offering more accessible yet feature-rich wearables. These potential enhancements to both the design and internals of the Apple Watch SE 3 could significantly broaden its appeal, capturing the interest of a wider audience.
Abid, a seasoned technophile, brings a wealth of knowledge and an insatiable curiosity to the tech reporting world. His journey began with assembling his first PC, and today he remains dedicated to delivering transparent, accurate, and unbiased tech news.
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