Apple Watch SE 3: What's Coming in Apple's New Budget Smartwatch?
It seems like it's time for a new Apple Watch SE! The current model hasn't been updated since 2022, so a refresh is definitely in order. If you're like me, you're probably wondering what Apple has in store for its more affordable smartwatch.
One of the most anticipated upgrades is the display. We might see the Apple Watch SE 3 getting slightly larger screens, potentially in 1.6-inch and 1.8-inch sizes. Although it's not a massive jump, it's still a welcome change that could make the watch feel more modern. Remember that the current SE 2 is based on the Apple Watch Series 6 design, with those older 40mm and 44mm sizes. With the Series 7, Apple bumped up the sizes to 41mm and 45mm, and the Series 10 went even further to 42mm and 46mm. So, it's quite possible the SE 3 will adopt the thinner design and slimmer bezels of the Series 7.
Under the Hood
Let's talk about performance! Thanks to a leak (yes, even Apple makes mistakes!), we know the next Apple Watch SE is expected to pack the same S11 chip as the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3. While it might not sound like a huge leap from the S9 and S10, it's a significant upgrade over the S8 chip in the current SE. What this means for you? Faster performance and a more responsive watch overall. With the S11, the Apple Watch SE 3 could even gain features like on-device Siri processing and support for those handy double-tap gestures. It's all about making your experience smoother and more efficient.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Apple Watch SE has always had fewer health features compared to the flagship models. For example, it lacks the ECG app and blood oxygen monitoring. So, if the Series 11 and Ultra 3 introduce new health features, don't expect them to trickle down to the SE 3. However, the SE 3 will likely continue to support core features like heart rate tracking, sleep tracking, and respiratory rate tracking. There's even a possibility it could get sleep apnea detection, as it should have all the necessary hardware. Currently, sleep apnea detection is limited to the Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2.
Other Potential Improvements
There are a few other upgrades that could be in the works. Apple might upgrade the optical heart sensor to the third-generation version first seen in the Apple Watch Series 7. Plus, we could see improvements in battery life, faster charging, and better water resistance. Who wouldn't want a watch that lasts longer and charges quicker? Previously there was rumors about a colorful plastic casing, similar to the iPhone 5c, but that idea seems to have been scrapped. Apparently, the design team wasn't thrilled with the look, and the materials team struggled to make it cheaper than the current aluminum casing. So, it looks like the Apple Watch SE 3 will stick with aluminum.
We probably won't see a price increase. Apple is likely to keep the Apple Watch SE affordable, especially since they've been marketing it to parents for their children. Raising the price could hurt those efforts. So, when can we expect to see this new Apple Watch SE? If the rumors are true, we might see an announcement at Apple's September iPhone event, possibly around September 9. Pre-orders could start on September 12, with a launch on September 19.
Source: Mac Rumors