What to Expect from the Apple Watch SE 2024: Plastic Design, Features, and Price Breakdown
In the fast-paced world of wearable technology, the Apple Watch has long dominated the market. However, the spotlight now turns toward a potentially game-changing release: the Apple Watch SE 2024. Rumors suggest that this next-generation Apple Watch SE will come with significant changes, including a switch to a plastic Apple Watch SE design. As the anticipation builds for this release next year, consumers are eager to know how this model will stack up in terms of design, features, and affordability.
This blog will cover everything we know so far, including insights into the Apple Watch SE price, new design choices, and how it compares to the Apple Watch Series 8. By the end, you’ll be able to assess whether the next-gen Apple Watch SE will be the right fit for your needs.
Apple Watch SE 2024 Release: What We Know So Far
The Apple Watch SE 2024 release is expected sometime next year, although an exact date has not yet been confirmed. Originally, it was thought that the next-gen SE would debut alongside the Series 10 at Apple’s September 2024 event. However, due to some unexpected delays, the SE was notably absent, pushing its release into the following year(TechRadar).
This next-gen Apple Watch SE is expected to be the third iteration in the SE lineup. Following the 2020 debut and 2022 refresh, the SE series has been praised for offering many of the core Apple Watch features at a more affordable price. Apple is likely to follow this trend, but this time, they may introduce significant changes to the materials used.
Apple Watch SE Plastic Design: A Game-Changer?
One of the most intriguing rumors surrounding the Apple Watch SE 2024 is the potential switch to a plastic case. The Apple Watch SE plastic model would mark a departure from the aluminum shell that has been standard for previous SE models. Apple insiders suggest that this plastic Apple Watch SE will be made from a “rigid plastic,” likely a type of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP), which is both durable and lightweight(TechRadar)(MacRumors).
The shift to plastic could offer several advantages. For one, it would allow Apple to lower production costs, which could lead to a more affordable Apple Watch SE price. This would align with Apple’s efforts to compete directly with budget-friendly competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Watch FE(TechRadar). Furthermore, the use of plastic could open up new Apple Watch SE colors, potentially offering a more vibrant range that appeals to younger or more cost-conscious consumers.
However, this design choice raises concerns. Would a plastic case compromise the durability or premium feel of the Apple Watch? Apple’s shift to plastic could be seen as a double-edged sword, lowering the price but possibly affecting the long-term durability of the watch. Given Apple’s emphasis on sustainability, some have also questioned whether moving away from recyclable aluminum goes against the company’s environmental pledges(MacRumors).
Apple Watch SE Price: Will It Be More Affordable?
The potential shift to plastic is expected to significantly affect the Apple Watch SE price. Currently, the 2022 Apple Watch SE starts at $249, but with the switch to a cheaper material, there is speculation that the next-gen Apple Watch SE could start as low as $200(TechRadar). This price point would make it one of the most affordable Apple Watches yet, broadening its appeal to budget-conscious consumers.
Apple may follow one of two strategies: either keeping the Apple Watch SE price at around $249 while adding more features, or lowering the price to around $199 to make it more competitive with other budget wearables(MacRumors). Both strategies would allow Apple to attract different segments of the market, from casual users to those seeking a fitness-focused smartwatch at an affordable price.
Apple Watch SE vs. Series 8: Key Differences in Features
When considering an Apple Watch, many consumers will compare the Apple Watch SE vs. Series 8 to determine which model offers better value. The Apple Watch SE has always been a more budget-friendly option, lacking some of the premium features found in the higher-end models. However, that gap may widen further with the introduction of a plastic Apple Watch SE.
Apple Watch SE Features:
- No Always-On Display: One of the key differences between the SE and the Series 8 is the absence of an Always-On Display. This feature allows users to view time and notifications without fully activating the screen, a staple of higher-end models(TechRadar)(9to5Mac).
- Limited Health Monitoring: While the SE includes basic health monitoring features like heart rate tracking and fall detection, it lacks the advanced sensors found in the Series 8, such as ECG (electrocardiogram) monitoring and blood oxygen measurement(MacRumors).
- Processor and Performance: The Apple Watch SE specs are expected to receive a boost with the latest version. The current SE model already uses the same processor as the Series 8, and the next-gen Apple Watch SE is likely to continue this trend with an upgraded chip, providing better performance without the premium price tag(9to5Mac).
Apple Watch Series 8 Features:
- Advanced Health Monitoring: The Series 8 is packed with health-tracking features like ECG and blood oxygen monitoring, making it a great choice for users who prioritize health data(MacRumors).
- Premium Build: With an aluminum or stainless steel case, the Series 8 offers a more premium feel, and it is more resistant to wear and tear compared to the expected plastic casing of the SE.
- Always-On Display: A standout feature for those who want seamless access to their watch without constantly tapping the screen.
Apple Watch SE Colors and Customization Options
Another area where the Apple Watch SE plastic model could stand out is in its range of available colors. While previous models have come in a limited selection of colors, a plastic body would allow Apple to experiment with more vibrant and youthful hues(TechRadar). This would be a significant shift, appealing to younger consumers or those who prioritize personalizing their devices.
Potential Apple Watch SE colors could include bold shades like blue, green, and yellow, alongside more neutral options like black and white. This customization could give the SE a unique selling point, helping it compete in a market where wearables are as much about fashion as they are about functionality.
Final Thoughts: Is the Plastic Apple Watch SE Worth the Wait?
As the Apple Watch SE 2024 release approaches, anticipation is building around Apple’s decision to switch to plastic. While this change could offer benefits like a lower Apple Watch SE price and new Apple Watch SE colors, it also raises questions about durability and Apple’s commitment to sustainability. For many, the deciding factor will be how this model compares to the Apple Watch Series 8 in terms of features, performance, and price.
If Apple successfully strikes the right balance between cost and functionality, the next-gen Apple Watch SE could become the best cheap Apple Watch option on the market. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly wearable or are intrigued by the possibility of new design choices, the Apple Watch SE 2024 will be one to watch.
For more insights on the latest Apple releases and tech trends, visit Regent Studies, where we provide in-depth coverage and expert analysis.
For further reading on the potential changes to the Apple Watch SE, check out this article from TechRadar.
