JAKARTA - In July, reports began to emerge that Apple was testing a new "rigid plastic" body for the next-generation Apple Watch SE. While this would reduce costs, there are questions about whether the compromise would be worth it for customers.
Apple introduced the Apple Watch SE in 2020, alongside the Apple Watch Series 6. Starting at $279, it features the same display, aluminum case, and ceramic back as the Series 6. However, the Apple Watch SE lacks the Always-On Display feature, uses an older processor, and does not support electrocardiogram (ECG) readings. Still, with the Apple Watch Series 6 starting at $399, the Apple Watch SE is still a great option, especially compared to the Apple Watch Series 3 which retails for $199.
In 2022, Apple updated the Apple Watch SE starting at $249, slightly cheaper than the previous model. Apple updated the device with the same chipset as the Apple Watch Series 8, but changed the back from ceramic to a “nylon composite,” also known as plastic. While it still doesn’t support ECG readings and doesn’t have an Always-On Display, the update makes the Apple Watch more affordable for more people.
Apple Watch SE 3: What's New?
In this weekend’s Power On newsletter, Mark Gurman reiterated his report from last month, stating that a switch to rigid plastic is “increasingly likely.” Gurman also added that this “could allow for better color options.”
With the Apple Watch SE’s 2-year update cycle, it’s likely that the third-generation Apple Watch SE will launch next month alongside the iPhone 16.
The next Apple Watch SE will likely get 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 would provide a significant speed boost for Apple Watch SE users.
It’s likely that the public will see other improvements to the Apple Watch SE, though there are no other rumors floating around. It would be great if they could introduce ECG, as this technology can save lives and it would be great to make it accessible to more people.
Switching to Plastic
With Apple likely switching to a plastic body, it would save on manufacturing costs. However, it remains to be seen whether Apple will lower the price for customers. There are two possible paths with the upcoming Apple Watch SE.
Option 1: Apple keeps the price the same (starting at $249), but adds additional features, such as the ability to check an electrocardiogram or an Always-On Display.
Option 2: Apple lowers the price (perhaps to $199 or $229), and keeps the feature set largely the same.
Of course, there’s always the possibility that the Apple Watch SE will stick with its current price of $249, without any significant new features. However, it’s unlikely that Apple would take this approach, given the awkward position the Apple Watch SE currently finds itself in, especially with so many deals on older flagship Apple Watch models.
If the Apple Watch SE 3 focuses on affordability or more health features — or better yet, both — Apple could be in for a big hit this year.
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