Apple first introduced the iPhone SE in 2016, offering a more affordable way to access the full iOS experience. The SE branding later extended to the Apple Watch, providing a budget-friendly smartwatch based on older designs. Now, with the iPhone SE discontinued in favor of the new iPhone 16e, speculation grows over whether the next Apple Watch SE update will be called the SE 3 or adopt the “11e” naming convention.
The SE Formula: Performance Over Design
Apple’s SE devices have historically delivered flagship-level performance in older designs. The iPhone SE 3, for example, packed the same A15 Bionic chip as the high-end iPhone 13 Pro but retained thick bezels, a physical Home button, and a single rear camera. Similarly, the Apple Watch SE 2 shared the S8 chip with the Series 8 but lacked premium features like an Ultra Wideband chip, ECG support, and fast charging.
The appeal of SE models lies in their reliability—they run the latest software smoothly, receive long-term updates, and provide core functionality at a lower cost. For many users, a smartwatch that handles notifications, fitness tracking, and basic health monitoring without lag is all they need.
The New “e” Approach: Modern Design at a Higher Cost
With the iPhone 16e, Apple has shifted its strategy. Instead of recycling an old design, the 16e features a more modern chassis—though still a few years behind the latest flagship—along with the newest processor. However, this upgrade comes at a cost: the starting price has jumped from 599, pushing it out of the budget category.
If Apple applies the same logic to the Apple Watch, a hypothetical “11e” model could adopt the S11 chip and larger case sizes (41mm and 45mm) from the Series 7. It might also support newer software-based features like sleep apnea detection and on-device Siri with health data access. Yet, it would likely exclude advanced hardware-dependent functions such as ECG and temperature tracking, positioning it as a scaled-down Series 11 rather than a true budget alternative.
The Case for Keeping the SE Branding
Recent rumors suggest the Apple Watch SE 3 may feature a plastic case to reduce costs, potentially dropping its price below $200. This would make it a stronger competitor against budget wearables from rival brands. Unlike the iPhone 16e, which sacrifices affordability for a more modern look, the Apple Watch SE 3 seems poised to remain a true entry-level option by prioritizing cost-cutting materials over premium design elements.
Why Apple Shouldn’t Abandon the SE Model
The iPhone 16e’s higher price leaves a gap in Apple’s lineup for a genuinely affordable smartphone. Similarly, if Apple shifts the Apple Watch SE to an “e” model with a higher price tag, it risks alienating budget-conscious buyers. A stripped-down SE 3 with a plastic body and core features at 300.
For now, the smartest move for Apple would be to keep the SE branding for its budget devices—ensuring affordability remains the priority, not just a slightly cheaper version of a premium product.
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