Apple is set to unveil its next-generation budget smartwatch, the Apple Watch SE 3, alongside its more premium counterparts this September. As anticipation builds, here’s a comprehensive overview of what to expect from this affordable addition to the Apple Watch lineup.
Release Date and Availability
The Apple Watch SE 3 is expected to make its debut in September, coinciding with the launch of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro series. Historically, Apple reveals its smartwatches in tandem with its major iPhone releases. Following this pattern, the SE 3 should become available by late September or early October. Although the launch timeline may shift, the SE 3 is unlikely to deviate significantly from this schedule.
Pricing Expectations
The current Apple Watch SE, now in its second generation, is priced at $249 for the 40mm model and $279 for the 44mm version. Speculation suggests that the SE 3 might adopt a more cost-effective design, potentially using a rigid plastic shell similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Watch FE, which is priced at $199. This move could help Apple stay competitive in the budget smartwatch market.
Design and Size
Reports indicate that the Apple Watch SE 3 may retain the design language of the Series 8, featuring slimmer bezels and possibly larger display options of 41mm and 45mm. This design evolution would increase the display area by nearly 20%, providing users with a more immersive visual experience while keeping the cost manageable.
Features
Under the hood, the SE 3 is expected to benefit from advancements in Apple’s technology. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests that the new model could incorporate a next-generation System in Package (SiP), potentially paving the way for future AI enhancements. Although AI capabilities are not anticipated immediately, the SE 3 may feature the S9 chip found in the latest Series 9 and Ultra models, reflecting a significant performance upgrade from the S8 chip in the current SE 2.
Additionally, the SE 3 may include fast-charging capabilities introduced with the Series 7 and the updated optical heart sensor from the Series 6. These enhancements would align the SE 3 more closely with its higher-end counterparts, offering improved functionality and convenience.
Battery Life
The existing Apple Watch SE models, along with the Series 9, claim up to 18 hours of battery life. While Apple is unlikely to reduce this figure for the SE 3, there is room for improvement. Given that some budget fitness trackers on the Android side offer extended battery life, Apple might explore ways to enhance the SE 3’s endurance, although this remains speculative.
watchOS 11
The SE 3 will run on watchOS 11, the latest iteration of Apple’s wearable operating system. This update introduces several new features, including a Vitals app for health monitoring and customizable Activity Rings. While advanced AI functionalities are not included in this release, the OS promises enhanced user experience and functionality for the new smartwatch.
As Apple gears up for its upcoming launch event, the Apple Watch SE 3 stands poised to offer an attractive combination of performance and value, catering to a broader range of users while retaining the core attributes that have defined Apple’s smartwatch offerings.
