The Apple Watch Series 8 is the most anticipated wearable of the year. There are rumors that the device could feature a temperature sensor and other improvements to fitness and health tracking.
But a new report suggests the Apple Watch Se 2 should also be on consumers’ radars despite an imminent price hike. This new mid-range Apple Watch will reportedly feature higher specs than its predecessor, including support for ECG.
Apple Watch SE 2 price hike
A recent report claims that Apple may discontinue the Apple Watch Series 3 soon. For anyone considering a budget Apple wearable, the Apple Watch SE is a better option.
The 40mm model of the Apple Watch SE starts at $279 — not including discounts from retailers. That’s $80 more than the Apple Watch Series 3, though it also brings better specs. Consumers get a larger display, a faster chip, support for cellular connectivity and better health features — including better heart sensors, support for fall detection and noise monitoring.
If Apple plans to delist the Series 3, it would make sense for the current SE model to remain in the Apple Watch lineup once the Series 8 and SE 2 models arrive. That would mean the current Apple Watch SE could get a price cut as a result.
A new report points to a whistleblower claiming that the Apple Watch SE 2 will cost more than before. Among them, the 40mm model may start at $299. If accurate, the 44mm should be $329, or $20 more than the current model.
Apple Watch Series 7 on your wrist
The price increase for the Apple Watch SE 2 is no surprise. The current economic situation has led to higher prices for various products. Some iPhone 14 models may also be more expensive than their predecessors.
But the spec upgrades Apple is preparing for the new SE models will reportedly make the price hike affordable. It is reported that the Apple Watch SE will use the same dual-core S7 SiP chip as the current Series 7. This is a major upgrade for a mid-range watch, putting it on par with current high-end models.
Other spec improvements include an always-on display, better audio, and ECG support. The ECG feature is a feature that Apple introduced in the Apple Watch Series 4, and it has been found on every new high-end model since then.
If this information is accurate, the price of the Apple Watch SE 2 will be more acceptable. Instead of $399, users will get the Apple Watch Series 7 experience for as little as $299. According to the iPhone 14 series, Apple may release the Apple Watch Series 8 and SE 2 in mid-September.