Apple Watch SE 3 release date expectations, price estimates, and upgrades
Apple Watch SE 2 (2022) | Image credit – PhoneArena
*probable dates
*probable prices
(44 x 38 x 10.7 mm)
(41 x 35 x 10.7 mm)
(41 x 35 x 10.7 mm)
the average is 6.3 oz (180 g)
the average is 6.3 oz (180 g)
the average is 6.3 oz (180 g)
Right now, the SE 2 uses Ion-X glass for its screen, which has been known to scratch pretty easily. Here's hoping Apple steps it up with the SE 3 and gives us a more durable display for a better overall experience.
What we know so far
Apple has made the Apple Watch SE models stand out by offering great features at a more budget-friendly price. As the Apple Watch SE 2 (2022) starts to feel a little behind the times, all eyes are on the upcoming Apple Watch SE 3, expected to drop later this year, likely alongside the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and the iPhone 17 series this fall.
That said, there's already plenty of buzz surrounding the next SE model, with rumors suggesting it will take on the stylish design of the Apple Watch Series 8. This includes bigger display and updated casing sizes. We are also expecting an upgrade to the S9 chip, at the very least.
The Apple Watch SE 3 is shaping up to be an exciting upgrade, with rumors hinting at enhanced sensors, fresh features and quicker charging capabilities. While specifics remain under wraps, leaks and Apple's past patterns give us a few hints about what to expect.
Plus, as we move closer to its potential launch, more details are likely to surface, shedding light on Apple's next affordable smartwatch. Stay tuned for the latest updates!
Jump to:
Apple Watch SE 3 release date
All signs point to the Watch SE 3 launching in September 2025, with reliable sources backing up this timeline.
| Device model | Release date |
|---|---|
| Apple Watch SE 1 | September, 2020 |
| Apple Watch SE 2 | September, 2022 |
| Apple Watch SE 3 | September, 2025* |
Apple tends to stick to a two-year cycle for its SE models: the original Watch SE launched in 2020, followed by the second generation in 2022. However, the tech giant did not launched the third generation as previously expected alongside the iPhone 16 series and the Apple Watch Series 10.
So, obviously, Apple has decided to mix things up and push back the release. This likely means we will get our hands on the new SE model sometime later this year, probably around September.
Apple Watch SE 3 price
| Device model | 40mm | 44mm |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Watch SE 1 | From $279 | From $309 |
| Apple Watch SE 2 | From $249 | From $279 |
| Apple Watch SE 3 | From $249* | From $279* |
One thing's for sure: the Apple Watch SE 3 will be more budget-friendly compared to the latest Apple Watch Series 10. The current SE model starts at $249 and it would be great to see the new version stick to a similar price without any increases.
According to trusted Apple insider Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, the Watch SE 3 might even be cheaper than its predecessor, which would be a pleasant surprise.
Apple has reportedly been testing a switch from aluminum to rigid plastic for the next-generation SE, possibly to lower costs and better compete with Samsung’s more affordable Galaxy Watch FE, which is priced at $199. If these rumors hold true, it could make the SE 3 a fantastic value for those looking for a budget-friendly option.
Apple has reportedly been testing a switch from aluminum to rigid plastic for the next-generation SE, possibly to lower costs and better compete with Samsung’s more affordable Galaxy Watch FE, which is priced at $199. If these rumors hold true, it could make the SE 3 a fantastic value for those looking for a budget-friendly option.
Apple Watch SE 3 design
Design
Dimensions
(44 x 38 x 10.7 mm)
(41 x 35 x 10.7 mm)
(41 x 35 x 10.7 mm)
Weight
the average is 6.3 oz (180 g)
the average is 6.3 oz (180 g)
the average is 6.3 oz (180 g)
Materials
Frame: Aluminum
Back: Ceramic
Frame: Aluminum
Frame: Aluminum
Back: Ceramic
Frame: Aluminum
Frame: Aluminum
Resistance
Water, Dust; IP6X
Water, Dust; IP6X
Water, Dust; IP6X
See the full Apple Watch SE (2022) vs Apple Watch Series 9 (41mm) vs Apple Watch Series 9 (45mm) specs comparison or compare them to other smartwatches using our Smartwatch Comparison Tool.
When it comes to design, analyst David Hsieh from Omdia has shared some insights suggesting that the SE 3 might mirror the size options of the Apple Watch Series 8, which also means the last year's Watch Series 9. This means we could see it in 41 mm and 45 mm case sizes, compared to the 40 mm and 44 mm sizes of the current SE model.
And, as I mentioned earlier, Apple's insider Mark Gurman has shared an intriguing tidbit as well: Apple might consider swapping the SE 3's usual aluminum body for plastic. While the tech giant typically opts for metal and glass to maintain a premium feel, using plastic could significantly lower costs, potentially making the SE 3 even more affordable.
Apple Watch SE 3 display
Display
Size
Technology
OLED
OLED
OLED
Screen-to-body
61.24 %
63.01 %
63.01 %
Peak brightness
2000 cd/m2 (nit)
1000 cd/m2 (nit)
1000 cd/m2 (nit)
See the full Apple Watch SE (2022) vs Apple Watch Series 9 (41mm) vs Apple Watch Series 9 (45mm) specs comparison or compare them to other smartwatches using our Smartwatch Comparison Tool.
If the Apple Watch SE 3 sticks to the size choices of the Series 8, we could be looking at almost 20% more screen space. Regardless of the size, you can count on a bright Retina display with OLED tech, delivering those rick blacks and vibrant colors, just like the last version.
Right now, the SE 2 uses Ion-X glass for its screen, which has been known to scratch pretty easily. Here's hoping Apple steps it up with the SE 3 and gives us a more durable display for a better overall experience.
Apple Watch SE 3 battery
| Device model | Size | Battery |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Watch Series 9 | 45mm | 308mAh |
| Apple Watch Series 9 | 41mm | 282mAh |
| Apple Watch SE 2 | 44mm | 282mAh |
| Apple Watch SE 2 | 40mm | 245mAh |
While we don't have the exact battery details for the Apple Watch SE 3 yet, it is safe to assume it will offer a battery life similar to the current model. That means you can expect it to easily last a full day of moderate use, with enough power left to carry you into the next day.
As for charging, there might be some improvements. The Apple Watch Series 7 introduced fast charging, which gets you up to 80% in about 45 minutes. This feature wasn’t available on the SE 2, but it’s possible Apple could include it in the SE 3.
Apple Watch SE 3 features and software
The Apple Watch SE 3 is expected to carry forward the features from its predecessor, including:
- A variety of watch faces: Choose from many designs to customize your watch’s look.
- Support for watchOS apps: Access a range of apps like Reminders, Activity, Messages, Heart Rate, Settings, and Mail, plus many more from the App Store.
- Heart rate tracking: Get notifications for high and low heart rates.
- Activity tracking: Monitor calories burned, steps taken, distance walked, sleep, and even cycle tracking.
- Siri: Always accessible right on your wrist.
- Fall detection and crash detection: Enhanced safety features.
- Family Setup: Pair the watch with your iPhone but let your kids use it.
However, don't get your hopes up for features like an always-on display, Blood Oxygen tracking, ECG or body temperature sensing on the SE 3. Just like the previous SE models, it will likely stick to the basics of health tracking, while the more advanced features are saved for the main Apple Watch series.
If there are any new health features, ECG tracking is probably the most likely to make the cut, especially since it first appeared with the Series 4 back in 2018.
For software, the Watch SE 3 will likely launch with watchOS 11, which will bring new AI-driven features like automatically selecting a watch face from your photos, as well as updates for health and fitness, including the new Training Load function and a standalone Vitals app.
Apple Watch SE 3 hardware
The second-generation Apple Watch SE is powered by the S8 chip, which is built on the A13 Bionic. For the third-gen Apple Watch SE, we’re expecting an upgrade to at least the S9 chip, which is based on the A15 Bionic. There’s even a chance it could come with the S10 chip, which debuted with the latest Apple Watch Series 10.
If Apple goes with the S10, we might see some exciting advancements like on-device processing for Siri commands and a potential leap toward Apple Intelligence features in the future. Additionally, Apple could finally update the optical heart sensor on the budget-friendly Apple Watch SE.
Should you wait for the Apple Watch SE 3?
- You should wait for the Apple Watch SE 3 if you’re still using an older Apple Watch or are thinking about getting your first one but don’t want to splurge. Or maybe if you aren’t sure if wearing a smartwatch will be your thing. The Watch SE 3 could also be a perfect option for children. Plus, considering that the Watch SE 3 is expected at a lower price, waiting for it is a better decision than getting the current model.
- You should not wait for the Apple Watch SE 3 if you've recently gotten a new smartwatch and are perfectly fine using it for several years to come. Also, if you want more advanced features and a premium feel, which can be found in Apple’s main Watch series, it’s better to go for one of those models.
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