Apple has always been known for its premium products, but the tech giant is reportedly working on something more budget-friendly for its popular Apple Watch SE line. Rumors are swirling about the development of a plastic-bodied Apple Watch SE set to launch in 2025, which aims to make the smartwatch even more affordable, while catering to a younger, school-going audience. If you’re curious about this upcoming release, here’s what we know so far.
A Plastic Body for a More Affordable Apple Watch SE?
The Apple Watch SE, first introduced in 2020 and last updated in 2022, is already known as the budget-friendly version of the Apple Watch lineup. However, according to reports from Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, Apple is taking the SE model a step further by creating a plastic-bodied version. This move would make the already affordable SE model even cheaper, expanding Apple’s reach to younger users and cost-conscious buyers.
But why a plastic body? While premium materials like stainless steel and titanium have been standard for Apple’s higher-end watches, plastic could offer significant cost savings, making the Apple Watch SE more accessible. This isn’t the first time Apple has embraced plastic for affordability—the iPhone 5c in 2013 took a similar approach, offering bold colors and a plastic body to cut down costs.
Bold Colors and a Younger Audience
One of the most exciting aspects of this rumor is the potential for “bolder colors” reminiscent of the iPhone 5c. This suggests that Apple may target the younger generation, possibly even school-aged children, with vibrant, eye-catching colors for this new Apple Watch SE model. Imagine bright hues like neon green, blue, pink, and yellow—colors that will appeal to kids and teenagers alike.
According to reports, the watch could be a perfect companion for students, especially in schools where smartphones are being increasingly banned during class hours. The watch’s cellular connectivity would enable kids to stay connected with their parents and friends without needing a full smartphone, making it an attractive and practical option for families.
Plastic Pose Quality Concerns, But Apple Is Moving Forward
Shifting from metal to plastic may raise concerns about durability and build quality. After all, Apple users are accustomed to the company’s premium designs. However, according to Gurman, Apple is working hard to ensure that the plastic Apple Watch SE maintains high-quality standards. The development has faced some challenges related to maintaining build quality, but Apple is expected to resolve these issues as it transitions to using titanium for its higher-end models.
If Apple succeeds in balancing affordability and durability, this could be a game-changer for the company in its bid to capture a younger audience.
The Power Behind the Plastic: Processor Upgrades
The Apple Watch SE (2022) is powered by the dual-core Apple S8 SiP, the same processor found in the more expensive Apple Watch Series 8. This makes the SE an excellent option for users who want solid performance without the premium price tag.
The upcoming plastic SE model is expected to feature a processor jump, although it’s unclear which chip Apple will use. While the new processor is still under wraps, it could provide a significant boost in performance, making the SE model faster and more efficient for everyday tasks like tracking fitness, receiving notifications, and even making calls via cellular.
How Does It Compare to Apple’s Premium Models?
While the plastic version of the Apple Watch SE is expected to be more affordable, it will lack some of the premium features found in the higher-end Apple Watch Series models. For instance, Always-On Display, sapphire crystal glass, and ECG readings might not make the cut for this budget-friendly model. However, it’s expected to retain core functionalities like fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, and fall detection, making it a solid option for those who don’t need all the bells and whistles.
The shift to plastic for the SE lineup also aligns with Apple’s strategy of using titanium for its top-tier watches, such as the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which was recently launched with a titanium Milanese loop band. This clear segmentation between the premium and budget models allows Apple to cater to a wider range of consumers.
Expected Launch Date and Pricing
According to sources, the plastic-bodied Apple Watch SE is still in development, with a potential launch slated for 2025. As for pricing, the current Apple Watch SE (2022) is priced at around $359 (Rs. 29,900 in India), so we can expect the plastic version to be even more affordable, possibly under $300.
If Apple succeeds in bringing down the price while offering a solid feature set, the plastic Apple Watch SE could become a popular choice for parents looking to provide their kids with a safe, practical device, as well as for users who want a capable smartwatch without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts: Is the Plastic Apple Watch SE the Future of Affordable Wearables?
The rumored plastic Apple Watch SE could be a bold move for Apple, especially as it seeks to broaden its appeal to younger audiences and budget-conscious consumers. While premium materials will remain a hallmark of Apple’s higher-end devices, the potential for a colorful, affordable smartwatch could be a game-changer in the wearables market.
With a processor upgrade on the horizon and the possibility of vibrant color options, the plastic Apple Watch SE is definitely a product to watch out for in 2025.
