A third-generation Apple Watch SE, sporting a “new look,” will be released later this year, according to Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman.
Gurman‘s comments came in his latest Power On newsletter. Gurman said the redesigned Apple Watch SE is one of numerous new products that Apple plans to launch in 2025, but he did not share any specific design details.
In the second half of 2025, the company will have its usual major announcements — highlighted by new iPhones and Apple Watches.
Let’s start with the Apple Watch. A fresh version of the lower-end SE model will sport a new look, though the Series 11 and Ultra 3 models will probably stay roughly the same. In any case, the most exciting news will be new features. The Ultra 3 will get satellite connectivity and 5G RedCap network access, and it’s likely that high-blood-pressure detection comes to both the Ultra and Series models.
In August, Gurman said that it is “sounding increasingly likely” that the next-generation Apple Watch SE models could boast a chassis made of a rigid plastic material in place of the aluminum material used currently. Using plastic would keep costs down for the lowest-priced Apple Watch, and could also appeal to parents who are considering purchasing an Apple Watch SE for their children
Using plastic would also allow Apple to offer the Apple Watch SE in multiple bright colors, something that is not possible with aluminum. Apple used a plastic housing for its iPhone 5c, which was available in blue, yellow, pink, and green colors. The company could do something similar with the Apple Watch SE, making it more attractive to kids. Using a plastic chassis would also help differentiate the Apple Watch SE from the higher-price Apple Watch models.
The current Apple Watch SE sells for $250. Shifting to a plastic shell for the SE could allow Apple to offer the wearable at a lower price point to better compete with more reasonably priced smartwatches offered by other companies.
In addition to the design changes, the next Apple Watch SE is likely to offer a new chip, for faster performance compared to the current model.
