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Alongside the anticipated updates to the regular and Apple Watch Ultra models expected in late 2024, changes to the Apple Watch SE are also being considered. Since its introduction, a new Apple Watch SE model has been released every two years read more
 "Apple is working on a budget Apple Watch, will make it using a plastic chassis instead of metal")
Apple will be looking for ways to enter the budget market. Even though the Watch SE has been their budget offering for a long time, it still is more expensive than what most fitness trackers cost. Image Credit: Firstpost | Mehul Reuben Das
Apple is reportedly working on a more affordable Apple Watch by using a plastic chassis instead of the current metal one. Testing has been done to replace the metal part of the Apple Watch SE case with a rigid plastic to reduce production costs.
Alongside the anticipated updates to the regular and Apple Watch Ultra models expected in late 2024, changes to the Apple Watch SE are also being considered. Since its introduction, a new Apple Watch SE model has been released every two years.
According to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gruman, this future Apple Watch SE could feature an all-plastic housing to make it cheaper. Currently, the Apple Watch SE sells for $249 in the US or about Rs 29,000 in India. In comparison, the cheapest Galaxy Watch6 that Samsung sells is available for Rs 19,000. Users also have the option to go for an older model, the Galaxy Watch4 Classic LTE for Rs 16,199.
The 2022 model of the Apple Watch SE already incorporated a redesigned back case with a colour-matched “nylon composite” plastic material. If these reports are accurate, the entire chassis might now be plastic, which could raise environmental concerns.
In addition, rumours suggest the upcoming Apple Watch Series 10 will have thinner cases and slightly larger screens. Apple is likely to announce these new models, including the potential Apple Watch SE, in September alongside the iPhone 16.
Apple made a name for itself in the smartwatch industry thanks to a robust feature set that has proven to be a lifesaver for many people over the years. However, it is facing an unprecedented level of competition from more budget-oriented brands that feature some of its most commonly used features. Even though they cannot be categorised as smartwatches per se, they have become extremely popular among people who are looking for budget options.
Moreover, Apple has seen sales of its smartwatch dwindle, especially in the US as it has saturated the market at the pricepoint it operates in. Looking for growth in the global market, Apple tried to go up a tier with the Watch Ultra, walking into a territory that is dominated by Garmin, a player that has been in the space for eons.
In such a scenario, Apple will be looking for ways to enter the budget market. Even though the Watch SE has been their budget offering for a long time, it still is more expensive than what most fitness trackers cost.
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English (US) ·