Apple Watch SE 3 release date expectations, price estimates, and upgrades
Apple Watch SE 2 (2022) | Image credit – PhoneArena
*probable dates
*probable prices
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.
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 could shape up to be a pretty solid upgrade, with rumors hinting at better sensors, new features and even faster charging. Nothing is confirmed yet, but based on leaks and Apple's usual strategy, we can already start putting a few pieces together.
With the launch window approaching, chances are we will be hearing a lot more soon about what Apple's next budget-friendly smartwatch has in store, so stay tuned!
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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. The new smartwatch is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 17 series, with a likely reveal date of September 9 or 10, according to reliable sources. If Apple sticks to its usual timeline, it should hit store shelves shortly after the announcement.
| Device model | Release date |
|---|---|
| Apple Watch SE 1 | September 15, 2020 |
| Apple Watch SE 2 | September 7, 2022 |
| Apple Watch SE 3 | September 9, 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 this year.
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* |
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 Watch SE 3 design
As I mentioned earlier, Apple's insider Mark Gurman has shared an intriguing tidbit: 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
|
|
|
| Apple Watch SE (2022) | Apple Watch Series 9 (41mm) | Apple Watch Series 9 (45mm) |
Display
| Size | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1.8-inch, 61.24% screen-to-body | 1.7-inch, 63.01% screen-to-body | 1.7-inch, 63.01% screen-to-body |
| Type | ||
| OLED, 2000 nits | OLED, 1000 nits | OLED, 1000 nits |
| Resolution | ||
| 448x368px, 322 PPI | 430x352px, 329 PPI | 430x352px, 329 PPI |
See the full
Apple Watch SE (2022) vs Apple Watch Series 9 (41mm) vs Apple Watch Series 9 (45mm) specs comparison
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The next Apple Watch SE might be a bit bigger than before. Rumors say the third-gen SE could come with larger screens, possibly matching the sizes found on the regular Apple Watch models. The screens are said to measure around 1.6 inches and 1.8 inches diagonally.
What does that mean for the watch itself? The current SE, updated in 2022, comes in 40 mm and 44 mm cases. The leaked sizes fit more with the 41 mm and 45 mm cases seen on Apple Watch Series 6 through Series 9, so the SE might be getting a little more room to work with.
Right now, the SE 2 uses Ion-X glass for its display, which is known to scratch pretty easily. It would be great if Apple upgraded the SE 3 with a tougher screen for a more durable and better experience overall.
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.
That said, don't expect the Apple Watch SE 3 to pack in premium features like an always-on display, Blood Oxygen monitoring, ECG or body temperature sensing. Just like the previous SE models, it is likely to focus on the core health and fitness basics, leaving the more advanced stuff for the flagship Apple Watch lineup.
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 the latest watchOS 26, revealed by Apple during WWDC 2025. This update brings some noticeable upgrades in both design and smart features, helping the Apple Watch feel more in sync with the rest of Apple’s lineup – and making everyday use a bit smoother, too.
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 are 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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