Apple Watch SE May Get A Fresh Look This Year

Last year, Apple initiated a design overhaul for its line of smartwatches, beginning with the Apple Watch Series 10. As part of this evolution, the company is now looking to implement a similar redesign for the upcoming Apple Watch SE, set to launch later this year.

In a recent edition of his PowerOn newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman hinted at a makeover for the budget-friendly smartwatch. He noted, “A new version of the lower-end SE model will feature a different aesthetic.”

Gurman did not delve into the specifics of what changes consumers might anticipate from the next Apple Watch SE. However, a previous report from Bloomberg suggested that the traditional aluminum casing might be replaced with plastic.

“This could be an effort to lower production costs,” indicated the report. Although it’s uncertain if Apple will lower the retail price, the inclusion of plastic could potentially balance the expenses associated with newer, more advanced components.

Currently, the Apple Watch SE starts at $249 in the U.S. In comparison, Samsung’s Galaxy Watch FE is priced at $200, while the Galaxy Watch 6 — which includes numerous features — is only $50 more than the Apple Watch SE.

If Apple indeed opts for a plastic body — which is still a big assumption — it will be interesting to evaluate how well the build quality holds up against the aluminum models that have been used in the past.

Plastic may be more prone to scratches, but it might also provide a more aesthetically pleasing appearance compared to the marks left on a painted metal surface. Additionally, with the shift to plastic, there could be an exciting range of vibrant new color options, reminiscent of the iPhone 5c!

An upgraded processor is anticipated, though it’s still unclear whether the new design will introduce a larger display, a bigger battery, or a thinner profile.

When it comes to features, major upgrades are not expected. The ECG functionality is likely to remain exclusive to the more expensive mainline and Ultra models, where it serves as a key wellness feature.

However, if Apple finally delivers on blood pressure monitoring this year, there’s a chance some of the previously premium health and wellness capabilities could filter down to the Apple Watch SE lineup.