Apple Watch SE 3 Could Use Plastic Case to Slash Price and Boost Appeal
Apple appears poised to trim the cost of its budget smartwatch by adopting a plastic case for the upcoming Apple Watch SE 3. The move would position the device to compete more effectively with midrange rivals from Samsung, while also broadening the color options available. A Bloomberg report cited by Power On, attributed to insider and journalist Mark Gurman, first outlined these plans.
The price reduction is expected to lift overall Apple product momentum. Analysts suggest lower entry prices can serve as a doorway into the Apple ecosystem, nudging buyers toward iPhones and other Apple devices after trying the watch. In markets across North America, affordability can translate into wider device adoption and greater long-term engagement with the brand.
Gurman indicated that Apple intends to refresh the Watch SE line roughly every two years. Given that the Watch SE 2 launched in 2022, expectations for a Watch SE 3 release have intensified, with some predicting a launch window within the current year. Apple has not disclosed a final retail price for the SE 3, but the sense is that it will undercut the current SE 2 price—commonly pegged at around $250 in the United States for the newer model at launch.
Recent coverage notes that the pricing strategy aligns with Apple’s broader push to offer accessible entry points into its wearable and service ecosystem. The SE series is often highlighted as a more affordable gateway that emphasizes essential features while maintaining a familiar user experience and strong interoperability with other Apple devices.
Context matters for regions like Canada and the United States, where consumer electronics pricing can reflect local duties, taxes, and currency considerations. If the SE 3 uses a cost-saving plastic shell, it could also influence accessory ecosystems, including bands and protective cases, as consumers seek ways to personalize affordable devices without compromising durability. This approach could help Apple reach a broader audience, including students, families, and budget-conscious shoppers who value seamless integration with Apple’s software and services.
Beyond price and materials, observers are watching how Apple will balance performance, battery life, and durability in a model positioned for broad appeal. While a plastic casing might alter the premium feel some users expect, it could be offset by competitive features such as health sensors, a familiar watchOS experience, and strong compatibility with Apple Pay, Fitness+, and iCloud services. The strategic aim remains clear: expand accessibility while preserving a dependable user experience that encourages long-term brand loyalty.
Market dynamics can also influence the pace of adoption in Canada, the United States, and neighboring regions. Retail partnerships, carrier financing options, and promotions tied to holidays or school seasons can all affect how quickly a budget-friendly model gains traction. As rumors solidify into announcements, consumers may weigh how the SE 3 fits with current device portfolios, upgrade cycles, and personal budgets. The potential for a new color range could also make the watch more appealing to younger shoppers seeking a fashionable, affordable wearable as a first Apple device or an accompaniment to a family setup.
In sum, the Apple Watch SE 3 is positioned as a cost-conscious option designed to broaden the brand’s reach without sacrificing essential functionality. While the exact price remains to be confirmed, the direction signals Apple’s intent to keep the SE line relevant, competitive, and capable of drawing new users into the broader Apple ecosystem. Observers will watch closely to see how the final product balances materials, price, performance, and regional market needs, with analysts noting that even small adjustments can ripple through demand across North America. (Cited: Bloomberg via Mark Gurman.)