Apple is preparing to unveil its latest smartwatch offering, likely dubbed the Apple Watch SE 3, at its anticipated event on March 12, 2024. While the device has been widely referred to as the SE 3, there is speculation that Apple may opt for a different name. This shift could reflect broader changes within the company’s product naming conventions, particularly following the abandonment of the SE branding in the iPhone lineup.
The upcoming Apple Watch SE is expected to feature a light refresh, introducing the new S11 chipset. This upgrade promises moderate performance enhancements, moving the device away from the current S8 chip, which utilizes cores from the A13 Bionic chip. The S11 is anticipated to incorporate technology from the more advanced S9 and S10 chips, meaning it will likely draw from the A16 Bionic chip architecture.
Potential Design Changes and New Features
In addition to the chipset upgrade, there are rumors that the Apple Watch SE 3 may present new display sizes of approximately 1.6 inches and 1.8 inches for its two models. This change could signal a departure from the design language established with the Apple Watch Series 4, aligning more closely with the aesthetics of the Apple Watch Series 7. While these possibilities remain speculative, they follow a trend of Apple refreshing its design elements, especially with the recent introduction of the Apple Watch Series 10.
Another intriguing aspect of the upcoming release is the potential for a plastic casing. If this is accurate, it could lead to a more accessible price point for consumers. The combination of a new chipset and a potentially lower-cost material could position the Apple Watch SE as an attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers.
Will the SE Branding Continue?
The question of whether the “SE” branding will persist is significant, especially considering Apple’s recent decisions regarding product naming. With the original Apple Watch SE, Apple opted to equip it with an older chipset compared to the more advanced Apple Watch Series 6. Presently, however, both models are expected to share the same chipset, which raises the possibility that Apple might transition the SE line to a new naming convention.
Switching from Apple Watch SE to a name such as Apple Watch Series 11e could harmonize with Apple’s strategy to streamline naming across its product line, particularly as the company aligns its operating systems to version 26 this year. The move towards simplicity in naming could enhance brand recognition and consumer understanding, although the likelihood of this change for the Apple Watch Ultra remains uncertain.
As anticipation builds for the event, the question remains: will Apple phase out the “Apple Watch SE” branding? The upcoming announcement will likely clarify Apple’s direction for its smartwatch offerings, and consumers are eager to see how these developments unfold.
