Upcoming Apple Watch SE 3 - Leaks, Features, and Release Date Predictions

Apple Watch SE 3 is on the way! The third-generation version of Apple’s budget-friendly smartwatch has reportedly entered mass production, with its new display already in the works. It’s expected to debut this September alongside the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3. Marking the first major update in three years for the SE lineup, the new Apple Watch SE 3 won’t be just a minor refresh - it’s likely to bring practical and eye-catching upgrades. Rumors suggest a redesigned look and a shift to eco-friendly recycled plastic for the casing, aligning with Apple’s carbon-neutral goals and possibly making it the company’s first smartwatch to highlight sustainability.

Beyond the new materials, the Apple Watch SE 3 is also expected to offer a wider range of stylish color options, aiming to appeal to a younger audience. While it remains the most affordable Apple Watch in the lineup, this year’s update could elevate its capabilities and overall user experience. Whether you’re buying your first Apple Watch or looking for a smart everyday companion with better value, the upcoming SE 3 is shaping up to be a compelling choice. In the following sections, we’ll break down its rumored features, release timeline, and expected pricing.

More Affordable - Possibly the Most Cost-Effective Apple Watch Yet

The pricing strategy for the Apple Watch SE 3 has drawn a lot of attention. According to multiple sources, the starting price is expected to fall between $199 and $229, potentially making it even more affordable than the previous SE 2. While global inflation and rising tariffs could drive up production costs, Apple may still be able to keep the price under $250 by optimizing materials-such as exploring a plastic casing-and improving supply chain efficiency, maintaining its position as a high-performance entry-level model.

For budget-conscious users, students, or first-time smartwatch buyers, the SE 3 could strike an ideal balance between price and features. If Apple manages to hit the $199 price point, this model may become the most cost-effective Apple Watch in the brand’s history.

Design - UpgradeLightweight Durability, Plastic Rumors Set Aside

The Apple Watch SE 3 continues to feature a durable aluminum case, striking a balance between lightweight comfort and everyday toughness. While earlier rumors suggested Apple might switch to a plastic body with vibrant colors to appeal to younger users and children, recent reports indicate that this plan has likely been scrapped due to concerns over cost efficiency and product quality.

By retaining its metal build, Apple ensures the SE 3 maintains a premium feel, while colorful bands add a playful touch to suit entry-level users’ tastes. Though the design doesn’t radically change, subtle refinements and a clearer focus on its target audience make the Apple Watch SE 3 Gen’s appearance refreshingly relevant.

Display Refresh - Always-On & Larger 41/45mm Screens

The Apple Watch SE 3 is set to receive its most significant display upgrade yet. For the first time, it’s expected to support an always-on display, paired with slimmer bezels for a more immersive viewing experience. The screen sizes are likely to increase to 1.6 inches and 1.8 inches, corresponding to new 41mm and 45mm case sizes. This means a roughly 20% larger display area compared to the SE 2, making it easier to check notifications, health data, or the time-without needing to raise your wrist.

While the overall form factor remains slim and lightweight, the SE 3’s display experience will align more closely with the design language of the higher-end Series 7, Apple Watch Series 8, and Apple Watch Series 9 models. With mass production already underway, this display upgrade is shaping up to be a major highlight for the Apple Watch SE 3 Gen - especially for users seeking great value without compromising on everyday functionality.

Performance Boost - Powered by S10 for Faster, Smarter Experience

The Apple Watch SE 3 is set for a major internal upgrade with the expected introduction of the new S10 chip. This marks a significant leap in performance-up to 30% faster than the previous generation-making everyday interactions like swiping through watch faces and launching apps noticeably smoother.

Even more impressively, SE 3 may support on-device Siri for the first time, allowing users to ask about the weather or set alarms without needing an internet connection. This not only improves speed but also enhances privacy. With better power efficiency, battery life could extend up to 20 hours. Altogether, these upgrades bring the Apple Watch SE 3 Gen much closer to premium-level performance while retaining its accessible price point.

Health Upgrade - Smarter Tracking with New Sleep Monitoring

Apple Watch SE 3 is expected to bring practical improvements to health tracking. While it may still lack advanced features like ECG and temperature sensors, the addition of sleep apnea monitoring is a standout upgrade. This new feature can analyze nighttime breathing patterns without requiring extra hardware-helping users detect potential health issues early.

Core features like heart rate monitoring and fall detection are also set to be more accurate. For fitness enthusiasts, SE 3 introduces new workout modes such as golf and hiking, with improved GPS precision for better tracking during outdoor activities. Water resistance is expected to reach 50 meters, making it ideal for swimming, surfing, or even showering. Some rumors even suggest AI-powered health insights, which - if true - would bring an unprecedented level of intelligent tracking to Apple’s most affordable watch.

System Upgrade - watchOS 12 Brings a Fresh Look and Smarter Interactions

Apple Watch SE 3 will come preloaded with the all-new watchOS 12, offering a smoother, more refined user experience. Inspired by visionOS, the updated interface features a sleek, semi-transparent glass aesthetic and fluid swipe gestures for a more immersive feel.

Deeper integration with the iPhone introduces features like the new “Health Summary,” combining daily health and fitness data to give users a clearer view of their well-being. Paired with a faster chip and enhanced software, the SE 3 elevates the overall experience-while still staying true to its affordable roots. You can also check watchOS 9, WatchOS 11 and watchOS 10 vs 11 to these software differences.