For the past few weeks, rumors have been circulating that Apple is testing a new “hard plastic” case for the upcoming third-generation Apple Watch SE. Originally scheduled for last week’s iPhone 16 and Apple Watch 10 event, its release has been unexpectedly delayed. But what will the new design bring, other than a reduction in production costs?
The evolution of the Apple Watch SE
Apple launched the first Apple Watch SE in September 2020, alongside the Apple Watch Series 6. Priced at $329, it featured the same display, aluminum case, and ceramic back as the Series 6, but without the display. always-on (still on), with an older processor, and no EKG. Despite these shortcomings, the SE offered good value for money, especially compared to the Apple Watch Series 3, which still sold for €249 at the time.
In 2022, Apple updated the SE, dropping its price to $299. The Apple Watch SE 2 featured the same S8 chip as the Apple Watch Series 8, but saw its ceramic back replaced with a nylon composite plastic material. It still lacked the ECG and always-on display, but offered an even more accessible entry point.
Apple Watch SE 3: What’s new?
In his last Sunday letter, Power On “, Mark Gurman confirmed that the move to a hard plastic case for the Apple Watch SE 3 is “increasingly likely.” Easier to produce, this type of case would have the advantage of allowing for a wider range of colors, making the device more appealing to a younger audience.
Originally expected alongside the Series 10, the future SE is still in development and could be launched next year according to the American journalist. Apple’s production team has encountered challenges related to the transition to plastic, which explains part of the additional delay.
The upcoming SE model is expected to feature a new processor, likely an S9 chip, which will provide better performance. Other improvements are possible, though there are no specific rumors at this point. The addition of ECG functionality would be a welcome addition, as it’s a potentially life-saving feature and could make the SE more appealing to a wider audience. Since its introduction on the Series 4, this sensor should have been largely written off.
A more affordable price
Coming back to the plastic case, there is no doubt that it will drastically reduce manufacturing costs for Apple. It remains to be seen whether the company will pass this change on to the final price. The company may lower the price by €30 to €50 or choose to add features like the ECG.
In both cases, the Apple Watch SE 3 will be a bestseller, unless the American company takes care of its margin…
